The Nation Newspaper

Tag: lagos

  • ‘Lagos is fantastic place for our expansion plans’

    ‘Lagos is fantastic place for our expansion plans’

    The International Workplace Group (IWG), has announced the opening of two state-of-the-art flexible workspaces in Lagos to meet the rising demand for hybrid workers.

    This move is part of the drive by IWG to meet the increasing demand for top-class flexible working space in the area, from businesses and professionals seeking flexible, hybrid work solutions.

    IWG Chief Executive Officer/Founder, Mark Dixon, said that the move aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernize its infrastructure and promote business growth in Lagos, which remains a key destination for international investment.

    He noted that the move aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernize its infrastructure and promote business growth in Lagos, which remains a key destination for international investment.

    Read Also: FG earmarks N250bn for Lagos-Abuja rail project in 2025 budget

    According to Dixon, as Lagos is often considered the economic hub of West Africa, there has a dramatic shift in workplace culture.

    He added that with more companies adopting flexible working policies, there is a growing need for modern workspaces that allow employees to work productively while avoiding long commutes.

    “As an important business hub Lagos is a fantastic place for us to boost our expansion plans. The need for high-quality flexible workspaces continues to soar as hybrid working becomes the new normal,” he said.

    Dixon said that the workplace model is proven to increase productivity and allows for businesses to scale up or down at significantly reduced costs.

  • Lagos advises women to prioritise healthy living

    Lagos advises women to prioritise healthy living

    Lagos State government has advised women to prioritise their health, to ensure well-being and success in their endeavours.

    The advice was given during the “2024 Women Assembly for Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) in Lagos State” at LTV Blue Roof, Alausa.

    Wife of the State Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said the programme was designed to improve the living standards of women through sensitisation campaigns for health and socio-economic growth.

    Sanwo-Olu called for unity in the advocacy for women’s rights and opportunities that would benefit women from all strata of life.

    She said the opportunities should include tools and resources that would enable women, including artisans, widows, and those living with disabilities, to thrive.

    Sanwo-Olu urged women to pay attention to their mental health and ensure they go for regular check-ups.

    Read Also: First Lady’s empowerment programme provides for the elderly

    She further urged women to guard against drug abuse, not only for their children but for other youngsters within their communities.

    Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Mrs Bolaji Dada, said women’s health is foundational to their overall well-being and success and an essential factor for them to thrive.

    “A healthy woman is empowered to pursue her dreams, take care of her family, and contribute meaningfully to society.

    “We must all take the necessary steps to care for our bodies, seek early detection for diseases, and adopt healthy habits that will sustain us for the long term,” Mrs Dada said.

    The commissioner said WAPA had included a free medical screening, to enable participants to check their health status.

    The screenings included blood pressure and sugar level checks, eye tests, and cervical and breast cancer screening.

  • ‘Lagos is fantastic place for our expansion plans’

    ‘Lagos is fantastic place for our expansion plans’

    The International Workplace Group (IWG), has announced the opening of two state-of-the-art flexible workspaces in Lagos to meet the rising demand for hybrid workers.

    This move is part of the drive by IWG to meet the increasing demand for top-class flexible working space in the area, from businesses and professionals seeking flexible, hybrid work solutions.

    IWG Chief Executive Officer/Founder, Mark Dixon, said that the move aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernize its infrastructure and promote business growth in Lagos, which remains a key destination for international investment.

    Read Also: First Lady’s empowerment programme provides for the elderly

    He noted that the move aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernize its infrastructure and promote business growth in Lagos, which remains a key destination for international investment.

    According to Dixon, as Lagos is often considered the economic hub of West Africa, there has a dramatic shift in workplace culture.

    He added that with more companies adopting flexible working policies, there is a growing need for modern workspaces that allow employees to work productively while avoiding long commutes.

    “As an important business hub Lagos is a fantastic place for us to boost our expansion plans. The need for high-quality flexible workspaces continues to soar as hybrid working becomes the new normal,” he said.

