The Association of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT) has called on the 36 state governors and the Federal Capital Territory Administration to extend greater support to artisans and technicians across the country as a way of tackling unemployment and boosting local economic growth.
National Coordinator of ASNAT, Comrade Adeshina Akinyemi, made the appeal during the second edition of the Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Exhibition Fair (NATEF), held in Abuja. He said the association’s priority is job creation and skills development, stressing that state governments and other critical stakeholders must provide the enabling environment for artisans and technicians to thrive.
“The exhibition is designed to promote skills development, craftsmanship, national unity, and mutual acceptance. It will also showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, promote cross-cultural understanding, and create business opportunities,” he explained.
The 2025 edition of NATEF, which runs from September 23 to 27, is a five-day event dedicated to showcasing the expertise of Nigerian artisans. Akinyemi said the exhibition aims to become an annual tourism event capable of attracting international visitors to witness the exceptional skills of local craftsmen. He urged governors, lawmakers, and stakeholders to support NATEF by sponsoring local artisans and technicians from their states.
According to ASNAT, the fair will feature live exhibitions, workshops, networking opportunities for industry professionals and investors, cultural performances, and raffle draws with unique prizes for delegates. It will also include modern music and traditional displays from cultural troupes across the country.
As part of the exhibition, the association announced a partnership with the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PICNG), under which over 100 petrol-powered vehicles will be converted to CNG free of charge during the event. In addition, two distinguished Nigerians will be honoured with awards for their outstanding contributions in different fields and their support for artisans.
Speaking at the event, the National Lady President of ASNAT, Mrs. Jaiyeola Olatunji, urged Nigerian women to explore opportunities in trades and technical skills, including those traditionally dominated by men. She encouraged women not to be limited by cultural beliefs but to contribute their potential to the socio-economic development of the nation.
ASNAT stressed that supporting artisans and technicians would not only reduce unemployment but also stimulate local production, encourage innovation, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global creative and technical space.
