The Oyo State Government has empowered hundreds of youths, artisans, and traders through a three-day free vocational and technical training programme, as part of the 2025 Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Conference (OYO NATCO 2025) held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The programme, which focused on practical skill development and empowerment, covered key areas including gate automation, electric fence installation, smart lock systems, automated doors, CCTV installation, and solar panel setup.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, who represented Governor Seyi Makinde, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to empowering artisans and small business owners as a strategy for achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
He described artisans and technicians as “the unsung heroes transforming ideas into tangible products, driving innovation at the grassroots, and keeping our economy functioning every day.”
According to him, the programme aligns with Governor Makinde’s vision of promoting enterprise development, skill enhancement, and industrial expansion through public-private partnerships. He lauded Global Sight Services Limited (GSSL), the state’s implementing partner, for collaborating with the Ministry to organize the second edition of OYO NATCO.
Also speaking, the Assistant Director of Industrial Development and representative of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Engr. Mohammed Imam, commended the Oyo State Government and GSSL for their foresight, describing the conference theme ; “Empowering the Workforce for a Sustainable Economy” as timely and inspiring.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s support for the informal sector through training, certification, and access to finance.
The Managing Director of Global Sight Services Ltd, Mr. Dayo Bello, emphasized the importance of adapting to modern technology in the artisan sector, noting that NATCO serves as a bridge between product manufacturers, service providers, and end-users to drive innovation and competitiveness.
The three-day event featured exhibitions and interactive sessions with key regulatory and development agencies such as CAC, SON, NAFDAC, ITF, NEPC, SMEDAN, NIPC, and FCCPC, all aimed at guiding artisans on certification, standardization, and business growth.
The conference climaxed with the presentation of empowerment tools and household items to participants, including tool sets, sewing machines, generators, fans, blenders, hair dryers, and other work equipment.
Hon. Adebisi noted that empowerment is not just about training. it is about giving people the means to put that training to work.
He said “When we equip our youths and artisans with the right tools, we are helping them to build confidence, independence, and prosperity.”
Speakimg also, the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Y.K. Abass, who joined in the symbolic presentation, commended Governor Makinde’s administration for consistently supporting artisans and traders across the state.
Some beneficiaries described the gesture as life-changing. A young technician, Abideen Salami, said his new toolbox would ease his daily struggles, while a trader, Mrs. Bose Adetayo and a hairdresser, Miss Kemi Oseni expressed gratitude for receiving items that would boost their small businesses.
Organisers and participants hailed the programme as a success, describing the large turnout and positive impact as proof of citizens’ confidence in the Makinde administration’s commitment to economic empowerment and inclusive growth.
