By Victor Okoye
Say it Loud Africa on Thursday announced plans to host the Artisan Summit and Expo (TASE) 2026, aimed at addressing challenges limiting artisans’ growth through empowerment, profitability and financial inclusion.
The initiative is designed to bring together artisans and stakeholders from the public and private sectors to explore practical solutions for improved access to finance, training and business structuring.
Mr Femi Oyelade, Advocate for Artisans and Creative Director, Say it Loud Africa, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the summit was conceived to bridge long-standing gaps in Nigeria’s informal sector.
NAN reports that the summit will also focus on skills development, mentorship and innovative approaches to reposition artisans for sustainable economic participation.
“Artisans are critical to Nigeria’s economy, yet many lack access to finance and proper business structure. TASE is designed to change that narrative,” Oyelade said.
He noted that the informal sector accounts for a significant share of employment and economic activity, stressing the need for deliberate interventions to unlock its full potential.
According to him, the summit will promote structured business practices that enable artisans to become registered, bankable and globally competitive.
“We want to see artisans operate as structured businesses; registered, bankable, and globally competitive,” he said.
Oyelade added that the three-day summit would feature discussions, exhibitions and networking opportunities in an “edutainment” format designed to attract both artisans and consumers.
He said participants would include entrepreneurs, apprentices, financial institutions, corporate organisations and development partners.
“The goal is to create a platform that delivers practical solutions and long-term value for artisans and the wider economy,” he said.
Oyelade called on stakeholders in the public and private sectors to partner with the initiative to ensure its success.
“For more information, visit https://www.theartisanhub.ng,” he added. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
