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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Association of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT) has called on state governors and other key stakeholders to support skill development as a way of reducing unemployment across the country.
Speaking at a press conference to announce the second edition of the Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Exhibition Fair (NATEF), the National Coordinator of ASNAT, Adeshina Akinyemi, said the event aimed at promoting skill development, fostering national unity, and creating economic opportunities for local artisans.
Akinyemi said the five-day fair scheduled to hold from Tuesday, September 23 to Saturday, September 27, 2025, in Abuja, would showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity and the exceptional craftsmanship of artisans from across the country.
“We envision NATEF as an annual tourism event that will attract international visitors to witness the remarkable skills of Nigerian artisans. We are urging all stakeholders, including state governors, lawmakers, and development partners to sponsor local artisans and technicians to participate in this event,”Akinyemi said.
He described NATEF 2025 as a “working exhibition” designed to stimulate economic growth by promoting local production and skills. The fair will feature workshops, live demonstrations, networking sessions for industry professionals, cultural performances, and raffle draws.
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Akinyemi also highlighted the involvement of ASNAT members in the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative.
He disclosed that over 100 petrol-powered vehicles would be converted to CNG in partnership with the Presidential Initiative on CNG (PICNG) at no cost during the event.
According to him, two distinguished Nigerians would be honoured at the fair for their outstanding contributions to the development and support of Nigerian artisans.
Also speaking at the briefing, the National Lady President of ASNAT, Mrs. JaiyeolaOlatunji, urged Nigerian women to take up trades and skills, including those traditionally dominated by men.
She emphasized the importance of empowering women to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Women should not be limited by cultural norms. At ASNAT, we are committed to encouraging women’s participation in all trades and leveraging Nigeria’s cultural heritage to create inclusive business opportunities,” she said.
The National Secretary of ASNAT, Mr. Bari Moses, described the exhibition as a national platform to recognize and promote the contributions of artisans and technicians to the Nigerian economy.
