President Bola Tinubu has greenlit a N3.6 billion investment for the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) program. This initiative focuses on enhancing the expertise of tailors and bolstering Nigeria’s informal economy, with a goal to reach 200,000 artisans by 2026.
Dr. Afiz Ogun, the Director-General of the ITF, announced the project during applicant screenings in Abuja this Wednesday. He emphasized that the rigorous vetting process ensures only authentic professionals receive support. The initiative addresses concerns about foreign workers dominating the local market and aims to cultivate a skilled domestic workforce capable of global competition.
The government is shifting its strategy by moving away from handing out equipment that participants often sell. Instead, the program offers industrial machinery, mentorship, and business incubation. It also establishes a verification system that allows clients to confirm the credentials of service providers like plumbers and electricians.
Successful applicants will benefit from long-term support provided by International Labour Organisation-trained workers. Furthermore, a new digital marketplace will allow artisans to promote their services and connect with potential customers. This shift aims to create sustainable jobs, improve service quality, and increase income levels for Nigerian workers.
