By Gloria Irabor
The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has declared his commitment towards empowering artisans and technicians across the country as drivers of inclusive economic growth and cultural preservation. Delivering a good will message at the opening ceremony of the Second Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Exhibition in Abuja, the minister who was represented by his special assistant
Engr. Dr. Patricks Oghuma described the event as a movement that celebrates the ingenuity, resilience and cultural richness of Nigerian craftsmanship and the critical role artisans and technicians play in shaping the country’s industrial and economic future.
He highlighted the ministry’s ongoing efforts to integrate artisan development into Nigeria’s national innovation framework through initiatives such as the National Science, Technology and Innovation Roadmap. He also referenced the recent inauguration of the Implementation Committee for the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry and the Association of Computer Village Merchants of Nigeria (ACOVIMN) aimed at advancing information and computer technology development and technical skills acquisition.
“The federal ministry stands ready to champion policies that empower local talents, integrate indigenous technologies and promote sustainable innovation across all levels of production,” he said. The minister also called for stronger collaboration between government, academia, industry and civil society to provide artisans with access to training, finance and digital platforms that connect them to global markets. He urged stakeholders to buy Nigerian, support Nigerian and believe in Nigerian abilities and goods. He reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to fostering homegrown excellence.
The ongoing exhibition showcases the work of artisans and technicians from across Nigeria, celebrating their contributions to economic development and cultural heritage.
