In a significant push toward promoting digital innovation and inclusion at the grassroots, the Executive Chairman of Bariga Local Council, Hon. Adedeji Bukola Omope, officially launched a 25-day ICT Empowerment Training Programme aimed at equipping residents with vital digital skills.

The opening ceremony, held on Monday, October 6, was attended by an impressive array of dignitaries, community leaders, and political figures, underlining the importance of the initiative to Bariga’s development agenda.

In her welcome remarks, Hon. Adedeji declared the training open and described it as a milestone for the council.

> “This training is a significant milestone in bringing science and innovation to the grassroots,” she said. “This is just Phase 1 — another phase is still coming. Our goal is to promote digital literacy in Bariga, and at the end of this training, participants will be equipped with tools such as brand-new laptops. I urge everyone to take this opportunity seriously.”



The event was graced by top government functionaries including Hon. Prince Babatunde Adesida, Vice Chairman of Bariga LCDA; Hon. Alabi Kolade David, Immediate Past Chairman; Hon. Samuel Apata and Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Somolu Constituencies 1 and 2 respectively; and Hon. Seun Osiyemi, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation.

Also present was a representative of the Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Hon. Tunbosun Alake, who was ably represented by Mr. Kehinde Ibrahim. In his remarks, he lauded the initiative, calling it a forward-thinking investment in human capital development.

Other dignitaries took turns to commend the program. Hon. Apata encouraged participants to embrace learning and pass on their knowledge, while Hon. Orekoya praised the Chairman’s consistent commitment to youth empowerment and acknowledged the strong foundation laid by Hon. Alabi during his tenure.

Hon. Osiyemi applauded the overall performance of Hon. Adedeji’s administration, particularly its focus on practical empowerment. In his own address, Hon. Alabi Kolade David described ICT as a transformative tool and a “catalyst” for innovation and economic growth among youth.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Mrs. Oyelowo, Head of the ICT Unit in Bariga, while Miss Oshin Kudirat, speaking on behalf of the participants, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Executive Chairman and her team for creating such a valuable opportunity.

The event was also witnessed by several notable personalities and community stakeholders, including Hon. Wasiu Balogun, Leader of the Bariga Legislative Arm and Councillors; Otunba Shakirudeen Anifowoshe Dengel; Hon. Dare Martins Onakoya, Executive Secretary of the Somolu Local Government Education District; Hon. Akin Mejolagbe, APC Chairman, Bariga Local Council; Alhaja Raji Modupe, APC Women Leader; Engineer Padonu, Council Engineer, among others.

The ICT training program marks a new chapter in Bariga’s commitment to equipping residents especially young people with the digital skills necessary to thrive in today’s technology-driven world. Participants are expected to receive both theoretical and hands-on training, with tools and resources provided to support their continued learning beyond the program.