Collaboration targets leadership development, community engagement and sustainability to build workforce for expanding waterways sector
By Heapnews
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has signed a partnership with the Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation (AALF) to promote youth leadership, skills development and community engagement as Lagos seeks to expand its blue economy, the agency said.
The partnership, formalised during a meeting at LASWA’s headquarters, will focus on leadership training, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability campaigns and community outreach programmes aimed at developing the human capital needed to support the state’s growing waterways sector.
Lagos has increasingly positioned its blue economy strategy as a key driver of economic diversification, with authorities investing in water transport infrastructure, safety initiatives and capacity building to reduce pressure on the city’s congested road network while creating jobs.
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“The growth of the blue economy requires visionary leadership, community participation and strategic partnerships,” LASWA General Manager and Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said in a statement.
He said the collaboration would help promote leadership excellence and capacity development while supporting initiatives that benefit waterfront communities and stakeholders in the waterways sector.
Under the agreement, the two organisations plan to organise leadership development programmes, knowledge-sharing engagements and sustainability initiatives designed to equip young Nigerians with skills for careers in the maritime and blue economy sectors.
Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation Director Ayo Akindele said the partnership underscored the role of collaboration between public institutions and non-profit organisations in preparing future leaders.
“Leadership is one of Africa’s most valuable resources, and building future leaders requires collaboration across both public and private sectors,” Akindele said.
He added that the initiative would provide young people with the skills, exposure and mindset needed to contribute to sustainable development and economic growth.
Both organisations said the partnership aligns with the Lagos State Government’s broader strategy of using the blue economy to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, promote environmental stewardship and improve livelihoods, while reaffirming their commitment to programmes that advance youth empowerment, safety and sustainability.