NAN-H-63
Villages
By Taiye Baiyerohi
Lagos, Dec. 29, 2016 (NAN) A Sculptor, Mrs Funmilola Olofinjana, has urged the Federal Government to establish craft villages around the country to boost inbound tourism and encourage Nigerians to involve in crafts.
Olofinjana told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday that over the years, Nigerian crafts had not garnered sufficient advertisement locally and internationally because of the absence of craft villages.
The sculptor said with the establishment of craft villages in each geo-political zone or each state of the federation, inbound tourism would be boosted, likewise job creation.
According to her, most Nigerians do not know they can get beautiful hand crafted items in the country.
She, however, said that when the craft villages were in place, people would be able to access them easily.
Olofinjana explained that with the Federal Government’s call for the use of made-in-Nigeria goods, Nigerians needed to be aware of the availability of certain goods.
“During exhibitions in Bukina faso, I had heard a lot of Nigerians saying that they never knew some crafts displayed were from Nigeria.
“Our crafts are so unique and neat compared with those from other countries; I can say this because I have had the opportunity to exhibit my wears in over 10 African countries.
“There should be craft villages in each geo- political zone or each state, where craftsmen and women can make and display their works constantly for both local and international tourists.
“Moreover, a lot of craftsmen and women have no place to showcase their works, but this will be a good platform for display,’’ she said.
The sculptor said that the craft villages would give room for mass production of some craft items like: baskets, carvings, bead works, shoes, bags and more. (NAN)
PTB/COF/MO
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Edited by Oluyinka Fadare/Morayo Omolade