Entrepreneur Tasks Artisans, Technicians On Digital Upskilling At Bauchi Forum

The convener of the Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Conference, Mr. Dayo Bello, has urged Nigerian artisans and technicians to embrace technology and upskill to remain competitive and meet global standards.

Bello disclosed this during the Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Conference, which focused on innovation and green technology, held in Bauchi.

In his welcome address, Bello said, “This is a defining moment for artisans and technicians in Bauchi and across the country. The opportunities in Bauchi State and beyond are enormous. But to fully tap into them, our people must adopt innovation, digital tools, and sustainable practices.”

The Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi came alive on July 16–17, 2025, as thousands of artisans, technicians, government officials and industry stakeholders gathered for the Nigerian Artisan and Technicians Conference — a two-day event focused on driving innovation, sustainability and the adoption of green technology in the informal sector.

The conference, themed: “Artisan Innovation: Driving Sustainable Practices and Green Technology,” was declared open by Senator Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi State, ably represented by the commissioner for commerce, industry and investment, Hon. Mohammed Salis Gamawa.

Organised by Global Sight Services Limited in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and in collaboration with the Bauchi State Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment, the event drew participation from key federal government agencies such as the Bank of Industry (BoI), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

The conference featured panel discussions, exhibitions, networking sessions, and technical workshops on key areas such as digital transformation, clean energy, sustainable craftsmanship and financial inclusion for artisans and MSMEs.

The closing ceremony on July 17 was presided over by the commissioner for cooperatives and SMEs in Bauchi State, Hon. Sadiq Hamisu Shira, who commended the organisers and expressed the state government’s continued support for artisans and small businesses.

“This gathering is a clear demonstration of our joint commitment to empowering grassroots entrepreneurs and building a sustainable future through skills, innovation and partnership,” said Hon. Shira.

Participants left the event with renewed hope, practical insights and connections to agencies and platforms that can help scale their work and grow their businesses.

The Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Conference is expected to continue as a nationwide initiative, with similar engagements planned for Oyo State from July 29 to 31 and other states across the federation in the months ahead.