Maroc - VERACITY.COM.NG - A La Une - 24/Sep 17:37

Ondo artisans showcase skills, tops raffle at NATEF

Ondo State artisans on Wednesday joined counterparts from across the country at the ongoing Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Exhibition & Fair (NATEF 2025), holding at the Velodrome, National Stadium, Abuja.The second day of the fair featured practical training sessions for tailors, welders, furniture makers, carpenters and other skilled professionals. The sessions combined live demonstrations with technical guidance to update artisans on modern practices and encourage peer-to-peer learning.A major highlight was the exhibition segment, where participants showcased locally crafted products, innovative designs and technical creativity. Organisers said the blend of training and exhibitions was aimed at sharpening skills while also linking artisans to wider market opportunities.National executives of the Artisans and Technicians Association of Nigeria (ASNAT), led by Comrade Adeshina Akinyemi, were present at the event. However, the day’s activities focused more on grassroots empowerment through interactive sessions rather than lengthy speeches.Stakeholders at the fair restated the goal of positioning artisans as central players in job creation, innovation and economic growth. They stressed that the programme was designed to build capacity while strengthening national integration.Ondo State participants also made their mark by winning first place in the raffle draw, a feat organisers described as a testament to their resilience and sportsmanship.With more workshops and cultural showcases scheduled, the fair continues to serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, skill advancement and opportunities for artisans across Nigeria.