The Progressive Tradesmen and Artisans Association of Nigeria (PROTAAN), Oyo State chapter, has honored the Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Asiwaju Akeem Olatunji, with a Best Performance Award in recognition of his support for artisans and grassroots economic development.
The award was presented yesterday by the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Barrister Adeniyi Adebisi at the 2025 edition of PROTAAN Day held at the House of Chiefs, Oyo state assembly complex.
Barrister Adeniyi commended Olatunji for championing what was described as the Seyi Makinde effect at the grassroots by transforming the socioeconomic life of traders and the grassroots people, assuring that the state government will not provide the enabling environment for businesses to thrive but also continue to encourage collaborations and partnerships with stakeholders.
PROTAAN Day celebration is an annual event that brings together craftsmen, traders, and stakeholders from across the state to reflect on progress within the informal sector and celebrate leadership that has made a difference.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of PROTAAN in Oyo State, Chief Kamorudeen Salahudeen, said the recognition was a collective decision by members of the association, who, according to him, have felt the impact of the Oluyole Local Government chairman’s policies and direct engagement with artisans.
He noted that under Olatunji’s leadership, artisans in Oluyole have enjoyed increased inclusion in local government programmes, improved dialogue with authorities, and deliberate efforts aimed at strengthening small scale businesses.
He described the chairman as a grassroots administrator who understands the realities of those who earn their living through skills and trades operating at the grassroots.
In his brief remarks shortly after receiving the award, Olatunji expressed gratitude to PROTAAN for the honor, describing the award as both humbling and motivating.
He said artisans remain the backbone of the local economy and pledged that his administration would continue to prioritize policies that promote skills development, access to opportunities, and a more enabling environment for tradesmen and women.
The PROTAAN Day 2025 event attracted artisans from different parts of Oyo State and featured goodwill messages from government officials and community leaders.
Among those in attendance were the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun; chairman of Oyo State Youth Development Agency, Prince Adebowale Falana, Leader of Oluyole Local Government Legislative House, Hon. Taofeek Azeez and other top state and local government officials.