Kosofe, Lagos – January 2025 – The Co-Workshop and Tool Empowerment Initiative (CTE), a flagship project of CTE Project Limited, is transforming the lives of artisans and entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s informal sector by addressing the challenges of unemployment, inequality, and access to tools and skills.
With the unwavering support of Honourable Kafilat Ogbara, CTE is paving the way for sustainable growth in the Kosofe constituency. Since its inception in July 2024, the initiative has focused on empowering underserved communities through skills training, shared workspaces, and affordable access to tools.

Milestones Achieved in 2024
CTE’s journey began with a deep commitment to understanding the needs of the community. By engaging stakeholders such as Lagos State Council of Technicians and Artisans (LASCOTA), artisans, and MSMEs, CTE conducted a comprehensive needs assessment to identify high-demand trades and key challenges.

Co-Creation session

Key highlights include:
• Targeted Needs Assessment: Over 1,300 individuals participated, with professions like hairstylists, welders, furniture makers, mechanics, and makeup artists topping the list.
• Partnerships with Industry Leaders: Collaborations with Bosch Tools, Sleek Make-Up, Oraimo, Hair by Julie,Nigeria gas and transport solutions limited helped lay the groundwork for impactful training programs and support systems.
• Train-the-Trainer Sessions: In November 2024, Sleek Make-Up trained 10 makeup artists, who pledged to share their knowledge with others in their communities, fostering a cycle of empowerment. In December 2024, 30 mechanics received training on converting vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG), supporting Nigeria’s green energy goals

Sleek pro training to upskill make-up artist
What to Expect in 2025
Building on these foundations, CTE is set to scale its impact in 2025, with plans to launch shared CTE hubs and introduce more tailored programs.
Key Initiatives:
• Launch of CTE Hubs: Starting with Agboyi-Ketu, these hubs will offer:
o Affordable tool rentals for artisans, including power tools for construction, furniture making, and plumbing.
o Fully equipped beauty workstations for makeup artists, barbers, hairstylists, and nail technicians.
o Subsidized rates to make tools and workspaces accessible to all.
• Skill Training Programs:
o Bosch Tools will train 150 artisans in advanced power tool usage for carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
o Oraimo will empower barbers with eco-friendly grooming tools and modern techniques.
o A Beginner Beauty Training program will provide 250 participants (including 200 women) with foundational skills to start their careers.

Empowering Local Communities
CTE’s initiatives are designed to create ripple effects of empowerment. The hubs will not only enhance productivity but also lower the cost of services like barbing and hairstyling for the Kosofe community.
“At CTE, we believe that empowerment goes beyond tools and training—it’s about creating opportunities and building resilience in our communities,” said Olutayo Solarin, Founder of CTE.
Looking to the Future
With a goal to onboard 2,000 individuals onto the CTE platform in 2025, the initiative is also developing a digital platform to connect artisans to customers, providing visibility and accessibility like never before.
Honourable Ogbara’s steadfast support remains a cornerstone of CTE’s success. Her vision for sustainable development continues to inspire CTE’s work, ensuring that artisans and MSMEs in Kosofe are equipped to thrive despite economic challenges.
Join the Movement
CTE invites artisans and entrepreneurs to register for upcoming training sessions and explore the opportunities offered by the new hubs. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the tools to succeed.
For more information:
• Phone: 0814 522 3553
• Website: www.cte.com.ng
About CTE
The Co-Workshop and Tool Empowerment Initiative (CTE) is a technology-driven solution empowering Nigerian artisans and entrepreneurs with equitable access to tools, skills, and shared workspaces.