More than 15,000 artisans and traders have been trained in various skills development by the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) as part of efforts to boost self-sufficiency in the state.
This was disclosed by the Skills Development Specialist, Engr. Adesegun Fatoki, during a stakeholders’ meeting organised for market women, artisans, and traders at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
In a statement by OGSTEP’s Project Communications Officer, Simbo Olayinka, Fatoki provided a statistical breakdown of the training, noting that 6,605 participants enrolled in vocational/ICT programs, 4,989 in entrepreneurship, and 5,288 in functional literacy training.
He explained that the OSF training equips participants with the skills to manage their income and operate businesses effectively.
“To date, over 4,000 beneficiaries have completed their training under the first batch, while the second batch is currently underway across various trades. The third phase will target market women, artisans, and traders, bringing the program closer to local communities,” Fatoki said.
He encouraged eligible participants to register for the ongoing third batch via the website www.osf.ogunstate.gov.ng to access demand-driven skills training at designated centres across the state.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to the program, Fatoki emphasised that the training is non-partisan and designed to benefit market women, artisans, and traders.
Speaking on the program’s impact, OGSTEP’s Gender Specialist, Mrs Ewajesu, highlighted its goal of empowering participants with critical skills for today’s competitive economic environment. She added that the training enhances literacy and business management capacities, boosting productivity and strengthening Ogun State’s economic fabric.
Representatives of traders’ associations from Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, and Egba areas expressed gratitude to the state government for the initiative, pledging to mobilise their members for active participation.
The stakeholders’ meeting underscored OGSTEP’s dedication to fostering economic growth through skill acquisition, with beneficiaries optimistic about the program’s transformative impact on their communities.
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