FG, EGO Foundation, and Access Corporation Equip Artisans to Boost Entrepreneurship

Funmi Ogundare

On Wednesday, the Federal Government trained more than 120 artisans in a range of high‑demand vocational skills and supplied them with work tools and starter kits to foster business growth and self‑employment. The effort is part of the government’s push to strengthen vocational education and economic empowerment.

The program was run by the Federal Ministry of Education in partnership with the EGO Foundation and supported by Access Corporation. It aimed to boost the technical and entrepreneurial abilities of artisans and aspiring entrepreneurs in selected trades.

Participants received intensive, hands‑on training in garment making and fashion design, beauty and cosmetology, solar installation and maintenance, hospitality management, catering and food services, entrepreneurship development, and business management.

“The training is designed to improve employability and equip participants with the practical knowledge, technical expertise and business skills needed to create sustainable livelihoods and contribute to economic development,” said Toluwase Olaniyan, Executive Director of the EGO Foundation.

In addition to technical instruction, beneficiaries were given entrepreneurial and business‑management support to strengthen existing enterprises or launch new ventures.

Recognizing that skills alone are insufficient, Access Corporation supplied essential work tools and starter kits. The resources are intended to enable participants to apply their new skills immediately, expand their businesses, boost productivity, and generate sustainable income.

Olaniyan praised the Federal Ministry of Education and Access Corporation for empowering Nigerians through practical skills development. He described the program as a demonstration of the impact that can be achieved when government, the private sector, and development partners collaborate to tackle unemployment and poverty.

Although the training has concluded, Olaniyan urged beneficiaries to continue building on what they have learned, use the tools provided, create sustainable businesses, generate employment, and contribute to community development.

“This initiative is a powerful example of what can be achieved when government, the private sector and development organisations work together towards a common goal. We commend the Federal Ministry of Education for its leadership in advancing vocational education and Access Corporation for its investment in the future of these artisans through the provision of tools and starter kits,” he said.

He added that the program marks the beginning of a new journey for participants, encouraging them to keep improving their craft and become ambassadors of excellence and entrepreneurship in their fields.

Stakeholders emphasized the importance of practical skills acquisition for addressing unemployment and fostering entrepreneurship. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that the training and support would significantly enhance their economic prospects.

They highlighted that the collaboration among the Federal Ministry of Education, EGO Foundation, and Access Corporation showcases the role of strategic public‑private partnerships in promoting youth empowerment, skills development, and inclusive economic growth across the country.