    Dixon said that the workplace model is proven to increase productivity and allows for businesses to scale up or down at significantly reduced costs.

  • Lagos eyes $58.5b remote work market for residents

    Lagos eyes $58.5b remote work market for residents

    The Lagos State Government is actively promoting the exploration of job opportunities within the global remote workplace services market, which is projected to reach $58.5 billion by 2027.

    According to a study by Owl Labs, 16 percent of companies worldwide operate on a fully remote basis. Furthermore, the  Rise of Global Digital Jobs anticipates that by 2030, the number of global digital jobs that can be performed remotely will increase by approximately 25 percent, reaching around 92 million.

    Speaking with journalists after the onboarding of over 200 beneficiaries of a specialised ICT training organised by the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment in collaboration with Mactay Limited, Commissioner Hon Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe emphasised the government’s commitment to providing residents with access to various services, including training, skills recognition, and job search assistance.

    He encouraged young people to be proactive in learning about new technologies, staying updated, and constantly honing their skills.

    The Commissioner reiterated that the government intends to enhance professional skills and improve employment opportunities for Lagosians through various active employment measures.

    His words: “The world we live in today is driven by rapid advancement in technology and it is crucial that we equip ourselves with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in this digital era. This specialised programme has been designed with a clear vision that is to empower participants with necessary tools and training that will enable them to harness the power of information and communications technology.”

    According to him, the specialised intensive four -month training course, prepares job-ready IT professionals for local and international certifications provided by Microsoft and Adobe to work at the same level as engineers in the US and other major tech markets.

    He believes the participants will form the backbone of the future tech industry.

    He assured that the government will increase the number of beneficiaries next year.

    He reiterated the government’s focus on having young people at the forefront of innovation and technological changes, as it is essential for driving economic breakthroughs, helping the country transition out of the middle-income trap.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Dr Biodun Augustine Onayele noted that the economy is growing quickly, and digital transformation is playing a significant role.

    Read Also: Financial creativity places Ogun as topmost IGR state after Lagos, says Abiodun

    According to him, the government is intensifying efforts to bridge the gap between academic training and industry needs.

    The training, he explained, supports the government‘s digital transformation plans to increase the state’s digital readiness and competitiveness.

    The Director, Business  Development, Mactay Consulting, Otunba Tunde Rotimi said Lagos State Specialised ICT Training Programme aimed to provide an opportunity for 200 unemployed youths to acquire global cutting-edge Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills, and  enhance their employability prospect.

    The Training Programme, he noted, is a four -month programme focused on Data Science and Full Stack Web Development.

    Participants will earn internationally recognised certifications as Information Technology Specialists and Adobe Certified Professionals.

  • Lagos distributes equipment to 1,500 entrepreneurs

    Lagos distributes equipment to 1,500 entrepreneurs

    • By Ebube Ojukwu

    Lagos State Government yesterday lifted 1,500 aspiring entrepreneurs with tools, equipment and grants, to promote economic sustainability.

    The state government also gave N50,000 each to 200 women.

    The beneficiaries received the support during the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) WAPA in Lagos.

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said building a foundation for self-reliance, boosting economic growth and unleashing the potential of women, irrespective of their background, would help transform their lives.

    The governor said success stories from the first edition of MESI encouraged him to approve the second phase of the programme.

    “We have found the significance of this initiative in fostering sustainable development and economic empowerment. It speaks volumes about our commitment to creating opportunities, reducing poverty, and nurturing the entrepreneurial skills that define our people,” he said.

    Sanwo-Olu said through skills acquisition, capacity building and financial empowerment, the state was creating a future where prosperity would be a reality.

    Commissioner of WAPA, Mrs Bolaji Dada, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for his confidence in the potential of women and his support in ensuring they are empowered and economically sustained.

    She said the programme was a beacon of hope for many aspiring entrepreneurs in the state.

