THE Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment has celebrated the Year 2024 Artisans Day, themed: “Creating 21st Century Artisans for Sustainable Economic Growth”, in a bid to acknowledge the various roles and contributions of artisans to socio-economic growth in the State.
Speaking yesterday at the Blue Roof, LTV Ikeja, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, stated that the event resonates with the incredible works of artisans in every community.
Revealing that the auspicious day is marked annually, Ajigbotafe applauded the progress made by artisans in advancing the objectives and visions of the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans.
He explained that the informal sectors contribute a large chunk to the GDP of the State; hence Lagos artisans need to be up and doing as they are vital to the THEMES Plus Developmental Agenda of the State Government.
The Commissioner stated that the theme: “Creating 21st Century Artisans for Sustainable Economic Growth”, is epochal in highlighting the importance of social inclusion for artisans by equipping them with the basic skills required to accelerate economic growth.
He averred that the concept of sustainable economic growth is multifaceted and encompasses not only economic progress but also social equity and environmental stewardship.
Ajigbotafe, therefore, charged Artisans to embrace the use of technology to amplify and elevate their businesses while stressing the need to foster a culture of collaboration and networking of customers to increase sales.
The Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry will continuously support Artisans with the skills required to enhance their businesses, empower them with the necessary modern equipment, and provide loans to cushion their businesses.
Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Dr Biodun Onayele, reiterated the State Government's commitment to supporting artisans to achieve success in their business.
The high point of the event was the match past by Tradesmen and Artisans from various Associations in Lagos State.
Dignitaries in attendance include Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Biodun Ogunleye; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Wealth Creation and Employment, Mr Tijani Saheed Oluwadare; Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Abiola Olowu and President of the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, Mr Lawrence Ajayi, amongst others.
