No fewer than 600 artisans who are members of the state chapter of Blacksmith, Welders, Iron Benders, and Metal Technicians Association of Nigeria,( BWIAN) benefited from a N250m empowerment initiative of a member of the National Assembly, representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, Hon.Aderemi Oseni
Daily Trust reports that the beneficiaries were presented with modern working equipment such as 9.8kva generator, welding machines and iron grinder at the event held at Bembo Game Village, Apata, in the Ido Local Government Area of the state.
Oseni also launched an interest free N50m Cooperative scheme tagged” Remi Oseni Soludero Cooperative scheme” for the artisans to access to support their trade.
He said the gesture was his personal effort having been driven by the goal to make life better for the people.
The lawmaker added that it was designed to boost the nation’s skills, productivity, and business potential of metal artisans across the state.
The lawmaker commended the resilience and economic contributions of blacksmiths, welders, and other metal workers in the state.
The lawmaker said, “This is not just a celebration of progress, but a commitment to uplift the industrious metal workers of the state.
“This empowerment initiative is part of my broader agenda to provide resources and support to artisans. The programme will equip BWIAN members with tools, machinery, and financial assistance, enabling them to enhance their trade and improve their livelihoods.”
Oseni, who chairs the House committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), outlined various educational initiatives, including sponsoring over 700 students for JAMB examinations and providing free WAEC registration for 400 students in 2024.
The federal lawmaker also celebrated the ongoing success of his “Raising 100 Youth Millionaires Project,” which has produced 12 young millionaires since its inception in December 2023 assuring that the second phases of the project will come up soon.
In his remarks, the Governor General of the BWIAN in the state, Alhaji Munirudeen Adegoke, in his remarks called on political office holders and well meaning Nigerians to emulate the humanitarian spirit in Hon.Oseni by supporting small and medium scale entrepreneurs in the country.
He commended the lawmaker for the kind gesture , assuring that the equipment would be judiciously utilised for the benefit of the members.
The event featured the presentation of certificate and award of recognition to Hon Remi Oseni as Grand Governor General of BWIAN.