    Read Also: Tinubu focused on delivering campaign promises, not 2027 election — Bwala

    Mrs Dada said that about 70 per cent of the beneficiaries were graduates of WAPA’s skills acquisition centres.

    She said the tools and equipment, which had been carefully chosen to meet the diverse needs of the beneficiaries, would help support their businesses.

    The tools and equipment include stoning and sewing machines, pepper grinders, hair dryers, cake mixers, standing facial steamers and aluminum cutting machines.

    Others are barbing kits, sterilisers and generators, two-phase burners, 12.5kg cylinders and agricultural items including fertilizers and seeds.

    “These valuable assets symbolise not just tools of trade but instruments of transformation, designed to enable you to grow your businesses and uplift your communities. You have been entrusted with these resources because we believe in your potential to create, innovate and excel. I urge you all to seize this moment, to embrace the opportunities laid before you, and to work tirelessly toward achieving your entrepreneurial dreams,” she said.

    The commissioner urged them to persevere, be dedicated and be willing to adapt and learn in order to succeed in their businesses.

  • Henkel inspires young scientists with hands-on learning in Lagos

    Henkel inspires young scientists with hands-on learning in Lagos

    Henkel Nigeria, a subsidiary of the renowned German multinational Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, organized an engaging science training for pupils of Aanuoluwapo Primary School and Progressive Primary School in Agege, Lagos, in celebration of International Children’s Day.  

    The initiative was part of Henkel’s global educational programme, Forscherwelt (Researchers’ World), aimed at sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of scientists. 

    Facilitated by Henkel employees and Ms. Adebayo-Soliu Modinah from the Girls and Women Empowerment and Technological Organisation (GWETO), the training combined practical experiments with interactive discussions to simplify scientific concepts and create a fun learning experience for the children.  

    Speaking on the initiative, Henkel Nigeria’s Managing Director, Rajat Kapur, emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering young learners through education.  

    “Through our Forscherwelt Initiative, we aim to inspire the next generation of scientists by making learning both fun and impactful. The training sessions at Aanuoluwapo and Progressive Primary Schools are part of our broader mission to empower young minds with knowledge that extends beyond the classroom. We are proud to collaborate with GWETO to make this vision a reality,” he said. 

    The pupils eagerly participated in various experiments, which sparked their curiosity and deepened their understanding of science in everyday life. 

    Teachers and administrators from the participating schools expressed their gratitude for Henkel’s impactful efforts. 

    The Forscherwelt Initiative, the MD noted, exemplifies the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to making education accessible and exciting. By empowering young learners with knowledge and practical skills, Henkel, he reaffirmed is living up to its motto, “Pioneers at heart for the good of generations.”  

  • Lagos, NITDA, Nibox, others win NiRA awards

    Lagos, NITDA, Nibox, others win NiRA awards

    The Lagos State government, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Galaxy Backbone and others at the weekend emerged winners at 7th .ng Awards, organized by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA).

    The event, held last week in Lagos at the Muson Center Onikan recognized excellence and innovation in various categories, across private, government, and individual.

    With: “The Innovators of 2024” as its theme, it was organised to recognize digital innovation being done on the .ng domain across various sectors including banking, agritech, at the state-level, in the media space among others.” This platform not only recognizes excellence but also actively promotes the .ng brand, contributing significantly to the growth of Nigeria’s internet space.

    The award night opened with the General Category in which Nibox Payment won Company of the Year—the biggest award of the night.

    FairMoney, Lagos State, Galaxy Backbone, University of Nigeria, The Guardian and others were winners on the night.

    The two-day event, which commenced with the Tech Convergence 1.0 conference, featured insightful discussions on emerging technologies, digital trends, and the role of the .ng domain in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.

