‘Creativity and Innovation are essential drivers of national progress’ as stated by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
On Thursday, Mrs Bolaji Dada, the Commissioner For Women Affairs And Poverty Alleviation, disclosed this at the World Creativity And Innovation Day in 2024, also stressed that creativity and innovation could enhance a nation’s competitiveness on the global stage and improve the quality of life for citizens.
The event was held at the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Vocational Centre in Isheri, Berger, and was titled ‘Inspire: Step out and innovate.
“Creativity and innovation are essential drivers of national success, fostering growth, adaptability, and competitiveness globally. They play a crucial role in driving progress, solving complex problems, and enabling platforms that nurture growth. Creativity empowers societies to adapt to changing circumstances, develop new technologies, and find innovative solutions to social, economic, and environmental challenges. Moreover, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity can enhance a nation’s competitiveness on the global stage and improve the quality of life for its citizens,” Dada said.
She encouraged the participants to discover their potential, stating that it would boost their confidence and enhance their self-esteem, enabling them to earn an income.
“It is important that everyone steps out and unleashes the inherent potentials that they have to allow them to utilize their unique strengths, talents, and abilities, which can lead to personal fulfillment and success. You can pursue your passions, achieve your goals, and make a positive impact on the nation and the world around you, knowing fully well that not all are driven into white-collar jobs,” she added.
Dada disclosed that there were 19 vocational centres across the state, and last year a total of 4,592 beneficiaries graduated from the vocational centres.
Meanwhile, Maji Ayodele, the Keynote speaker at the event, advised the trainees to invest in other people around them and consistently come up with new ideas if they wished to be successful.
Ayodele said, “Influence the community around you, be creative with your marketing. If you want to be a successful entrepreneur, you must consistently come up with new ideas because the world changes fast. Whatever you are doing, do it excellently, and don’t rest on your oars. Don’t wait on your ideas, because the more you wait, the more opportunities will pass you by.”
An established trainee who attended the Mushin study center in 2021, Blessing Caius-Ijeoma, encouraged the trainees to have the right attitude and devote time to their handiwork.
Caius-Ijeoma, who trained in hairdressing and cosmetology, added, “If you don’t have the right attitude, you may not go far. You must always follow up with your clients.”
