Empowering individuals with practical skills is one of the most effective ways to eradicate poverty, according to the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Olusola Odedeji.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of students from the Vocational and Skill Acquisition Centre of the Diocese of Lagos West, held at the Caroline Adefiola Women Centre in Ipaja, Lagos, on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Bishop Odedeji emphasized the importance of self-reliance through vocational training.
Thirty students graduated from the centre, acquiring expertise in fields such as fashion design, crafts, hairdressing, cosmetology, catering, and hospital management.
The bishop highlighted the relevance of skill acquisition in today’s economy, stating that it is more beneficial to equip people with income-generating abilities than to offer financial handouts.
“Many young people come here expecting free money, but we insist on teaching them skills that will improve their livelihood. This approach has yielded great results over the years,” he said.
He noted that many graduates who once struggled financially, including those unable to marry due to financial instability, are now gainfully employed and financially independent.
“I have attended over 10 weddings of former trainees who, after acquiring skills, have become financially stable and started families,” he added.
In his keynote address, titled “Embracing the Future with Skill, Purpose, and Resilience,” Bishop Odedeji expressed joy at the ceremony and urged the graduates to apply their skills with excellence and integrity.
“Success is not just about having skills; it’s about how you use them,” he advised. “Whether you are a carpenter, fashion designer, IT technician, chef, or healthcare professional, let your work reflect passion and commitment to quality. A good name, built on honesty and hard work, will take you farther than any certificate alone.”
The centre’s coordinator, Ven. Ariire Ayo Kolawole, appreciated the diocese’s support, recalling how past trainees sent to Abeokuta for similar programs consistently excelled. He noted that with the diocese now having its own well-equipped centre, more individuals can benefit from the training.
Outstanding instructors and top-performing students were recognized with awards during the event.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, the best graduating student, Kelechi Ajero Gift, expressed gratitude to the diocese for its investment in their future and pledged to be a good ambassador in the workforce.
