The Executive Chairman, Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Dr Ahmed Apatira, on Wednesday flagged off a three-week training programme for women and youths on commercial use of tricycles .Apatira, at the opening of the event in Lagos, said that the training would help reduce unemployment and alleviate poverty in the community.
The training was tagged “Apatira Queens Ride Initiative” and was launched in collaboration with Simba Group, a manufacturer of tricycles.
The chairman said that the training would also help to foster self-reliance, and unlock the potential of participants, ultimately preparing them for future challenges.
He assured that his administration remained committed to prioritising the welfare of residents of the council area.
“This programme is meant to empower women and youths in the council area on use of ‘Keke Marwa’ (tricycles) for commercial transportation.
“All participants will be given tricycles on higher purchase.
“This event marks a significant step toward improving the living standard of the community, aligning with the broader goals of reducing unemployment, fostering self-reliance, and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the council area,” he said.
Speaking, the Managing Director of Motorised Division of Simba Group, Mr Mahendra Pratap, said the initiative focussed on providing comprehensive training, particularly on the use of ”Deluxe Plus Tricycle,” for transport business.
“Simba Group, founded in 1988, is a conglomerate with operations across various economic sectors in the country, including, agriculture, alternative energy, back-up power supply, networking/data transmission, ICT innovation, transportation, sales and services,” he said.
Chairman, Community Development Committee (CDC) in Itire-Ikate LCDA, Mr Fatai Adelani, thanked the council boss for empowering residents through the programme.
According to him, the training will go a long way in helping the beneficiaries to become self-reliant and employers of labour.
Mr Tajudeen Owoeye, one of the beneficiaries, thanked the council chairman for organising the training programme.
Owoeye said the programme was a lifetime opportunity as he would gain more knowledge on the use of tricycles for transport business.
Mrs Omotayo Lawal, another beneficiary, also thanked the council chairman for giving her the opportunity to participate in the programme.
Lawal said that the programme would empower her and help her to take care of herself and support her family