THIRTY years ago, many would never have believed or imagined going about with phones in their pockets. Not many even believed that the telephone could be democratised, with the poor having the opportunity to place their call from even the remotest.
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It was all a miracle when it first happened, and ever since, it has remained a miracle to many developing countries of the world, and Nigeria is part of them.
In the same period, a lot of jobs were replaced, with the advent of mobile phones, and many more would be replaced with the emergence of new technology, as the world is now technologically driven, and its fuel is capitalism, its message is clear, ‘Profit Maximisation’.
In between these, where do you find yourself, because in another 10 years from now, a lot of jobs will also go into extinction, plus the ones you are hoping to become, and the ones your siblings and children unborn are hoping to be when they grow up. We believe that when a job disappears, others will appear, however, these conversations echo with concerns about robots taking over our jobs. It’s time to think, about 5G, the era of 3G is gone.
As Kevin Kelly, the ‘senior maverick’ at ‘Wired’ magazine, revealed, “They will do jobs we have been doing, and do them much better than we can.”

But here in Nigeria, we ponder: Should we embrace these new robot overlords?
Drawing inspiration from Nigerian wisdom, let’s consider the words of Chinua Achebe: “When suffering knocks at your door and you say there is no seat left for him, he tells you not to worry because he has brought his own stool.”

Perhaps, like the farm workers of two centuries past, we will find new occupations.
However, the sceptic within us recalls the saying, “Not everything you hear is good for the stomach.” As we envision a future with robot-driven cars and automated surgeries, we wonder if our proposed roles as ‘trip optimisers’ and ‘sterility keepers’ will truly materialise. Are we, like the famed Nollywood suspense, being led down a path of illusion?

In the crowded marketplaces, another perspective emerges: “If your friend is like a corpse, he will stink in time.” The fear lingers that personal work boots might become a symbol of status, creating an economic divide. As we hear the words of Paul Krugman echoing through the streets, we worry about a society where the gains in wealth accrue only to those who own the robots.

As we navigate this uncertain future, the words of Wole Soyinka ring true: “The greatest threat to freedom is the absence of criticism.”
It’s essential to critically assess the promises of a world filled with robots. Will our creativity and flexibility, our unique cognitive strengths, become the last bastions of human employment?

In the spirit of preparation, inspired by the words of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, let us cultivate curricula that foster creativity, encouraging the intrinsic motivation for originality among our children. For, in the rhythm of Nigerian life, we must dance to the beat of progress, even as the spectre of automation looms on the horizon.

In the relentless march of technological progress, traditional handworks that have been intrinsic to human culture for centuries face an unprecedented threat. As technology continues to advance at breakneck speed, the skills and craftsmanship associated with these time-honoured trades are gradually fading away. In this article, we will explore five handworks—carpentry, fashion designing, plumbing, and mechanics—that are on the verge of disappearing due to the relentless onslaught of modern technology.

Carpentry
Carpentry, once synonymous with the meticulous art of handcrafted woodwork, is facing obsolescence in the age of power tools and computer-aided design (CAD). The rhythmic sound of a hand plane smoothing rough wood and the skilful use of chisels to create intricate details are giving way to the whirring of electric saws and precision cutting afforded by automated machinery. While modern tools offer efficiency and precision, the personal touch and soul inherent in handcrafted wooden pieces are gradually disappearing. The rich tradition of hand-carved wooden artefacts is at risk of becoming a relic of the past.

Fashion Designing
In the realm of fashion, the intricate artistry of hand-stitched garments is being overshadowed by the rise of mass-produced, machine-sewn clothing. Fashion designers, once revered for their skill in sketching, cutting, and sewing by hand, now compete with automated sewing machines and computerised pattern cutting. The unique flair and personality that come with each handcrafted garment are giving way to the uniformity of factory-produced fashion. As the fashion industry embraces technology for efficiency, the traditional craftsmanship of fashion designing is gradually fading into the background.

Plumbing
The indispensable skill of plumbing, which has kept our water systems flowing smoothly for centuries, is facing a transformative wave with the advent of smart plumbing technologies. Traditional plumbers, adept at navigating intricate pipe systems and fixing leaks with hands-on expertise, are encountering competition from automated leak detection systems and sensor-driven plumbing solutions. While technology promises efficiency and precision, the nuanced understanding of plumbing nuances that come with years of hands-on experience may be at risk of fading away.

