ITF Director-General Engages Artisans to Enhance SUPA

Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, the Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), gathered artisans from Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja to discuss the Nigeria Artisans for the Renewed Hope Initiative (NARHI) and the Skills Upgrade Programme for Artisans (SUPA). The meeting, held at the Skills House, focused on ensuring that government support under the SUPA Programme is directed only to genuine tradespeople.

Dr. Ogun indicated that the ITF had revised its screening process due to findings that some applicants falsely identified as artisans without real knowledge of their trades. To maintain the integrity of SUPA, ITF area offices were instructed to collaborate with recognized artisans' associations.

Dr. Ogun also described the Skills House as "the home of skills," encouraging artisans to utilize the facility for skill enhancement. He noted that the 2025 edition of SUPA would improve upon the previous year, with expectations for further advancements in 2026.

Hon. Adamson Oluwatosin Ayinde, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, also addressed the artisans, urging them to disseminate information about the administration's achievements and announcing upcoming invitations for the 2026 National Industrial Manpower Summit.