The Kwara State Government has again demonstrated its commitment to preserving cultural heritage, promoting entrepreneurship and job creation through handing-over of a site for the construction of a modern pottery at Dada Pottery, along Alagbado area of llorin to further boost the economy.
Dada Pottery, renowned for its traditional pottery techniques, has been a vital part of Ilorin’s cultural identity. The key features of the Modern Pottery are: the state-of-the-art facilities for clay pot production, training centres for artisans to develop new skills, exhibition areas to showcase local pottery and enhanced working conditions for artisans.
The State Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun stated this during an official handing-over of the site for constructing a modern pottery at Dada Pottery, along Alagbado, llorin.
The Commissioner noted that the innovative project is aimed at enhancing clay pot production, providing a conducive environment for artisans to thrive, saying this project is expected to create jobs, and promote cultural tourism in Kwara State.
Hon. Damilola added that the modern pottery will also provide opportunities for artisans to access new markets and customers as well as enhance clay pot production, while reiterating that the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration is dedicated to empowering local communities and preserving our cultural heritage.
She stated that the modern pottery site is also set to become a hub for creative expression of economic growth in llorin.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary urged the Contractor to take cognisance of security personnel and the immediate community for safety purpose and deliver the project on time.
In his goodwill message, the Senior Adviser and Counsellor to Kwara State Governor Alhaji Salahudeen Sadudeen expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the construction of a modern pottery space at Dada, Ibagun ward, Ilorin East. He emphasized that the project reflects the governor’s dedication to fostering local enterprise and empowering grassroots communities, particularly the youth and women involved in traditional crafts.
Similarly, the Special Adviser to Kwara State Governor on Special Duties, Alhaji AbdulRasaq Jiddah commended the governor’s visionary leadership and also highlighted that the facility will not only preserves the rich cultural heritage of pottery making but also creates new opportunities for artisans to thrive, contributing to the socio-economic development of the state.
Technical assistant to Kwara State Governor on Project Delivery, Hon. Adebayo AbdulLateef in his goodwill message hailed Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for delivering the much-needed modern pottery space in Dada, Ibagun ward. He noted that the project demonstrates the governor’s commitment to timely and impactful infrastructure delivery, which directly benefits the local community and enhances productivity among artisans.
In his remarks, the Alangua of Ibagun, Alhaji Zakariyah Iyanda praised the Kwara State governor for his relentless efforts to support traditional industries like pottery. He expressed deep appreciation for the new pottery space at Dada, describing it as a project that will transform the economic landscape of the area, ensuring that Ibagun maintains its historical significance as a pottery hub.
Earlier speaking at the event, The Iyaloja of Ebu Market, Alhaja Raliat Saka has commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for prioritizing the needs of local traders and artisans with the construction of the modern pottery facility at Dada. She stressed that the initiative will uplift women who rely on pottery for their livelihoods and create a vibrant trading environment in the community.
The Contractor, Clay of Lagos, Mallam Idris Olabode, thanked the State government for giving him the opportunity to take up the task and promised to deliver the project at the stipulated time frame of six months.
In attendance were the Project Manager, Mr. Rafiu Bayo Adeniran; Desk Officer of the Project, Hajia Muslimat Mosunmola Zakariyah and others.
Taibat Baba Adams,
Press Secretary,
MBIT.