    Read Also: CBN Awards OPay for Financial Inclusion Innovation

    Industry leaders, policymakers, and tech enthusiasts gathered to explore opportunities and challenges in the digital space. It also comes with a fireside chat by the Commissioner of Innovation, Science and Technology, Lagos State, Olatunbosun Alake on “Shaping Tomorrow: The Role of State-Level Collaboration in Building a Tech-Driven Future”.

    He emphasized the crucial role of public-private partnerships in driving digital growth. He specifically highlighted Lagos State’s efforts in leveraging technology for the benefit of its citizens, and also cited how government is funding innovative ideas of the youth in Lagos

    Other notable winners include FairMoney: .ng Fintech Company of the Year; Lagos State: Digital Innovation in State Government; National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), which won Digital Innovation in Federal Government: Digital Innovation in Federal Government and Jumia Nigeria: Best E-Commerce Website/Portal.

    Among the notable recipients of the NiRA Presidential Award were GO54, recognized as the Best ccTLD Registrar for their exceptional service and contribution to the .ng domain; National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), honored as the Most Supportive Partner for their unwavering support of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem; Mrs. Eyitayo Iyortim, President AfTLD for her contributions to the internet space and Gbenga Sesan of Paradigm Initiative, awarded for his tireless advocacy and commitment to child protection online.

    Special recognition awards were also presented to organizations and individuals for their contributions to Nigeria’s internet space, including Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani of Digital Realty, Mrs. Ibukun Odusote, Chairperson of the NiRA Board of Trustees, and the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), among others.

  • ‘Lagos govt committed to public safety’

    ‘Lagos govt committed to public safety’

    Lagosians have been admonished to report emergencies, security threats, or accidents, especially during the yuletide, through the toll-free emergency numbers 767 or 112, for immediate response and assistance.

    General Manager of the Lagos State Command and Control Centre Femi Giwa, while addressing a news conference in his office at Alausa, Ikeja, reiterated the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to ensuring public safety.

    Giwa also unveiled his mandate and strategic work plan to reposition the Centre for enhanced public safety and improved incident response.

    He restated the governor’s efforts to ensure a robust operational framework and more efficient governance, adding that part of his strategic Work Plan includes infrastructure upgrade and introduction of cutting-edge technology for efficient and improved response time to incidents, enhanced coordination as well as increased capacity for data handling.

    Read Also: Lagos sensitises council workers on contributory pension scheme

    The general manager added that the work plan will also address the management of emerging threats such as cyber security, climate-related disasters and urban security issues, among others.

    He emphasised that the work plan is in alignment with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda and vision for the Centre, aimed at improving response efficiency, strengthening inter-agency collaboration and integrating State-of-the-Art Technology for public safety. 

    Since assuming office, the general manager has taken on key initiatives, including a review of existing processes, introduction of innovative systems for incident management, and stakeholder engagement to foster seamless collaboration among emergency responders in the state.

    Giwa assured the people that the Sanwo-Olu administration is resolute in its commitment to the safety and security of all residents during the festive season as the Centre would be fully operational and on red alert to respond swiftly to any distress call.

  • Lagos Govt. boosts CNG initiative for sustainable energy

    Lagos Govt. boosts CNG initiative for sustainable energy

    Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative in the state.

    Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance at the Lagos State Government Pilot Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Vehicle Conversion Training, organised by IBILE Oil & Gas Corporation (IOGC)  at the Lagos Bus Service Limited Workshop, Yaba, Lagos.

    The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the move was part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create job opportunities.

    He emphasised the importance of adopting CNG as an alternative fuel.

    Sanwo-Olu noted that the initiative was not just an energy solution, but a declaration of his administration’s resolve to embrace cleaner, safer, and more affordable energy systems.

    The governor highlighted the benefits of CNG, including its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and provide a cost-effective transportation alternative.

    He also emphasised the state government’s commitment to demonstrating its resolve in three pivotal areas of the Greater Lagos Vision, which included energy security, environmental sustainability, and job creation.

    Sanwo-Olu commended the IBILE Oil & Gas Corporation for its role in championing the initiative.

