The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has partnered with the Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation (AALF) to promote youth leadership development, empowerment and community engagement as part of efforts to support the growth of the state’s blue economy.
The partnership was sealed during a meeting between officials of both organisations at the LASWA headquarters in Lagos, where they agreed to collaborate on initiatives aimed at developing young talents and strengthening human capacity within the waterways sector.
Speaking during the engagement, LASWA General Manager and Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said sustainable development of the blue economy requires deliberate investment in leadership, innovation and collaboration among key stakeholders.
Emmanuel noted that the partnership would create opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire relevant skills while supporting programmes that would positively impact waterfront communities and players in the maritime industry.
He said LASWA remains committed to working with organisations that share its vision of promoting sustainable development, community participation and innovation in the state’s waterways sector.
“The growth of the blue economy requires visionary leadership, community participation and strategic partnerships. We are pleased to collaborate with Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation in promoting leadership excellence, capacity development and initiatives that will positively impact waterfront communities and stakeholders within the waterways sector,” he said.
Under the partnership, LASWA and AALF are expected to implement leadership training programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, community outreach projects, environmental sustainability campaigns and knowledge-sharing activities.
The programmes are designed to equip young people with the skills and exposure needed to contribute to the development of Lagos’ blue economy and strengthen the workforce required to drive sustainable growth.
The Director of Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation, Mr Ayo Akindele, described leadership development as a critical factor in Africa’s progress, stressing the importance of partnerships between government institutions and private organisations in preparing future leaders.
Akindele said the collaboration with LASWA would provide young people with the knowledge, values and experience required to contribute meaningfully to economic development.
“Leadership is one of Africa’s most valuable resources, and building future leaders requires collaboration across both public and private sectors. Our partnership with LASWA presents an opportunity to empower young people with the skills, exposure and mindset needed to drive sustainable development and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the state, country and continent,” he said.
The partnership forms part of ongoing efforts by stakeholders to develop a skilled workforce capable of harnessing the economic opportunities in Nigeria’s blue economy, particularly in areas such as maritime services, water transportation, environmental sustainability and coastal development.
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