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The Director, Federal Department of Agricultural Mechanization, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Engr. Suleiman Majeed, has described Blacksmiths/Artisans and Local Fabricators as the backbone of grassroots industrialization.
Engr Majeed was speaking during the second batch of a three-day training on the production of simple food processing equipment and farm tools, held at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Ilorin, Kwara State.
Engr. Majeed said, “Considering the Federal Government’s renewed hope agenda on Agricultural Mechanization, the role of Artisans becomes imperative, as their ability to fabricate and innovate tools could transform agricultural business for farmers, processors, and SMEs.”
Represented by Engr. Hillary Aroboindsen, the Director urged participants at the workshop to engage actively, share their experiences, collaborate with one another, embrace innovation, and think sustainability in their designs and products.
Earlier, the Head of Blacksmiths/Artisans Training and Support Unit, BATSU, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Ilorin, Engr. Ibrahim Ahmed, stated that food processing is a critical sector for enhancing food security, reducing post-harvest losses, and creating economic opportunities.
“Since many small processors lack access to affordable, efficient, and locally adapted equipment, there is a need for Blacksmiths/Artisans to leverage their skills to produce simple, durable, and cost-efficient tools tailored to the nation’s needs.”
Engr. Ahmed, who noted that at least two practicing Blacksmiths/Artisans from each of the thirty-six states of the federation, including FCT, Abuja, participated in both the first and second batches of the workshop, also encouraged the trainees to transfer the knowledge of technology acquired during the training to their respective states.
By Baba Mohammed