Auto Mechanics
The time-honoured trade of auto mechanics, where skilled individuals could diagnose and fix car troubles with hands-on expertise, is evolving in the face of computerised diagnostics and robotic repair technologies. The familiar sounds of a mechanic wielding a wrench and the smell of motor oil are being replaced by the hum of diagnostic computers and the precision of robotic arms. While modern automotive technology offers efficiency and accuracy, the tactile knowledge and problem-solving skills of the traditional mechanic may be at risk of becoming obsolete.
As we embrace the conveniences and efficiencies brought about by technological advancements, it is imperative to recognise the cost incurred by the extinction of traditional handworks. The disappearance of these crafts not only erodes our cultural heritage, but also diminishes the intrinsic beauty that arises from the human touch. While technology undoubtedly propels us forward, striking a balance that preserves the essence of our rich artisanal traditions is essential. As we bid farewell to these fading handworks, let us also acknowledge the importance of cherishing and preserving the skills that have shaped our diverse cultural tapestry for generations.

But wait, it’s not all sorrowful. Take a break. While it is apparent that some of the jobs above will eventually pass out with time, some factors may well delay its extinction in totality, Nigerian being the kind of country with its political structures, and the poor zeal it has to develop.
In Nigeria, as in many other parts of the world, the threat of extinction looming over traditional handwork such as carpentry, fashion designing, plumbing, and mechanics is mitigated by a combination of cultural resilience, economic factors, and the intrinsic value placed on artisanal craftsmanship.

Cultural Significance
Nigeria boasts a rich and diverse cultural tapestry, with traditional crafts deeply embedded in the fabric of daily life. Carpentry, for example, contributes not only to functional structures but also to the creation of culturally significant wooden artefacts and sculptures. The cultural importance of these crafts serves as a safeguard, ensuring that there remains a demand for skilled artisans who can produce items deeply rooted in Nigerian traditions.

Economic Realities
Traditional handworks continue to thrive in Nigeria owing to economic factors. In many instances, the cost-effectiveness and accessibility of traditional craftsmanship outweigh the investment in modern technologies. Handmade goods often cater to a local market that values authenticity and unique craftsmanship over mass-produced, standardised alternatives. In the face of economic considerations, these handworks maintain their relevance and economic viability.

Skilled Apprenticeship
The practice of passing down skills from one generation to the next through apprenticeship remains robust in Nigeria. Skilled artisans in carpentry, fashion designing, plumbing, and mechanics often mentor younger individuals within their communities. This passing down of knowledge ensures the continuity of these handworks, as apprentices learn not only the technical aspects but also the cultural nuances and artistic elements that make these crafts unique.

Community Demand
The demand for traditional handwork persists within local communities. In Nigeria, there is often a preference for handmade, custom-designed products over mass-produced alternatives. This demand creates a niche market for artisans, encouraging them to continue practising their crafts. Whether it’s a hand-carved wooden artefact, a custom-tailored garment, or personalised plumbing and mechanical services, community demand remains a driving force in sustaining these traditional handworks.

Adaptation to Modern Trends
While traditional handworks face challenges from modern technologies, many artisans in Nigeria are adapting to contemporary trends. This includes incorporating technology into their processes without entirely abandoning traditional methods. For instance, fashion designers may integrate modern sewing machines while preserving the artistry of hand-stitching. This adaptation allows artisans to stay relevant in a changing landscape while maintaining the essence of their crafts.

Artisan Pride, Identity
Many artisans in Nigeria take great pride in their work and view their crafts as not just a means of livelihood but also as an integral part of their identity. This sense of pride motivates artisans to continue their crafts even in the face of technological advancements. The preservation of cultural identity through these handworks becomes a powerful force in resisting the complete extinction of traditional craftsmanship.
The survival of traditional handworks in Nigeria is a testament to the resilience of cultural values, economic realities, and the dedication of skilled artisans. While technology continues to advance, the intricate tapestry of traditional crafts remains woven into the Nigerian way of life, ensuring that these handworks endure and evolve rather than fade into oblivion.
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