Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the economic empowerment and development of citizens through massive investment in entrepreneurial and skills acquisition.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of a four-week Artisans Up-Skilling Training Program for selected Master Crafts Persons (MCPs), the governor emphasized the critical importance of promoting entrepreneurship and skills development to enhance citizens’ competitiveness.
The training, organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Board for Technical and Vocational Education, was held at the Government Technical Colleges in Ado-Ekiti and Ikole-Ekiti.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, Governor Oyebanji highlighted the vital role artisans play in driving small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and the broader economic growth of the state.
The governor explained that the training program aimed not only to enhance artisans’ technical skills but also to equip them with modern tools and knowledge to thrive in the 21st-century economy.
He said, “Artisans are the backbone of SMEs in our society. Their skills, creativity, and hard work are pivotal to the growth of both local communities and larger industries.
“We recognize that Ekiti State’s prosperity rests significantly on the success of our artisans and private sector players, who are the engines of job creation and economic stability.
” One of the key pillars of this administration’s agenda is the promotion of entrepreneurship and skills development, with a focus on enhancing the capacities of our people to compete at the highest levels.”
Governor Oyebanji praised the artisans for their commitment during the training and urged them to embrace innovation and expand their businesses, promising government support through policy frameworks and infrastructure development.
In her opening remarks, the State Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mrs Omotayo Adeola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dele Ogunsemoyin, highlighted that the initiative aimed to bolster the craftsmanship and entrepreneurship of artisans, who are the backbone of the state’s informal economy.
“Today marks the conclusion of a rewarding training program designed to empower our artisans and private sector with cutting-edge skills and modern techniques, ensuring their services meet both local and international standards,” she said.
The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, who spoke through the Permanent Secretary, Olusesan Alabi, praised the governor for initiating the timely training, saying, “Governor Oyebanji has not only provided us with fish but also taught us how to fish.”
The Chairman of Ekiti Artisans, Ebenezer Fadipe expressed gratitude for the government’s support but requested further assistance in providing modern tools to enhance craftsmanship and effective operations in the state.
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