The Ekiti State government has earmarked N20 million as soft loans for artisans in the state, just as it declared August 6 as Artisans’ Day in the state to appreciate their contributions to the development of the state.
Also, the state government will soon set up a board to promote the activities of artisans in various fields and incorporate them into the developmental plan of the state.
Governor Ayo Fayose stated this during a meeting he had with artisans in Ado- Ekiti.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, in Ado-Ekiti yesterday, the Governor said the role of artisans could not be over-emphasised.
The initial seed money for the soft loans would be N10 million and the remaining sum of N10 million would be added later.
He added that each artisan would be entitled to a maximum of N50,000 and that they would be given two weeks grace before they start repaying N1000 weekly.
The President of Ekiti Artisans, Mr J.O. Adu, praised Fayose for his support for the members and requested further assistance.
This came in the wake of a commendation by the organised labour in Ekiti State, which appreciated Governor Fayose for his love for workers in the state.
In a statement jointly signed by the Nigeria Labour Congress Secretary, Com Olayemi Oluropo, Trade Union Congress Secretary, Com Adebayo Adebisi and Joint Negotiating Council Secretary, Com Oladele Blessing, the organised labour commended the governor for bringing smiles to the faces of workers.