Lagos Govt, Diageo Push for Increased Investment in Hospitality Sector

The Lagos State Government has emphasized the need for increased investment in the hospitality sector, particularly in skills training and development. This call was made at the graduation ceremony of the first cohort of the Diageo Learning for Life programme, which took place at Victoria Island, Lagos. According to the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, the state's hospitality industry is experiencing rapid growth, and investing in skills development is crucial for the sector's continued expansion. Sule, who was represented by the Director of the Lagos State Agency for Mass Education, Mrs Oluwakemi Kalesanwo, noted that the country's economic diversification goals rely heavily on a workforce equipped to drive service-oriented industries. The Commissioner commended the Diageo Learning for Life initiative, which is in partnership with Celebr-8 Lyfe and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, for its focus on practical hospitality, employability, and entrepreneurship skills. These skills are vital for the state's economic growth and social stability programmes, as they provide young people with meaningful career opportunities and sustainable livelihoods. The General Manager of Diageo Nigeria, Adebayo Alli, also spoke at the event, highlighting the significance of the programme in professionalizing and strengthening the tourism and hospitality sector in Nigeria. Alli stated that the programme is designed to equip young people with hospitality and tourism skills, as well as create pathways to confidence, employability, and long-term economic empowerment. The programme has already shown promising results, with over 300 young people trained and more than 150 participants securing internship placements in the hospitality industry. The Commissioner of Art and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who was represented by the Deputy Director of the ministry, Idera Folakemi, praised the initiative for its positive impact on the lives of young people in the country. The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment, recognizing that investing in people is essential for the future of society.