ITF to Train 100,000 More Artisans to Boost Job Opportunities in Nigeria 

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has launched the second phase of its Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA) to train an additional 100,000 artisans across Nigeria. This initiative aims to bridge the skilled manpower gap in Nigerian industries by equipping artisans with the necessary skills, certifications, and opportunities for employment both locally and internationally. 

This comes after the successful completion of the first phase in early 2024, where 29,000 artisans graduated and gained relevant skills to improve their employability. 

A Structured Training Approach 

The SUPA programme is divided into three phases: 

✅ Foundation Phase – An introductory stage for new artisans. 

✅ SUPA I – Focuses on soft skills, including Artisan Project Management, Health & Safety, and Ethics & Patriotism. 

✅ SUPA II – Provides advanced technical training in chosen trade areas and certification exams. 

According to ITF’s Director-General, Dr. Oluwatoyin Ogun, the initiative is designed to equip artisans with skills that will not only meet local demands but also position them for global job opportunities. 

Training, Certification, and Job Placement 

To ensure credibility, ITF has streamlined the registration process through its official platform www.supa.itf.gov.ng. The screening exercise has been conducted across 90 senatorial districts, ensuring that only qualified artisans are enrolled. 

I’m doing all in my power to entrench SUPA as an alternative route to prosperity beyond formal education.” — Dr. Oluwatoyin Ogun, Director-General, Industrial Training Fund (ITF). 

Key benefits of the programme include: 

Free training at accredited centres across Nigeria. 

Monthly stipends for artisans during training. 

Certification exams at no cost, enhancing employability. 

Connection to job opportunities through the Nigerian Employers Consultative Association (NECA). 

Additionally, ITF is working on increasing the number of training centres from 800 to 1,500 and collaborating with equipment manufacturers to provide quality tools for artisans. 

The SUPA programme is a major step towards reducing unemployment and increasing wealth creation in Nigeria. By equipping artisans with valuable skills and certifications, ITF is opening alternative pathways to success beyond formal education. 

Nigerians interested in joining should visit www.supa.itf.gov.ng or www.itf.gov.ng to check their admission status and prepare for the upcoming training phase.