- Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to empowering artisans through skills development and enterprise support.
- The Deputy Governor described artisans as the backbone of the state’s informal economy and key contributors to economic growth.
- Stakeholders called for stronger collaboration to expand vocational training, employment opportunities and business development for artisans.
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to empowering artisans and skilled workers through vocational training, innovation and enterprise development, describing them as critical drivers of Lagos’ economy.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Dr. Hamzat made the pledge during the 2026 Tradesmen and Artisans Day Celebration, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment to recognise the invaluable contributions of artisans and tradesmen to the socio-economic development of the state.
Addressing participants, the Deputy Governor described artisans and skilled professionals as the backbone of Lagos’ informal economy, noting that their services sustain businesses, households and industries across the state.
He said the government remains committed to implementing policies and programmes that enhance the productivity of artisans by providing access to modern skills, improved working tools and greater economic opportunities.
“Our artisans and tradesmen are indispensable to the growth and prosperity of Lagos State. Their dedication, resilience and craftsmanship continue to drive productivity, create jobs and support businesses across our communities,” Hamzat said.
According to him, investing in vocational education and skills acquisition remains one of the most effective ways of reducing unemployment, promoting entrepreneurship and strengthening the state’s workforce.
The Deputy Governor explained that many small businesses and local industries rely heavily on the expertise of artisans, making continuous investment in their development essential for sustainable economic growth.
He commended artisans for their resilience and commitment to excellence despite prevailing economic challenges, assuring them that the Lagos State Government would continue to create an enabling environment for them to thrive.
“We will continue to invest in training, innovation and enterprise development so that our artisans remain competitive in an evolving economy and are well-positioned to seize emerging opportunities,” he added.
Dr. Hamzat also encouraged young people to embrace vocational education and technical skills, describing them as viable pathways to financial independence, innovation and wealth creation.
He noted that empowering skilled workers would not only improve livelihoods but also contribute significantly to inclusive economic growth and the overall development of Lagos State.
Participants at the event expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for recognising the role of artisans in nation-building and for introducing programmes aimed at improving their welfare and productivity.
Many attendees described the celebration as a morale booster that reaffirmed the importance of professionalism, dedication and continuous skills development in their various trades.
Stakeholders also commended the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment for organising the annual celebration, noting that recognising artisans inspires greater productivity while promoting the value of vocational careers.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to expanding employment opportunities, vocational training and business development initiatives that will empower artisans and skilled professionals across Lagos State.
The event concluded with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between government, artisans and private sector stakeholders to accelerate economic growth, create jobs and strengthen the state’s skilled workforce.
