The Bank of Industry has moved to empower artisans, technicians for future industrial development, describing them as the nation’s backbone and future.
The Managing Director, BOI, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, disclosed this at the Nigerian Artisans Leadership Summit 2025, stating that the bank views Nigeria’s over 12 million artisans as key drivers of grassroots enterprise and national transformation. The summit had as its theme: “Unlocking the Inherent Potential of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians.”
Olusi, who was represented by the Executive Director, Public Sector and Intervention Programmes, BOI, Ms Mabel Ndagi said the theme goes to the heart of inclusive development, as it aims to spotlight the challenges faced by craftsmen.
Besides, she added that it presents an avenue to chart a new course for empowerment and integration into the formal economy, including supporting the country’s vision where talent is not wasted due to lack of support; where enterprise is not stifled by lack of access, and where informal skills are not excluded from formal opportunities.
“The challenges faced by artisans such as limited access to affordable finance, lack of research and development, outdated equipment, inadequate training, poor business structures, and minimal export participation require urgent and structured intervention, as the bank is anchoring its 2025–2027 Corporate Strategy on six thematic pillars.
“These include strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, promoting youth empowerment and skills development, expanding opportunities within the digital economy, advancing climate resilience and sustainability initiatives, investing in critical infrastructure, and ensuring gender inclusion across all interventions,” Olusi said.
Credit: punchng.com
