ITF DG Threatens Sanctions Against Group Sabotaging Skill- Up Artisan Programme

ITF DG Threatens Sanctions Against Group Sabotaging Skill-Up Artisan Programme

 

 

 

The Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has issued a stern warning to a self-styled “SUPA Beneficiary Association” against attempts to sabotage the Federal Government’s Skill-Up Artisan Programme (SUPA), describing such actions as detrimental to Nigeria’s efforts to equip its youth with employable skills.

 

The DG spoke during the ongoing examinations for artisans across 30 trade areas under the programme, reaffirming ITF’s commitment to producing a skilled workforce ready for both local and international labour markets.

 

He outlined the three exit routes of the programme: direct employment in Nigerian industries, organized talent export to countries in need of skilled manpower, and business incubation for entrepreneurial trainees. On talent export, he stated: “Countries like India and China have built strong economies through skilled manpower abroad. Nigeria can achieve similar success if managed properly.”

 

The DG also stressed that the programme is not about handouts. Participants undergo a compulsory two-week entrepreneurial training aimed at promoting innovation, discipline, and sustainable business practices. “This is about creating long-term value, not quick gains,” he said.

 

Thousands of artisans are currently being assessed in trades including construction, automotive, IT, welding, plumbing, and electrical installation to ensure they meet professional standards.

 

He expressed concern over the “SUPA Beneficiary Association,” which he accused of blackmailing, demanding vehicles for monitoring, and spreading propaganda against the programme. “This association is neither recognised by ITF nor the Federal Government. Their actions are politically motivated and harmful to the beneficiaries’ future,” he warned.

 

The DG urged participants to remain focused, emphasizing that the programme is central to tackling unemployment, reducing poverty, and bridging Nigeria’s skills gap. “Our industries continue to face skilled manpower shortages while millions of youths remain unemployed. SUPA is the bridge between these realities,” he said.

 

Chief Henry Mbadiwe, Registrar-General of the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN), also praised the programme, highlighting the importance of project management skills for artisans to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and deliver value in various sectors.

 

Beneficiaries commended the ITF for conducting examinations in local languages and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in SUPA, describing it as a pathway to self-reliance.

 

The ITF assured Nigerians that the programme would continue to focus on its mission of building a skilled workforce, creating employment, and contributing to national economic growth.