- The Federal Government plans to empower 10 million Nigerians through the Skill Up Artisans Programme (SUPA) over the next two years
- ITF Director General Dr. Afiz Ogun emphasized SUPA’s role in bridging the skills gap and promoting artisanal skill development
The Federal Government has announced plans to empower 10 million Nigerians over the next two years through the Skill Up Artisans Programme (SUPA).
Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, Director General/Chief Executive of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), revealed this at a graduation ceremony for 100 youths who completed the 2024 ITF-NERGP skills acquisition program in Katsina State—represented by Engr. Dauda Lawal, Area Manager of ITF Katsina Office, Ogun, emphasized SUPA’s role in bridging the skills gap, often neglected due to a preference for white-collar jobs.
“SUPA aims to change this trend by improving the skills of unlicensed and uncertified workers, promoting artisanal skill development, and fostering a society that values shared prosperity,” Ogun explained.
He highlighted the ITF’s dedication to human capital development as a sustainable solution to unemployment, poverty, and youth unrest. Ogun noted that despite numerous job vacancies, youth unemployment persists, leading to crime and social issues. Skills acquisition, he asserted, is the key to addressing these problems.
Ogun also stated that the ITF plans to enhance its impact locally and internationally, aligning with the Tinubu Administration’s national growth goals. The ITF’s strategic vision includes comprehensive training programs that enhance, diversify, and innovate artisanal skills.
He urged the graduates who received start-up packs to use them to build a decent living and contribute to the Nigerian economy. “These packs are your ticket to contributing to the economy. Do not consider selling them,” he advised.
Special Guest of Honour, Prof. Aliyu Mamman, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Daura, highlighted the benefits of skills acquisition, such as job creation, high productivity, and foreign exchange earnings. However, he also pointed out challenges, including societal attitudes towards skilled jobs, lack of government recognition, and the threat posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Prof. Mamman encouraged the graduates to adopt a mindset of starting small to grow big with the skills and resources they have received.
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