Artisans and skilled workers in Ondo State have called on the Federal Government to extend its empowerment programmes to members of their association, arguing that they have been overlooked despite their contributions and support for the administration.
The appeal was made by the Artisan Defender and Empowerment Foundation, which said it has more than 25,000 registered members across the state.
In a statement issued on Friday and jointly signed by the Chairman of the foundation, Engr. Ogundipe James, and the General Secretary, Adebayo Olugbenga, the group urged the Federal Government to ensure artisans are not excluded from opportunities created under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the association, the foundation was established and registered with the Federal Government to promote the welfare and professional interests of artisans and skilled workers in the Niger Delta region.
The group noted that many of its members continue to face economic hardship and require access to government-backed empowerment initiatives, including skills development, financial support, business grants, equipment, and other intervention programmes aimed at improving productivity and creating sustainable livelihoods.
The association appealed to the Federal Government to consider its members in future empowerment schemes, expressing confidence that such support would strengthen small businesses, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth within Ondo State and the wider Niger Delta region.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and programmes that promote the welfare of artisans and encourage sustainable economic development.
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