The Ogun State Government, in collaboration with Lafarge Africa Plc, a leading building solutions provider, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering young women in the construction industry. The 2025 Female Tilers and Block-Laying Training Programme, scheduled to commence in September 2025, represents a significant step towards bridging the gender gap in a traditionally male-dominated sector. This free, eight-week intensive training program will equip participants with valuable practical skills, opening doors to employment opportunities and promoting economic independence. The program underscores the commitment of both the government and Lafarge to fostering inclusivity and sustainable development within Ogun State.
The program, hosted at the Women Development Centre in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, offers a unique opportunity for young women aged 18 to 30, possessing a minimum of a Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) qualification and residing in Ogun State, to acquire specialized skills in tiling and block-laying. This targeted approach aims to provide a pathway for women to enter and thrive within the construction sector, traditionally a domain with limited female representation. By equipping participants with these in-demand skills, the program not only empowers individuals but also contributes to the overall growth and development of the construction industry within the state.
The collaboration between the Ogun State Government and Lafarge highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving social and economic progress. Lafarge’s commitment to this initiative reflects their corporate social responsibility and aligns with their vision of building sustainable communities. The program’s emphasis on skills development, job creation, and gender equality sets a powerful precedent for future collaborations and underscores the potential of such partnerships to address critical societal needs. This synergy between government and private sector expertise is crucial for creating impactful and sustainable change.
Beyond the acquisition of technical skills, the program also focuses on fostering a supportive and empowering environment for the participants. The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, spearheading the initiative, has emphasized its commitment to providing comprehensive support to the trainees throughout the program and beyond. This includes not only facilitating access to training but also connecting successful graduates with potential employers within the construction industry. By bridging the gap between training and employment, the program ensures that participants can translate their newly acquired skills into tangible career opportunities.
The Ministry is actively working to ensure the widest possible reach of this transformative program through extensive awareness campaigns across the state. Community leaders, civil society organizations, and various stakeholders are being enlisted to disseminate information about the program and encourage eligible young women to apply. This collaborative approach ensures that the opportunity reaches those who stand to benefit the most, particularly those in underserved communities. The commitment to broad-based outreach reflects the program’s overarching goal of fostering inclusivity and promoting equal access to opportunities for all women in Ogun State.
This initiative goes beyond simply training individuals; it represents a strategic investment in the future of Ogun State. By empowering women with valuable skills and creating pathways to economic independence, the program contributes to broader societal development. A stronger female workforce in the construction sector will not only benefit individual families but will also contribute to the overall economic growth and prosperity of the state. The program embodies a vision of a more inclusive and equitable future, where women play a vital role in shaping the built environment and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities. The program’s success will serve as a model for other initiatives aimed at empowering women and promoting sustainable development across various sectors.
