Blacksmiths in Gombe State say their centuries-old trade is under threat from rising input costs, erratic electricity supply, and import competition, placing their livelihoods at risk.
Malam Ibrahim Makeri, a veteran craftsman operating in Gombe Central Market, continues to hammer metal into hoes, knives, and other tools using a traditional forge he inherited through generations.
He says his work has supported his family for decades. Yet, many of his fellow blacksmiths warn that the industry is in decline.
Usman Hassan Adamu, the Sarkin Makera (leader of blacksmiths), says the cost of scrap metal and charcoal has surged, while imported factory-made tools flood local markets.Â
He argues that despite the durability of locally made items, local artisans lack the capital and modern tools to compete.
“Our products are more durable than imported ones. We even reconstruct modern materials into stronger versions. Industries copy our designs, but we lack capital and equipment to compete,” he said.
According to Adamu, over 5,000 blacksmiths, including more than 2,000 youths, operate at Makera in Gombe metropolis.Â
He noted that university graduates and others unable to find white-collar jobs often turn to blacksmithing as a means of survival.
But Adamu also raised concerns about the heavy use of charcoal, which accelerates deforestation, urging authorities to provide cleaner alternatives.
Musa Abdulhamid, a 52-year-old dealer who began smithing at 14, lamented that the craft has stagnated in Nigeria while advancing elsewhere. “We have talent, but we lack buyers and equipment,” he said.
Chindo Baba, Chairman of the Makera Progressive Association, listed the wide range of items they produce.
“We construct wheelbarrows, trailer body parts, and bending engines. Our biggest challenges are capital, stable power, and access to generators.”
Younger Smiths, such as 28-year-old Mohammed Musa, say their earnings average between N30,000 and N40,000 monthly.
Others claim to have used their trade to build homes and support children’s education.
The ripple effects of the blacksmithing trade support additional livelihoods: scrap dealers, charcoal sellers, welders, and retailers rely on demand generated by local forges.
Still, many say they are constrained by ageing tools, a lack of formal financing, and unstable electricity.
The Bank of Industry estimates that Nigeria has over 12 million artisans who form the backbone of grassroots enterprise and cultural preservation. Yet, most work informally, without access to finance or training.
Reports show that over 70% of rural artisans lack technical or financial support, forcing many to rely on ageing tools.
Gombe State’s Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Tourism, Nasiru Mohammed, says the government is taking steps to support the sector.
Among proposed measures are relocation of forges to a safer, modern site, a digital platform to help artisans market their products for N1,000 annually, and access to grants and interest-free loans through the GoCARES programme.Â
He also cited improved feeder roads and interventions following workshop fires.
However, blacksmiths say policy support has not fully filtered down to their workshops.
Many still rely on manual labour when electricity fails, and financial institutions often require high collateral before approving loans.
The artisans believe that with access to modern machinery and reliable capital, they could transform their operations and preserve an important cultural and economic tradition.
