By Seun Ibiyemi
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation (AALF) to promote youth leadership, community engagement, environmental sustainability and human capital development in support of Lagos State’s growing blue economy.
The partnership was formalised during a recent visit by officials of the Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation to the LASWA headquarters, where both organisations explored areas of mutual interest and opportunities for long-term collaboration.
Speaking at the meeting, the General Manager of LASWA and Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, underscored the importance of partnerships in driving innovation and sustainable development through youth participation.
He said the collaboration would help develop the next generation of leaders capable of supporting the state’s blue economy agenda.
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“The growth of the blue economy requires visionary leadership, community participation and strategic partnerships.
We are pleased to collaborate with the Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation in promoting leadership excellence, capacity development and initiatives that will positively impact waterfront communities and stakeholders within the waterways sector,” Emmanuel said.
According to LASWA, the partnership will focus on leadership development programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, community outreach, environmental sustainability advocacy and knowledge-sharing activities aimed at strengthening the human capital needed to support the waterways sector.
Director of the Apollo Africa Leadership Foundation, Ayo Akindele, described leadership as one of Africa’s greatest resources, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to nurture future leaders.
“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,” Akindele said.
The partnership aligns with the Lagos State Government’s vision of leveraging the blue economy as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, environmental sustainability and improved quality of life for residents.
Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to implementing impactful programmes that will empower young leaders, promote safety, strengthen community engagement and support sustainable development across Lagos State.
