According to a report by the Kwara State Government Facebook Handle, the state has taken a significant step in preserving cultural heritage and promoting economic growth by officially handing over the site for the construction of a modern pottery facility at Dada Pottery, located along Alagbado in Ilorin. This initiative aligns with the government's broader goal of promoting entrepreneurship and job creation in the state.

The new modern pottery facility will feature state-of-the-art equipment for clay pot production, training centers to help artisans acquire new skills, exhibition spaces to display local craftsmanship, and improved working conditions for the artisans who have long been a part of Dada Pottery's rich history. This development is expected to boost local production and attract cultural tourism, further contributing to the state's economy.

During the handover ceremony, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, the State Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, emphasized that the project will provide a conducive environment for local artisans to thrive. She noted that it will also serve as a hub for cultural tourism, skill development, and entrepreneurship.

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.