The Association of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT) has restated its readiness to empower Nigerian artisans and technicians, drive economic growth, and promote local production.

National Coordinator of the Association, Mr Adeshina Akinyemi, made the disclosure in Abuja during an official unveiling of the 2nd edition of the Nigerian Artisans and Tecnicians Exhibitions and Fair (NATEF) on Tuesday.

Akinyemi, who was basking in the euphoria of the 1st edition of the event, noted that the working exhibition was designed to stimulate economic growth by promoting local production and processing activities by supporting Artisans and technicians nationwide.

“We envision NATEF as an annual tourism event, attracting international visitors to witness Nigerian artisans’ exceptional skills.

“We urge all stakeholders, including state governors and lawmakers, to support NATEF by sponsoring local artisans and technicians in their states,” he said.

Akinyemi therefore, called for partnership between the association and individuals, corporate organisations, NGOs, and international agencies.

The duo of Comrade Bari Moses and Mrs Jaiyeola Onipede Olatunji, the Association National Secretary and National Lady President/LoC NATEF 2025 Chairperson also spoke.

In his words, Moses urged support for artisans, stressing that the platform provides an avenue for them to contribute more to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

For Olatunji, she particularly encouraged participation on the part of women, saying the association has been encouraging more trainings as a way of breaking the barriers, especially in the non-female dominated vocations.