LSETF, UNDP open applications for skills, MSME support programme

Thousands of young Lagos residents and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are set to benefit from free skills training and business support as the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched the third phase of the Lagos State Employability Support Project (LSESP).

The initiative, which officially opened for applications on Monday, is designed to equip Lagosians with industry-relevant skills, improve employability and strengthen small businesses to drive economic growth across the state.

Young Lagos residents aged 18 to 45 years, as well as MSME owners, have been invited to apply for the programme, which offers practical training in sectors with growing employment opportunities.

This phase of the project will focus on four strategic areas: Digital Skills, Leather Works, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and MSME Capacity Building.

According to the organisers, the programme builds on the success of previous phases and aims to prepare participants for emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s evolving economy while boosting entrepreneurship and business competitiveness.

The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund said the project reflects the state government’s commitment to tackling unemployment through targeted skills development and strategic partnerships.

“The Lagos State Employability Support Project represents another important step towards equipping our people with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s evolving economy. Through strategic partnerships, we continue to create opportunities that enable individuals and businesses to become more productive, competitive and economically resilient,” the agency said.

To qualify, applicants must possess a valid Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) identification card. Graduate applicants are also required to present their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate where applicable.

Applications will remain open until Friday, July 31, 2026, with interested participants expected to register through the official application portal.

The Lagos State Employability Support Project is one of the state’s flagship employment interventions aimed at reducing unemployment, improving workforce competitiveness, supporting MSMEs and promoting inclusive economic development.

Established under the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund Law, 2016, the LSETF provides financial support, entrepreneurship development, job creation initiatives and employability programmes through strategic collaborations with development partners and the private sector.

The latest phase is expected to further expand access to market-driven skills and business support, empowering more Lagos residents to secure jobs, build sustainable enterprises and contribute to the state’s growing economy.