The member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, has described the SAIL Innovation Lab as a game-changing intervention capable of taking vulnerable youths off the streets, equipping them with digital skills and connecting them to employment opportunities in the global technology market.
Benson made the assessment on Tuesday during a visit to the iconic SAIL Innovation Lab in Ikorodu, where he commended Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, and his wife, Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, for establishing the hub as a free platform for digital skills development, innovation and youth empowerment.
“You train people and give them jobs. You take vulnerable people off the streets and give them an opportunity to become productive members of society,” Benson commended SAIL founders.
The lawmaker described the initiative as “beyond foresight,” stressing that its greatest value lies in preparing young people for opportunities in the rapidly expanding global digital economy.
Speaking further, Hon. Benson particularly identified Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) as a major opportunity for Nigerian youths, noting that Nigeria has the talent and population to capture a significant share of the estimated $10 billion global market but is currently losing opportunities to countries such as Kenya and Ghana.
“BPO is a huge opportunity. Nigerians are out of the market, while opportunities are going to Kenya and Ghana. SAIL will help cure that by plugging our young people into the market,” he said.
He also noted that his visit to SAIL had provided fresh inspiration ahead of his planned engagement with young people, particularly on the opportunities available to them in digital, technology and innovation.
In his remarks, Senator Abiru expressed appreciation to Hon. Benson and his team, including the Mayor of Ikorodu, Mr. Muyideen Sanwoola; Chief Medical Director, Imota General Hospital, Dr. Adenike Omosu; and Hon. Toyin Bolowotan, for visiting the facility.
Abiru reaffirmed his commitment to building a future driven by innovation and inclusive opportunities, stressing the importance of equipping young people with the skills required to compete and thrive in the global digital economy.
He explained that SAIL was established to create practical pathways for young Nigerians to acquire relevant digital, tech and innovation skills, access employment opportunities and participate meaningfully in the technology-driven economy.
The visit highlighted the growing potential of SAIL as a strategic platform for youth empowerment, digital skills development and job creation, positioning Ikorodu as an emerging hub for technology and innovation.