    He urged participants to seize the opportunity and become ambassadors of change, carrying the message of cleaner energy to every corner of the state.

    “The Lagos State Government’s commitment to expanding the CNG initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy and environment.

    “Transitioning just 20 per cent of our transportation fleet to CNG could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by tens of thousands of metric tonnes annually, significantly improving urban air quality.

    “This is the scale of impact we are committed to achieving,” he said.

    The governor called on all stakeholders, private sector partners, industry experts, and government agencies to collaborate with the state government in scaling the programme.

    He said: “The journey to clean energy and economic empowerment cannot be undertaken alone.

    “As the state government continues to invest in the infrastructure, technology, and partnerships necessary to make CNG adoption seamless and scalable, Lagosians can look forward to a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous future.”

    Earlier in her address, the Managing Director, IBILE Oil and Gas, Ms Doyin Akinyanju, said the initiative marked a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards a more sustainable future.

    According to her, the programme focuses on “Training Trainers” and aims to enhance manpower development for CNG vehicle conversions in Lagos State.

    “This will support a seamless transition to cleaner energy and equip local technicians and mechanics with the necessary knowledge and skills to retrofit and convert conventional vehicles to run on CNG safely.”

    The Managing Director disclosed that the training programme would continue till  March 2025, after which the technical partner, Landirenzo, would provide technical support to trained technicians and workshop partners in Lagos State for the next 12 to 18 months.

    She added that CNG vehicle initiative was expected to provide a unique “three-fold” opportunity for Lagos State.

    She noted that it included reducing greenhouse gas emissions, providing a cost-effective alternative to petrol and diesel, and supporting job creation and in-country capacity development.

    “To support the initiative, IBILE Oil and Gas Corporation is set to deliver four CNG refueling stations in Lagos State by the end of March 2025.

    “These stations will be located at strategic locations, including LAMATA Ojota terminal, LAMATA Ajah terminal, LAWMA Ijora Depot, and Yaba.

    “Additionally, 11 more CNG refueling stations are planned to be delivered between the third quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026,” she said

    (NAN)

  • Out-of-school children: Lagos moves to establish more technical colleges

    Out-of-school children: Lagos moves to establish more technical colleges

    By Olufunke Ojo

    The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, has hinted on the establishment of more Government Technical Colleges across the 20 local government areas, to provide opportunities for the increasingly growing population of youths and also reduce Out-of- School children.

    Delivering his opening remarks at the Year 2024 Graduation Ceremony for Technical College Students on Tuesday, the commissioner affirmed that for the current 6-3-3-4 education system to serve the yearning and aspirations of the prevailing   socio-economic, technology and political advancement, the existing five Government Technical Colleges in Agidingbi, Ikeja ; Adesoba, Amuwo-Odofin; Ikotun, Alimosho; Epe and Ikorodu respectively, established over 40 years ago, are grossly inadequate, especially owing to the increasing demand for technical education as best alternative.

    A statement issued by the Deputy Director, Public Affair, Ministry of Basic & Secondary Education Kayode Sutton, quoted the Alli-Balogun as saying that, no nation develops without an articulated and robust technical education in all its entirety, acknowledging the critical factor for Lagos State success stories in the manifest destiny of the T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS Agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the architect and modal of the new Lagos.

    He challenged the over 2000 graduands as they transit from students to skilled professionals, equipped to make meaningful impacts in their chosen fields and in the stimulation of economic growth.

    “As technical and vocational education graduands, you have acquired the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in your chosen careers. However, I want challenge you to think beyond your current circumstances. I want to also encourage you to dream big, to aim higher and to strive for excellence in all that you do,’’ he enthused.

    He praised the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) for its tireless efforts in providing high-quality technical and vocational education to the teeming youths of Lagos State, adding that the board’s commitment to excellence is evident in the calibre of graduands being celebrated at the graduation ceremony.