By Lukman Olabiyi
Artisans and technicians on the platform of the Association of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT), have expressed their readiness to hold the third edition of the Nigerian Artisans and Technicians’ Exhibitions and Fair (NATEF) in Lagos.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the National Coordinator of ASNAT, Mr. Adeshina Akinyemi, who said the upcoming edition will broaden partnerships for artisan empowerment and technical innovation.
It would be recalled that the second edition of NATEF, was held at the Velodrome, National Stadium, Abuja, from September 23 to 27, 2025.
The event brought together thousands of artisans, technicians, government officials, and industry stakeholders under the theme, “Empowering Nigerian Artisans and Technicians for National Economic Development.”
The event was organised to promote skill recognition and strengthen local content. The Fair provided a national platform for artisans to display creativity, innovation, and technical proficiency across diverse trades. It also fostered partnerships between artisans, vocational institutions, and key public and private sector stakeholders.
Akinyemi said, “The preparations are already underway for the third edition of NATEF, which is proposed to be hosted by Lagos State. The upcoming edition will further consolidate the gains achieved in Abuja and broaden partnerships for artisan empowerment and technical innovation.”
Speaking on the success of the second edition of NATEF held in Abuja last month, the National Coordinator of ASNAT expressed profound appreciation to all partners, sponsors, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the fair and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the socio-economic welfare of Nigerian artisans and technicians.
Akinyemi stated that some of the key achievements of the event include the promotion of local content and indigenous innovations, strengthened collaboration between artisans, industry, and government, enhanced awareness of CNG technology and energy transition, and the creation of market linkages and capacity-building opportunities.
The statement also noted that “Industrial Training Fund (ITF) served as the major sponsor and strategic leader of the Fair, while the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG) participated as a key technical partner, showcasing CNG conversion technologies that align with the Federal Government’s clean energy drive. Notably, over 100 vehicles were successfully converted to CNG compliance during the event.
“Other major supporters included the Ondo State Government, the Adamawa State Government and the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), which provided financial and logistical assistance, reaffirming the commitment of sub-national actors to the development of the informal and technical sectors.
“Speaking at the closing ceremony, representatives from partner agencies and artisan associations commended the fair’s impact on skill promotion, entrepreneurship, and national unity. The event also featured award presentations to outstanding artisans and associations for exceptional innovation and excellence, especially the DG of ITF for his relentless efforts toward improving the lots of artisans in the country.”
