Emmanuel Thomas
May 14, 2015 – Not less than 2,000 tradesmen and artisans have graduated from the Lagos State Tradesmen and Artisans Empowerment Programme (LASTAEP) after completing 8 weeks intensive training programme.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Commerce and Industry, Mr. Oluseye Oladejo who made the revelation at the 6th Tradesmen and Artisans Day and Graduation ceremony said training of the artisans and tradesmen was sponsored by the Lagos State Government.
He said that a total of 9, 780 members of different registered associations have been trained from inception to date.
In his address, President, Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA) thanked the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola for continuous training of members, donation of 16 seater Toyota bus and patronage of services offered by members.
He however reminded the governor to complete the Gberigbe Enterprise Zone with standard workshop, allocation of land for secretariat; extension of Hajj and Jerusalem Pilgrimage slots to members and provision of annual subvention or allocation to strengthen the operation of LACOSTA secretariat.
He said his members showed appreciation for what government has done by voting massively for the All Progressive Congress(APC) during the general election.
In his address, Fashola thanked the artisans and tradesmen for the support during the election and urged them to continue to support the coming administration.
Highlight of the event is the presentation of certificates to graduates and award to 6 members who were outstanding during the 8 weeks training. Some hairdressers also used the occasion to exhibit different styles of hairdo. Comedians and musicians who are relatively unknown were also given opportunity to showcase their skills before the teeming audience.
Items exhibited at the occasion include honey, footwear, local fabrics and pastries some were produced right there on the spot.
