Lagos Trains 100 Youths in Event Planning: How Young Nigerians Can Turn the Skill into a Career
Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe.
100 Young Lagosian Gain Event Planning Skills
The Lagos State Government has trained 100 young people in event planning and management, opening another pathway for youths interested in entrepreneurship, employment and the creative economy.
The maiden programme was organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment in partnership with Zapphire Training School. Participants received practical training and industry exposure before graduating with certificates.
The programme covered skills relevant to a broad industry that includes event coordination, production, catering, logistics, photography, entertainment and hospitality.
How Young People Can Benefit
The biggest lesson from the programme is that event planning can become a business, not just a hobby.
Young people interested in the sector can begin by learning core skills such as budgeting, client management, venue coordination, digital marketing, decoration and event production. Free and paid courses can also help build professional knowledge.
Following opportunities from the Lagos State Government and its Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment is another practical step. Young people should monitor official announcements for future training programmes, entrepreneurship schemes and vocational opportunities.
“Passion alone will not guarantee success; discipline, knowledge, professionalism and continuous skills development are essential.”
Turn Training into Income
Participants should look beyond obtaining certificates. Internships, volunteering and assisting established event professionals can provide valuable practical experience and industry contacts.
Aspiring event planners can also start small by handling birthdays, corporate meetings, weddings and community events. Building a portfolio through photographs, testimonials and social-media content can help attract clients.
Developing additional skills in social media management, photography, catering, logistics and financial management can create multiple income streams.
The Lagos training demonstrates how practical skills can create pathways to employment and entrepreneurship. Young Nigerians interested in event planning should actively seek training, gain hands-on experience, build professional networks and watch for future government and private-sector opportunities.
