BOI reaffirms commitment to empowering over 12 million artisans

The Bank of Industry (BOI) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to empowering Nigerian artisans and technicians, describing them as the backbone of inclusive economic growth and the future of the country’s industrial development.

Speaking at the Nigerian Artisans Leadership Summit 2025, the Managing Director of BOI, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, said the bank views Nigeria’s over 12 million artisans as key drivers of grassroots enterprise and national transformation.

The event’s theme is “Unlocking the Inherent Potential of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians.”

The summit brought together leaders of the artisan community, development partners, government representatives, and stakeholders to spotlight the challenges faced by craftsmen, while also charting a new course for their empowerment and integration into the formal economy.

Represented by the Executive Director, Public Sector and Intervention Programmes, Ms Mabel Ndagi, the BOI boss said the theme goes to the heart of inclusive development.

He noted further that the theme speaks to a vision of Nigeria where talent is not wasted due to lack of support, where enterprise is not stifled by lack of access, and where informal skills are not excluded from formal opportunities.

According to the BOI MD, the challenges faced by artisans, such as limited access to affordable finance, lack of research and development, outdated equipment, inadequate training, poor business structures, and minimal export participation, require urgent and structured intervention.