Abuja: The Association of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT) has announced plans for the second edition of its National Artisan and Technician Exhibition and Fair (NATEF), which is set to take place in Abuja from September 23 to September 27.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Adeshina Akinyemi, the National Coordinator of ASNAT, made this announcement during a briefing in Abuja. He highlighted the success of the previous year’s event, which, despite being shortened to a single day due to national security issues, was celebrated as a significant gathering for artisan and technician groups across Africa. The upcoming 2025 edition aims to build on this success by providing a platform that promotes skill development, craftsmanship, national unity, and mutual acceptance.
Akinyemi detailed that the 2025 event will be a five-day working exhibition held at the Velodrome, National Stadium, Abuja. It will feature onsite service delivery, artisan products, skill displays, workshops, hands-on training, networking opportunities, cultural showcases, and skill development sessions. In collaboration with the Presidential Initiative on CNG (PICNG), the event will also facilitate the conversion of over 100 petrol-powered vehicles to CNG at no cost during the exhibition.
He called on stakeholders, including state governors and lawmakers, to support NATEF by sponsoring local artisans and technicians. The event is designed to highlight Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, promote cross-cultural understanding, and foster business opportunities for local artisans and technicians.
Mr. Bari Moses, National Secretary of ASNAT, emphasized that the fair represents more than just an exhibition; it is also a national call to recognize the contributions of artisans to the country’s economy. He encouraged all Nigerian artisans and development partners to participate in the event, which serves as an opportunity for artisans to showcase their skills and raise awareness among Nigerians about the quality of locally produced goods. Moses pointed out that artisans significantly contribute to the national GDP, underlining the economic importance of the sector.
