The Industrial Training Fund (ITF), through the Federal Government’s Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), has initiated a comprehensive screening process for 15,000 artisans in Plateau State. This initiative aims to empower Nigerians by providing them with essential vocational and technical skills that foster self-reliance.
The screening took place at the ITF Vocational Training Centre in Jos, drawing a large crowd of hopeful applicants eager to join this nationwide skills development and empowerment project.
Addressing the participants, the ITF Director-General, Dr. Afiz Ogun, emphasized the importance of the screening in verifying authentic candidates and ensuring their appropriate placement in designated training facilities.
Represented by Mrs. Nancy Ekong, the Director of Technical and Vocational Skills Training, Ogun called on state governments to establish a minimum of three fully equipped training centres within their jurisdictions to bolster the programme’s success.
“Our goal is to thoroughly vet the artisans because we need to confirm their identities and prevent proxy applications,” Ogun explained, highlighting the necessity of in-person verification.
The SUPA initiative offers skill acquisition in 24 different trades, ranging from information and communications technology (ICT) and tailoring to plumbing, electrical installation, and hospitality services.
“We are committed to removing as many people as possible from unemployment and equipping them with the means to achieve financial independence,” the DG stated. “In Plateau State alone, we are screening 15,000 artisans during this period, with officers deployed across all local government areas. Similar screening activities are underway nationwide.”
Ogun also pointed out a significant obstacle faced by the agency: the scarcity of modern, standard training centres. He appealed to both government bodies and private sector stakeholders to invest in state-of-the-art facilities.
“A major challenge is the limited availability of quality centres,” he remarked. “We refuse to train apprentices in informal market shops or temporary setups. Our trainees will learn in advanced centres equipped with the necessary tools, as they will be preparing for internationally recognized certification exams.”
He further explained that obtaining such certifications would significantly boost the artisans’ employability and competitiveness both within Nigeria and on the global stage.
“We require centres furnished with proper equipment and conducive learning environments. Consider the volume of applicants here in Plateau-over 15,000 artisans-and similar numbers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Without sufficient centres, the programme’s implementation will face serious hurdles,” he added.
“We urge governments to invest in building quality training facilities outfitted with essential tools. If each state can establish at least three centres focusing on key trades, it will greatly facilitate the programme’s rollout,” Ogun concluded.
Our sources confirm that the screening in Plateau State is scheduled to span two days.
According to reports, the Skill-Up Artisans Programme forms part of the Federal Government’s wider strategy to equip Nigerians with practical skills, reduce unemployment rates, and foster inclusive economic development.
