Be Innovative, Dynamic, Sanwo-Olu Charges Artisans on Business Growth

Segun James

As the Lagos State government increases its financial subvention to the Lagos State Council of tradesmen and artisans from N6 million to N15 million, the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has charged them to be committed to innovation, and new training in their trade in order to excel.

Sanwo-Olu, who gave the charge  yesterday at the 12th graduation ceremony of 1,200 up skilled tradesmen and artisans in Lagos State, said the training for the artisans and tradesmen was to create opportunities for them, and make them to be more effective and efficient in their chosen field, so that, they can become employer of labour. The governor explained that by engaging more hands in their trade, they will reduce number of unemployment.

“You are here to do new things, to do the things people think they can’t do. You will create opportunities to reduce unemployment. We will give you equipment today, so  you can work at creating more bigger opportunities for yourself. You have to keep learning to develop yourself, we enjoin  you to continue to learn  and unlearn, not just a skill worker, but  a role model, enjoin others to learn from you.” 

He also charged the artisan to take advantage of the state Employment Trust Fund, which can give them loan to expand their trade at a reduced rate, not exceeding  five per cent per annum.

Earlier in his speech, the state Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyele Akingbotafe, said the training was to equip the artisan with technical skill  to enhance their efficiency, give them vital information that will bring about innovation in their skill.

He therefore, urged the participants to always have positive mindset about their profession and as well contribute their quota to the development of the economy of the state, just as he commended the state governor for the growth of his ministry and support for the artisans.