Iyunadeoluwa Abayomi
Artisans across Oyo State are increasingly embracing digital skills as they seek to improve their businesses, reach more customers and participate more actively in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
The development followed a community-focused digital skills workshop held in Ibadan on August 22, 2026, which brought together hundreds of artisans from various trades.
The initiative, led by technology entrepreneur Temitope Ajibola, provided practical training for electricians, plumbers, carpenters, mechanics, painters, air-conditioning technicians and other skilled professionals on how digital tools could improve their businesses and increase their visibility.
The programme received the support of Ibadan North Local Government, led by Executive Chairman Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, as part of efforts to promote digital inclusion, skills development and economic opportunities for skilled workers within the community.
Participants were trained in areas including online customer acquisition, personal branding, pricing, financial literacy, digital payments, customer service and the practical application of emerging artificial intelligence tools.
The training also focused on helping artisans establish stronger digital profiles and communicate more effectively with existing and potential customers.
According to the organisers, many skilled workers have traditionally relied on referrals and word-of-mouth to attract customers. However, the growing use of digital platforms means that online visibility is becoming increasingly important for businesses seeking to remain competitive.
Ajibola said having a technical skill was no longer sufficient in an increasingly digital marketplace, stressing the need for artisans to understand how to position their skills and businesses online.
He noted that technology should create opportunities not only for people working directly in the technology sector but also for skilled professionals whose services are essential to communities.
A technology professional who facilitated part of the training, Stephen Oyerinde, said the objective was not to turn artisans into technology experts but to help them understand tools that could make their existing businesses more visible, efficient and competitive.
The programme also featured professional-development sessions focused on customer engagement, professional presentation and business growth.
For some participants, the training has already produced noticeable results. Jamiu Alabi, a plumber who attended the workshop, said the experience had improved his approach to business and helped him attract new customers.
The initiative highlights the growing importance of extending digital inclusion beyond conventional technology professionals to workers in Nigeria’s informal economy.
As more customers search for services online, communicate through digital channels and make electronic payments, artisans with digital skills could be better positioned to showcase their services, connect with wider markets and grow their businesses.
Ajibola called for more initiatives aimed at equipping artisans and other skilled professionals with relevant digital competencies, stressing that they should not be left behind as Nigeria advances its digital transformation.
The workshop provided participants with practical skills and certifications while demonstrating how collaboration between technology professionals, community leaders and local governments could help address the economic challenges facing skilled workers.
