Artisans in Ondo State have appealed to the Federal Government to include them in President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope empowerment programmes.
The artisans, under the Artisan Defender and Empowerment Foundation, said more than 25,000 members had been neglected despite their support for the President’s re-election bid.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the group’s Chairman and General Secretary, Engr. Ogundipe James and Adebayo Olugbenga.
The association said it was established and registered with the Federal Government to promote the interests of Niger Delta artisans and skilled workers.
It called for improved welfare, skills and vocational training, empowerment programmes, workshops and greater recognition of the political influence of its members.
The group also appealed to agencies including the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, SMEDAN and the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
According to the artisans, their deteriorating welfare situation, particularly in Ondo State, requires urgent government intervention.
They urged the relevant agencies to consider proposals previously submitted by the association to secure empowerment opportunities for its members.
The group warned that continued neglect could affect its political support for the Tinubu administration.
It also threatened to mobilise its members for a national protest if the Federal Government fails to address its demands.
The association said such inaction could have political consequences for the Renewed Hope Agenda ahead of the 2027 general election.
The development reflects growing concerns among some grassroots support groups over what they describe as inadequate recognition and empowerment despite their political backing for the administration.
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