The Epe Local Government Council Area Of Lagos State has trained no fewer than 100 youths from across the eight wards of the local government council area on how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to think, create, and solve real-world problems.

The training, tagged “Emerging Leaders Training Programme,” was organised in partnership with "Iya Epe" Foundation, held from 14 to 18 July 2026, at the Council Chamber Hall, Epe Local Government Council Secretariat, Ita-Marun, Epe.

Speaking at the grand finale in Epe, the Chairperson of the Council, Princess Surah Animashaun, said the programme reflected her unwavering commitment to empowering youths with the knowledge and opportunities needed to excel in today’s technology-driven world while nurturing a new generation of responsible and visionary leaders.

Princess Animashaun expressed delight at the creativity and innovation displayed by the youths and expressed confidence in their potential.

“It is very impressive to see our youths under the age of 20 presenting the websites they built, showing storybooks they have written, and even playing music they requested AI to compose. If they can do this at this stage, we can imagine what they will achieve in the next five to ten years,” she said.

She added that such exposure stimulates curiosity, innovation, and creativity among young learners, noting that acquiring practical knowledge in Artificial Intelligence, Digital Innovation, Creative Content Development, Entrepreneurship, Leadership Communication, and Problem-Solving would positioning them to become catalysts for innovation and positive change within their respective communities.

The Chairperson congratulated the graduands on their successful completion of the programme, imploring them to make meaningful use of the knowledge acquired, and reminding them that “the future belongs to those who are prepared to learn, innovate, and lead.”

Princess Animashaun, said the “Emerging Leaders Programme” was not just about teaching technology but also about shaping mindsets, nurturing innovation, and helping young people to see themselves as creators of the digital future rather than mere consumers of it.

She commended the tutors/trainers of the programmme and her Exco members for their commitment to advancing digital literacy, permission and inclusion in the local government area of Lagos.

She also praised parents for supporting their children’s participation, noting that “the best investment you can make is in their minds. What you witnessed today are not just projects but seeds of transformation.”

“Over the past few days, your children have explored the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence — learning how machines think, create, and solve real-world problems. They have collaborated, built, and imagined boldly, proving that the future truly belongs to those who are curious, courageous, and creative,” Princess Animashaun said.

Some of the participants, including Abdullahi AbdulRahman, Ahmed Ayodeji Tijani, and Amirat Akanbi, expressed appreciation to the council’s Chairperson, her Exco members, and AI tutors for providing them with the opportunity to acquire digital skills and become AI-compliant.

Participants were drawn from eight wards across the local government council area and beyond through a seamless selection process.

The colourful event witnessed certificate presentations, goodwill messages, and moments of celebration as participants proudly graduated from life-changing programme.