CERUD EMPOWERS NEXT GENERATION OF BAKERS IN LAGOS

 

The Centre for Rural Development (CERUD), a Lagos State government agency, has taken a bold step toward empowering rural communities by organizing a one-day bread and pastry training program in Epe.

 The initiative, held at CERUD’s Igbodu Office Complex, brought together dozens of enthusiastic youths from Epe and neighboring communities.

Building Skills for Sustainable Livelihoods

Participants received hands-on training in modern baking techniques, hygiene practices, and packaging methods—skills designed to help them establish small-scale businesses in bread and pastry production. 

According to CERUD Director, Musbsiu Muyiwa Balogun, this maiden edition of the program was created to reduce unemployment and foster economic inclusion in rural areas.

“Our goal is to equip young people with practical skills that can translate into sustainable livelihoods. By focusing on bread and pastry production, we are tapping into a sector with high demand and strong market potential,” Balogun explained.

Aligning with Lagos State’s Development Agenda

                                              Dr. Nurudeen Yekini Agbaje

Mrs. Kimelomo Bolarinwa

Relaying the messages of Dr. Nurudeen Yekini Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, and Mrs. Kimelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Balogun emphasized that the training aligns with Lagos State’s broader agenda of equitable development. The program ensures that rural communities benefit from skill acquisition opportunities traditionally concentrated in urban centers.

He further charged participants to make good use of the starter kits provided, motivating them to put their new skills into practice.

Starter Kits and Encouragement

Director , Public Affairs, Olusola Ajisafe, urged participants to take the training seriously, noting that it would improve their standard of living. To support their journey, CERUD distributed starter kits—including mini ovens, 50kg bags of flour, weighing scales, and certificates of participation—at the close of the program.

Voices of Gratitude

Participants at the training  with CERUD officials

Several participants expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting how the training would enable them to contribute to their families’ income and community growth. Facilitators ensured that each participant left with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for success in the bread and pastry industry.

Looking Ahead

CERUD reaffirmed its commitment to expanding training and empowerment initiatives across other rural communities in Lagos State. This effort reinforces the government’s vision of inclusive growth and development, ensuring that no community is left behind in the pursuit of economic opportunities.

  Several participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting how the training would enable them to contribute to their families’ income and community growth. 

Starter kits which included mini overn,50kg of flour, scale  and certificates of participation were distributed at the close of the training 

CERUD reaffirmed its commitment to expanding  the training and empowerment initiatives across other rural communities in Lagos State, reinforcing the government’s vision of inclusive growth and development.