Lagos Assembly moves to regulate artisans, craftsmen with new bill

The Lagos State House of Assembly has approved a new bill aimed at regulating the registration and professional activities of artisans and craftsmen in the state. The bill, presented by the House Committee on Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, seeks to establish the Lagos State Artisans and Craftsmen Regulatory Board. This board will be tasked with overseeing the registration, training, certification and professional conduct of artisans and craftsmen operating across Lagos.

The committee chairman, Tobun Abiodun, emphasized the growing need for regulation due to the industry's expansion and diversity. He stressed that the new framework would ensure practitioners possess the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver quality services while protecting consumers from poor workmanship. The bill also proposes provisions for government funding and support to help registered artisans and craftsmen expand their businesses and improve their professional skills.

Foreign nationals with relevant training and qualifications obtained outside Nigeria are also eligible for registration. The lawmakers adopted the committee's recommendations, and the Speaker instructed the Clerk of the House to transmit the bill to the governor for assent.