In its continued drive for inclusive social development, the Lagos State Government has made significant strides in youth empowerment, disability inclusion, and child welfare regulation over the past year, according to the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.
At the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, revealed a multifaceted impact across various sectors affecting vulnerable populations.
On child welfare, the Commissioner disclosed that 68 orphanages were fully registered and 45 others granted provisional approval after thorough screening to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for children. This brings the total approved facilities to 113, aimed at complementing state-run orphanages.
He noted that despite interest from private individuals, the Ministry remains vigilant, stressing that “we are determined to jealously guard this space against quackery and malpractice. The value of life far outweighs registration fees.”
As part of its regulatory role, the Ministry shut down four orphanages found to have violated operating standards. These facilities will remain closed pending investigations, with appropriate sanctions to follow.
Meanwhile, in the area of youth development, over 85,000 young Lagosians were empowered in the last year through digital training, vocational skills, leadership programs, and entrepreneurship support.
Through the LAG-UP Project in partnership with GFA Technologies, 45,806 youths enrolled in tech and creative skill programs, with 23,305 earning certifications. Additionally, 4,042 youths were trained in trades ranging from shoemaking and carpentry to software development.
Youth entrepreneurship also received a boost through the Amplifier Business Clinic, where 10 entrepreneurs received a total of ₦10 million in grants. The state also sponsored 12 youth ambassadors on a study tour to Queen’s University, Canada, to enhance their global outlook and leadership skills.
Under the IBILE Youth Academy, 500 young leaders were trained in civic responsibility and leadership as part of efforts to prepare future decision-makers.
For Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) empowered over 1,000 individuals through financial aid, business tools, health care support, and inclusion programs.
Interventions included ₦30 million disbursed to 150 elderly and 100 vulnerable PWDs, while disability advocacy groups like Dyslexia Nigeria and the Down Syndrome Association also received support.
LASODA facilitated business registration and vocational tool distribution—such as sewing machines, freezers, and cookers—for 100 PWD entrepreneurs. Civil servants with disabilities were given motorized wheelchairs, laptops with JAWS software, and prosthetics.
Additional efforts included the rehabilitation of inclusive schools, provision of learning aids, oral care for children with disabilities, and creative platforms like talent exhibitions and Ability Expo.
Mr Ogunlende emphasized that these initiatives reflect the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, which prioritizes social inclusion, equity, and empowerment across all demographics.
“Our children are being protected, our youths empowered, and our PWDs equipped to thrive,” he said. “This is how we build a Lagos that truly leaves no one behind.”