The Lagos State Government has graduated 570 young men and women from its Talent Hunt Eko Studio Culture Programme, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirming the administration’s commitment to building a 21st-century economy driven by creativity and innovation. Represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat at the ceremony themed “Creating Wealth, Elevating Lagos Creatives” in Alausa on Tuesday, the Governor said the initiative aligns with the THEMES+ Agenda to turn passion into sustainable careers. He also announced the recently unveiled ₦10 billion Cooperative Fund for MSMEs, which beneficiaries of the programme can access to start businesses.
Sanwo-Olu noted that participants were drawn from the five divisions of the state and trained through classroom sessions, virtual learning, practical workshops, and industry mentorship. According to him, the creative sector is now a major economic driver globally, with Nigerian music, film, AMVCA, and Lagos Fashion Week positioning Lagos as where creativity meets opportunity. “Think beyond employment. Become employers. Create businesses and build brands that can compete across Africa and the world,” he told graduands, urging them to leverage technology, professionalism, and consistency to scale their talent.
Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, said the programme was designed to equip young Lagosians with relevant skills for the fast-growing creative economy. Managing Director of Dream Music Hall Academy, Mr. Bolaji Williams, added that the course bridges creativity and commerce with training in entrepreneurship, finance, and business management, noting that Lagos’ entertainment industry generated an estimated $10.8 billion between 2024 and 2025. Head of Service Mr. Olabode Agoro also reiterated government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for youth to thrive, innovate, and contribute to the state’s economic development.
