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The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has described artisans as the cornerstone of the state’s economy, stressing their significant contributions to major sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and services.
Governor Oyebanji made the assertion in Ado-Ekiti at the official opening of a four-week Artisan Upskilling Training program for selected Master Craftsmen (MCs), organized by the Ekiti State Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, and the Board for Technical and Vocational Education.
The Governor who spoke through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, emphasized the critical roles artisans play in the informal sector, particularly in job creation and the provision of essential services.
“In an era of rapid technological advancement and changing market dynamics, it is imperative that our artisans are equipped with modern skills and knowledge to remain competitive and relevant,” the Governor stated.
He stressed that the primary objective of the four-week training is to upskill artisans, enabling them to acquire new techniques, improve their craftsmanship, and adopt modern tools and technologies. “By doing so, we aim to enhance their productivity, increase their income, and ultimately uplift their standard of living, thereby realizing our shared prosperity mantra,” he added.
The training program will cover various trades, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, metal fabrication, welding, and more. Governor Oyebanji stressed that the initiative is not just about skill acquisition, but also about empowerment.
“The government is empowering artisans to take control of their destinies, compete favorably in the global market, and contribute more meaningfully to the economy of Ekiti State. By investing in our human capital, we are laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth and development,” the governor remarked.
He further assured that the state government is committed to supporting artisans beyond the training program, ensuring their growth and development by providing access to credit facilities, creating an enabling environment for business growth, and implementing policies that favor the development of small and medium-scale enterprises. “Our vision is to make Ekiti State a hub for skilled artisans, recognized for quality craftsmanship and innovation,” he concluded.
Earlier in her welcome address, the State Commissioner for Trade, Industry Investment and Cooperatives, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola emphasized that the initiative was one of the promises that Mr. Governor made to Artisans at the beginning of his administration.
Mrs. Adeola noted that the training would not only equip participants with essential skills but also provide them with both Participants’ and Labour Trade Test Certificates.
She added that the State Government plans to showcase the participants’ work to a broader audience following the completion of the programme.
In her goodwill message, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye g economic empowerment, combining these skills with educational qualifications can open even more opportunities for the beneficiaries.
While advising the beneficiaries to be truthful and transparent when interacting with customers, as trust is a cornerstone of successful business relationships, Dr. Aderiye urged parents to encourage their children to learn a trade or handwork, emphasizing the value of vocational skills in today’s economy.
The training programme holding simultaneously at the Government Technical Colleges in Ado-Ekiti and Ikole-Ekiti would train 250 participants, offering courses such as Motor Vehicle Mechanic Works, Metal Fabrication & Welding, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Electrical Installation & Maintenance Works, Furniture & Joinery and Vehicle Body Building (Panel Beating) as well as Block Laying & Tiling, Plumbing & Pipe Laying, Painting & Decoration, Carpentry & Joinery and Electrical Installation & Maintenance Works.
