A new empowerment programme aimed at equipping young women with practical skills in the construction sector has been launched by the Ogun State Government in collaboration with Lafarge.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, disclosed that applications are now open for the 2025 Female Tilers and Block-Laying Training Programme, which will officially commence in September at the Women Development Centre, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta. The intensive programme will run for eight weeks.
Adeleye described the initiative as a bold step toward breaking gender barriers in non-traditional trades. She explained that beyond offering hands-on training, the scheme also seeks to connect participants to employment opportunities and foster stronger collaboration with other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) within the construction sector.
The training, which is completely free, is open to female applicants aged 18 to 30, who are residents of Ogun State and possess at least an SSCE qualification. Applications will be accepted from 27 August to 8 September 2025, after which shortlisted candidates will be enrolled for the full-time training.
“This programme is not only about skill acquisition; it is about opening doors of opportunity, strengthening women’s economic independence, and shaping a more inclusive future for our state,” Adeleye said. She added that the government remains grateful to Lafarge for its role in making the project a reality.
The Commissioner urged young women to take advantage of the opportunity while calling on community leaders, civil society groups, and stakeholders to help spread awareness. According to her, the Ministry will intensify campaigns to mobilize qualified applicants across Ogun State.
