The United States African Development Foundation (USADF) and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) have strengthened their partnership in order to enhance youth empowerment and stimulate economic growth in Lagos State.
On August 20, 2024, both organizations signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the LSETF office in Lagos, aiming to expand their successful collaboration in promoting youth employment and entrepreneurship.
The signing ceremony was attended by key figures including USADF President/CEO Travis Adkins, Acting Executive Secretary of LSETF Feyisayo Alayande, Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, and representatives from both the government and private sectors. The new MOU marks a continuation and expansion of the existing USADF-LSETF Employability Program, which since 2019, has trained over 10,500 young people—63% of whom are women—in vital skills across various sectors.
The USADF-LSETF Employability Program has successfully provided young Lagosians with training, financial assistance, paid internships, and mentorship opportunities, empowering many to start businesses or secure employment.
Speaking at the ceremony, LSETF’s Executive Secretary (Ag.), Feyisayo Alayande, highlighted the partnership’s impact, noting that over 7,000 beneficiaries have either gained employment or launched their ventures, a clear testament to the program’s success.
USADF President/CEO Travis Adkins expressed pride in the deepening partnership, emphasizing that the renewed MOU not only extends the collaboration but also reinforces a shared commitment to creating opportunities for Lagos youth and fostering sustainable economic development.
The renewed agreement focuses on broadening access to training, enhancing job placement opportunities, and developing innovative solutions to address challenges faced by young people in Lagos.
Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, calling it a major milestone in building an inclusive and prosperous Lagos.
He stressed that the combined efforts of USADF, LSETF, and other partners are crucial in equipping young people with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to succeed in today’s economy.
Adamu Garba, Executive Director of DDI, USADF’s implementing partner in Nigeria, also underscored the importance of the collaboration, highlighting DDI’s role in providing technical support to ensure the seamless execution of the program.
Since its inception, the USADF-LSETF Employability Program has trained individuals across key sectors such as Construction, Creative Industries, Education, Health & Beauty, Hospitality & Tourism, Renewable Energy, Services, and Technology.
