Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday reiterated his administration’s commitment to further collaboration with captains of industry, the private sector, and artisans to create employment opportunities for students who have acquired skills through the State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB).
Governor Sanwo-Olu made this statement during the graduation ceremony of over 2,000 students from five Government Technical Colleges in Lagos State, held at De-Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja. He emphasized that this commitment aligns with his administration’s dedication to education and technology.
The governor urged the graduates to look beyond current challenges and strive for excellence, using the skills they have acquired to compete favorably with their global counterparts in various vocational fields.
“Today, we celebrate not only the academic and technical achievements of over 2,000 graduates but also the remarkable potential they represent for the future of Lagos State and Nigeria,” he said.
“The significance of technical and vocational education cannot be overstated. Institutions like LASTVEB equip young people with practical, industry-relevant skills that meet the demands of an evolving economy. Across trades such as engineering, construction, ICT, business, and the creative arts, our graduates have acquired the tools not just to participate in the workforce but to transform it through innovation and dedication.”
“This achievement aligns perfectly with our administration’s commitment under the Education and Technology pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda. By investing in the skills and capabilities of our youth, we are building the foundation for a prosperous, inclusive, and self-reliant society.”
“Beyond these individual accomplishments, technical and vocational education drives community development, reduces unemployment, and ensures our graduates are competitive globally. For instance, technical education has been shown to increase graduation rates, improve employability, and foster entrepreneurship. Many of our graduates today will step into the world as job creators, while others will fill critical roles in high-demand industries, strengthening Lagos State’s economic position both nationally and internationally.”
“This event also highlights the importance of collaboration between government, industries, and educational institutions. Through our partnerships, we have ensured that the curriculum remains aligned with current industry standards and that our students receive hands-on, experiential learning,” the governor added.
Governor Sanwo-Olu congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to use their skills for societal transformation. He also expressed his appreciation to the management and staff of LASTVEB, parents, and stakeholders for their tireless contributions to this achievement.
“As you step into the next phase of your lives, remember that your skills are powerful tools—not only for personal success but for societal transformation,” he said. “I congratulate all our graduates and thank the management and staff of LASTVEB, parents, and stakeholders for their unwavering support. Together, we are shaping a future where technical education is celebrated and valued as a cornerstone of sustainable development.”
The State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Tolani Alli-Balogun, in his remarks, similarly urged the graduates to think deeply, aim higher, and strive for excellence in their careers, contributing to the nation’s economic growth. He noted that no nation develops without a robust technical education system to advance skills and knowledge.
“I know that turning your dreams into reality is not always easy. It requires hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It demands that you be focused, disciplined, and committed to your goals. It requires you to take risks, face your fears, overcome them, and push beyond your comfort zones.”
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“Our dedicated and amiable Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has created leverage through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as the Ministry of Wealth Creation, to further empower you and help you reach greater heights in your careers. This will allow you to integrate into the labor market, become self-employed, and eventually become employers of labor,” Alli-Balogun said.
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB), Ms. Moronke Azeez, also spoke, highlighting how Sanwo-Olu’s administration is addressing unemployment challenges through various initiatives, producing skilled technicians to foster technical development and create more job opportunities for youths, making them self-reliant.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Miss Daniella Okpako expressed gratitude to the state government for its unwavering commitment to advancing technical education in Lagos. She also advocated for scholarships for deserving students to enable them to further their education and build on the skills they have acquired.
During the event, David Uchendu, a Mechanical Engineering Craft Practice student from Government Technical College, Ikotun, was named Best Overall, while Daniel Salami from Government Technical College, Agidingbi, who studied Instrument Mechanic Works, was recognized as Best in Innovation.
Ifeoma Abalogun from Government Technical College, Epe, who majored in Painting and Decoration, and Daniel Okpako, who studied Blocklaying, Bricklaying, and Concreting from Government Technical College, Ikotun, were also honored as Best Female in Construction.
Other top performers included Benedict Wisdom (Electrical Installation and Maintenance Works), Oluwapelumi Adedeji (Garment Making), Babatunde Boyejo (Electrical Installation and Maintenance Works), Moyosore Odofin (Instrument Mechanic Works), and Grace Arebisola (Garment Making), who were recognized as Best Students from the five Government Technical Colleges in Ado-Soba, Agidingbi, Epe, Ikorodu, and Ikotun, respectively.
