The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, has tasked the leadership of the Artisans Association in the state to step up plans to support their members. He called for partnerships with relevant stakeholders to create platforms that will provide access to continuous learning and promote technical innovation in various trades and professions.
The Speaker gave the charge while receiving the state chapter of the Artisans Association, led by its President, Anthony Ayodele. The courtesy call took place at the Assembly Complex, Oke‑Mosan, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.
He stressed the need to actively engage younger generations in trade skills. This, he said, is a strategic way to ensure sustainability and growth in the informal sector.
Elemide reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to inclusive development. He noted that the Abiodun‑led administration would continue to harness the resourcefulness of the association.
He urged the association to adopt measures to develop its members and expose them to technology. He also emphasised the importance of skill acquisition and creative innovation to improve economic competitiveness. The Speaker assured that the Assembly would continue to pass artisan‑friendly legislation.
Other lawmakers highlighted the importance of artisans in cultural preservation, economic development and job creation. They encouraged the association to adopt modern techniques, embrace innovation and work with other stakeholders to remain relevant in the evolving industrial landscape.
Earlier, in his remarks, the president of the association thanked the Ogun Assembly for supporting the group. He called for more legislation, particularly to establish a dedicated Ministry of Skills and Technical Development. He explained that such a ministry would serve as an institutional hub for capacity building, youth empowerment and innovation in the state.
In a related development, the Speaker also received a delegation from the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Opeji LCDA, on a courtesy visit. He admonished them to remain steadfast in propagating the tenet of love that Christianity signifies.
