ITF to Screen Artisans for 2026 Skill Program

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) is set to commence a nationwide screening of artisans for its 2026 Skill Artisan Support Programme. The screening will occur in two phases: from July 14 to July 17, 2026, for the northern zones, and from July 21 to July 24, 2026, for the southern zones.

This initiative aims to verify eligibility, assess practical experience, and shortlist candidates for the training program. Dr.

Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, the Director General of ITF, emphasized the need to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Nigerian artisans to align with international best practices. The program is designed to bridge the skills gap and equip artisans with modern techniques, enabling them to compete successfully in both domestic and international labor markets.

The ITF recently concluded an international certification examination for beneficiaries of the 2025 program, marking a significant milestone in the government's efforts to produce globally certified artisans. The initiative remains a key component of the federal government's human capital development agenda.