By Aaior K. Comfort

The Association of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT) will host the Artisan Exhibition and Fair in Nigeria, showcasing some of the finest locally-made products from around the world. The event is scheduled to run from September 30 to October 2, 2024, in Abuja.

Comrade Adesina Akinyemi, ASNAT’s National Coordinator, praised Oluwatoyin Afiz Ogun, Director General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), for his support of artisans through the Skill Up Artisan (SUPA) program. He highlighted the Fund’s role in enhancing artisans’ skills through various programs and projects.

Akinyemi emphasized that the exhibition, known as the Nigerian Artisan and Technician Exhibition and Fair (NATEF) 2024, aims to boost local production and higher value-added processing in Nigeria. He called on stakeholders and the public to participate, noting that the event will offer artisans a platform to display unique products not available elsewhere.

“We hope NATEF will stimulate economic growth and support the development of local artisans and technicians,” Akinyemi said. “This fair is not just about showcasing products; it’s about creating opportunities for local artisans to shine and connect with the world.”

He also urged state governors to support the event by sponsoring at least 100 artisans from their states and appealed to the National Assembly to encourage Senators and House members to sponsor 50 artisans from each Senatorial district.

Akinyemi expressed a desire to revive recognition and appreciation for Nigerian artisans, stressing that the event is an effort to reintroduce the quality and craftsmanship of local artwork. “Our slogan is ‘Reaching out seeking attention is what we are doing right. Artisans need attention again,’” he concluded.