The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has restated the commitment of his administration to scale up funding to build capacity of artisans/tradesmen in the state, noting that they are key contributors to economic growth and employment.

Speaking at the 14th Tradesmen and Artisans Day with the theme ‘Collaboration and Networking: the Path to Artisanal Growth and Development’, Sanwo-Olu said that the event is designed to showcase the huge potential in the sector as he acknowledged artisans as key contributors to economic growth, employment generation and wealth creation.

The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo explained that his administration has activated series of empowerment programmes to adequately prepare artisans in the state to think global and provide local solutions.

He said that the state has been consistently developing innovative solutions that had addressed the challenges of the group, stressing that his administration will create the enabling environment for improved productivity.

“As a government that is responsive to the needs of the people, we will continue to explore ways to make sure we cushion the effects of these policies. We will do everything within our power to support you at this time and ensure that you feel the impact of good governance.

“Our passion to enhance the growth of this sector and prosperity of all stakeholders has been demonstrated by the implementation of various programs through the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment and collaboration with other government agencies and the private sector,” he said

The Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Mr. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe said that the event was designed to commend and appreciate artisans and trade associations that have distinguished themselves in their chosen vocations and activities.

He, however, emphasised the crucial role that collaboration and networking play in advancing the growth and development of tradesmen and artisans, urging individuals and groups in the sector to seek knowledge and innovation to further develop themselves and their trades.

The President, Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, Alhaji Nurudeen Buhari applauded Sanwo-Olu for supporting the association to activate programmes that have enhanced capacity of the groups.

He asked that the state government should increase the number of artisans and tradesman trained annually as well as provide soft loans for members to boost their businesses.