Governor Oyebanji Reaffirms Commitment to Citizens' Economic Empowerment at Artisans Training Closing Ceremony.

Governor Oyebanji Reaffirms Commitment to Citizens' Economic Empowerment at Artisans Training Closing Ceremony.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the economic empowerment and development of citizens. 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.

"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," he said.

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. "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," he added.

Governor Oyebanji praised the artisans for their commitment during the training and urged them to embrace innovation and expand their businesses. He assured the government’s ongoing support through policy frameworks and infrastructure development. "Together, we will build a prosperous Ekiti State where the dignity of labor is celebrated, and success is shared by all," he concluded.

In her opening remarks, the State Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. 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.

Mrs. Adeola encouraged participants to stay proactive and innovative as they transition into the next phase of their professional journeys, adding that the initiative is crucial for the State's economic growth and the upliftment of its people.

The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Taiwo Olatunbosun, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusesan Alabi, praised the governor for initiating the timely training. He noted that it had broadened participants' knowledge, particularly in customer relations. "Governor Oyebanji has not only provided us with fish but also taught us how to fish," Olatunbosun remarked.

Commissioner for Education, Dr. Adebimpe Aderiye, mni, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mike Omolayo, stressed that education is incomplete without trade skills. He encouraged artisans to uphold good character and integrity, which he said were essential to their success.

In his goodwill message, Dr. Joel Ekundayo commended Governor Oyebanji for providing state-of-the-art equipment for the training. He urged participants to make the most of the knowledge and resources gained for the benefit of their futures and families.

Chairman of Ekiti Artisans, Mr. Ebenezer, expressed gratitude for the government’s support but requested further assistance in providing modern tools to enhance craftsmanship. Similarly, Mr. Sola Jegede, Chairman of the Welding Association and a participant in the Vehicle Body Builder Section (VBBS), thanked Governor Oyebanji for the training opportunity and called for additional equipment to fully implement the skills acquired.

The event marks a significant milestone in Ekiti State’s efforts to boost artisans' skills and foster sustainable economic growth through the empowerment of its citizens.