LASWA, Apollo Africa Foundation Partner to Empower Youth for Lagos’ Blue Economy
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has entered a strategic partnership with the Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation (AALF) to advance leadership development, youth empowerment, community engagement, and sustainability within Lagos’ burgeoning blue economy.
The collaboration was formalized during a recent visit by AALF representatives to LASWA’s headquarters, where both organisations identified shared priorities and collaboration opportunities.
Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, General Manager of LASWA and Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, said partnerships are essential for driving innovation and sustainable development through youth involvement.
He noted that “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 stated.
“The partnership will prioritise leadership training, youth development programmes, community outreach, environmental sustainability advocacy, and knowledge-sharing activities to strengthen human capital for Lagos State’s waterways sector.”
Ayo Akindele, Director of AALF, said the alliance will help prepare young people to lead and contribute to sustainable development across Lagos, Nigeria, and Africa.
“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 collaboration supports the Lagos State Government’s vision of leveraging the blue economy to spur economic growth, job creation, environmental stewardship, and improved quality of life for residents. Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to delivering programmes that empower young leaders and promote safety and sustainability across the waterways.