Dr Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK) is a gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State in 2027.
The trajectory of a nation’s economic growth and development is deeply intertwined with the influence of trade and the activities of traders. The sensitive effect of trading on a nation’s economy cannot be overstated – it has the potential to either stimulate or stifle economic progress. In the context of our own society, Nigeria, the importance of trade and commerce in driving economic growth and development is paramount. The nation’s economy has historically been characterised by a strong informal sector, with market traders and artisans playing a vital role in the distribution of goods and services.
I see the relationship between traders and artisans as a symbiotic one, with each playing a critical role in determining the scale of economic activity in a given region or sector. Traders are the lifeblood of the economy, they provide essential goods and services to consumers, while artisans contribute to the economy through their skilled craftsmanship and production of locally made goods. The activities of these two groups are crucial in building a sustainable and viable economic community, they, indeed, provide employment opportunities, stimulate innovation, and facilitate the circulation of goods and services. The informal sector, which is dominated by traders and artisans, and majorly by women, serves as a buffer against economic shocks, providing a safety net for vulnerable populations during times of economic uncertainty.
The importance of traders and artisans in driving economic growth and development cannot be overstated, irrespective of the season and setting. These groups are the backbone of the economy, they provide essential goods and services, stimulate innovation, and facilitate the circulation of goods and services. The informal sector, which is dominated by traders and artisans is an incubator for entrepreneurship and innovation, – it provides a platform for small businesses and start-ups to emerge and thrive. As such, it is imperative that policymakers and stakeholders rethink and prioritise the needs of these groups, and provide them with the necessary support and resources to thrive.
On the 25th of January, 2025, I was honoured to attend the Special Prayer/Lecture organised by the Amalgamation of Oyo Market Traders and Artisans as Chairman of the Occasion, where I presented a talk on the Unity of the Association. In my remarks, I emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation among traders and artisans, even highlighting the need for collective action in promoting their interests and advancing their welfare. I noted that unity is essential in building a strong and working economic community that is capable of withstanding economic shocks and seizing opportunities for growth and development. I stressed the need for traders and artisans to work together in promoting their interests, advocate for policies and programs that support their activities, and provide mutual support and assistance in times of need. I also graciously donated the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000) to support the association and its activities.
I firmly believe that market traders and artisans are a sensitive part of Oyo State’s economy, and their contributions are essential in driving economic growth and development. Without their input, the economy would be severely impaired, and the state would miss out on critical opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. I acknowledge the struggles that traders and artisans face, and I am committed to working with them to address their challenges and promote their welfare. I thank the Amalgamation of Oyo Market Traders and Artisans for inviting me to chair the occasion and present a talk, and I look forward to continuing to work with them, in even greater capacity in promoting the interests of traders and artisans in Oyo State.
Oyo 2027
AKK 2027
Governor 2027
AKK! Aseyori ni tiwa.
AKK!! Ajose Ajoje
AKK!!! A Task that must be done.
Friday, 14thFebruary, 2025