The federal government is set to enhance the skills of over 100,000 artisans to meet international standards, according to Afiz Ogun, the director general of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).
During an inspection tour of various training centers for the Skill Up Artisans Programme (SUPA) in Jos, Plateau, Mr. Ogun emphasized the government’s dedication to improving the economic prospects of Nigerians.
By December 2025, he stated, these artisans will be equipped to compete globally, with the aim of obtaining international certifications. “The SUPA is an extensive initiative that began last year, successfully training about 29,000 artisans. This year, our goal is to upscale an additional 100,000 to meet international benchmarks,” he explained.
Mr. Ogun highlighted the importance of international certification, noting that a plumber in Nigeria could possess a qualification recognized worldwide, thereby enhancing their professional credibility.
He called on the private sector to collaborate with the government in establishing skill training centers, asserting that merely creating private schools will not resolve the nation’s economic challenges. “We encourage companies and individuals to invest in international training centers instead of just private schools; this will better prepare our youth for the global marketplace,” he added.
Mr. Ogun underscored the growing awareness among Nigerians, who are increasingly seeking to acquire skills alongside traditional education for their children.
Beneficiaries of the training, including Fauziya Bayero, a fashion trainee, and Onovo Okon, a CNG trainee, expressed their gratitude for the program and their aspirations to reach international standards in their respective fields.
The inspection tour included visits to various training facilities, such as metal fabrication and CNG conversion centers, fashion workshops, mechanic workshops, and an ITF training center for staff.
(NAN)
