NADECO Chieftain, Opadokun Rates ASLAT High, Calls For Its National Recognition

Describes artisans, technicians as core of any nation 

ASLAT presents awards to Sanwo-Olu, Obasa, Opadokun, others 

The Secretary of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and elder statesman, Mr. Ayo Opadokun, on Wednesday, described artisans and technicians as the core of any nation. He therefore charged the federal and state governments to utilise the strength in their numbers to propel the growth of Nigeria’s economy.

He also called for recognition of the Association of Lagos Artisans and Technicians (ASLAT) as a national union, saying ASLAT as an organisation is capable of attaining national recognition.

Opadodun spoke on Wednesday after receiving an award of recognition at the Mid-year thanksgiving and award ceremony of ASLAT held in Lagos.

The NADECO chieftain noted that in developed economies around the world, artisans and technicians are constantly being engaged and included in policy-making, thereby enabling them to contribute their quota to humanity.

Speaking earlier, the President of ASLAT, Lawrence Ajayi appealed to governments at all levels to prioritise the welfare of artisans and technicians, particularly with the ongoing economic realities in the country.

Ajayi, who commended members for their perseverance in the face of the current realities, charged the government on the engagement of local artisans and technicians on state projects, saying it will enable them to contribute to the development and growth of the economy.

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Also speaking, Lagos State Secretary of ASLAT, Adeshina Akinyemi, who listed power supply, funding and access to credit loans and non-availability of original raw materials as challenges bedeviling the Association, said the Thanksgiving and Award Ceremony was organised to celebrate members and partners who have contributed to the growth of the Association.

During the event, which was attended by hundreds of artisans and technicians across Lagos State, the Leadership Excellence Award was presented to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa and NADECO chieftain, Mr. Ayo Opadokun received Community Service Award and Special Recognition Award respectively.

There were also presentations of certificates of dedication to 17 clusters under the  Association of Lagos Artisans and Technicians (ASLAT).