The Lagos State Government is taking proactive steps to enhance emergency response and youth empowerment through a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations and the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, with strategic input from the Nigerian diaspora.
According to a statement signed by the Head of Public Affairs, Ministry of Special Duties, Mrs. Tinuade Aiyegbusi, the initiative will focus on capacity-building programmes and international training for emergency responders, alongside youth development and empowerment programmes
This followed a recent meeting between the Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, and Canadian-based Councillor, Mrs. Ajibola Abitoye, from Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta.
At the meeting held in Alausa, both parties explored opportunities for partnership in crisis management, fire prevention, youth leadership training, and intergovernmental collaboration. Oyerinde welcomed the collaboration, expressing optimism about its potential to strengthen emergency response capabilities in Lagos.
He praised the dedication of first responders and assured Councillor Abitoye of the state’s commitment to supporting her initiatives.Abitoye, in turn, lauded the Ministry’s role in disaster risk reduction and expressed keen interest in supporting boot camps, skill acquisition, and educational initiatives targeting Lagos youth.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties, Sesan Ogundeko , applauded the reduction in property loss due to improved disaster management efforts.
His counterpart from the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharmacist Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, emphasized the immense value diaspora partnerships can bring through knowledge exchange and capacity building.
Other key stakeholders at the meeting included representatives from LASEMA, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Safety Commission, the Neighbourhood Safety Agency, and the Command and Control Centre.
The collaboration is expected to deliver lasting impact across emergency preparedness and youth empowerment in the state.
