Artisans in Ondo State Seek FG Empowerment Under Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda

A group of artisans and skilled workers in Ondo State, operating under the umbrella of the Artisan Defender and Empowerment Foundation, has made a passionate appeal to the Federal Government to be included in various empowerment programs initiated by President Bola Tinubu's administration. According to a statement released by the group's Chairman, Engr. Ogundipe James, and General Secretary, Adebayo Olugbenga, over 25,000 members of the association have been neglected despite their significant support for President Tinubu's re-election. The Artisan Defender and Empowerment Foundation was established and registered with the Federal Government with the primary objective of promoting the interests of Niger Delta artisans and skilled workers. The group is seeking government support through empowerment initiatives, including better welfare, skills and vocational training, as well as recognition of their political strength. The statement highlighted the deteriorating condition of artisan welfare in Ondo State and the need for immediate attention from relevant government agencies, such as the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, the Directorate of the Office of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria. The group warned that failure to address their demands could lead to a national protest and have significant consequences for the President's administration in the 2027 election.