IKEJA — A Lagos-based entrepreneur, Oluwadamilare Bashir, has launched a solar empowerment training programme aimed at equipping 100 youths in Ikeja with practical skills in solar installation and renewable energy entrepreneurship.

Unlike traditional empowerment initiatives that focus on cash disbursement, Bashir’s programme emphasizes hands-on skills acquisition to foster long-term income opportunities and economic self-reliance for young residents aged 18 to 40.

Speaking at the unveiling of the initiative, Bashir said the training will be delivered in batches to ensure quality instruction and effective supervision, with the first group of 20 trainees set to commence in March.

“Our goal is to create a pool of skilled solar technicians and energy entrepreneurs capable of meeting the growing demand for alternative power solutions within Ikeja and beyond,” he said. “This is not just an empowerment programme; it is a capacity-building initiative.”

Bashir explained that the programme addresses the dual challenges of youth unemployment and unreliable electricity supply, noting that solar technology provides both job opportunities and practical energy solutions for households and small businesses.

He further aligned the initiative with the economic vision of President Bola Tinubu, highlighting its focus on enterprise, innovation, and inclusive growth. Bashir also praised President Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, for grassroots engagements and humanitarian efforts, as well as the Lagos State Governor’s Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde, for his guidance and support.

Stakeholders have described the solar training scheme as a replicable model for tackling unemployment while advancing clean energy adoption at the community level. Bashir emphasized that the programme is structured to restore dignity to labour, stimulate small-scale enterprise, and prepare Lagos youths to thrive in a rapidly evolving energy economy.