Vice President Kashim Shettima is set to unveil a new Business Incubation Programme by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) aimed at helping Nigerian artisans establish and grow sustainable businesses.

The ITF, in a statement issued on Tuesday in Jos by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Thomas Ngor, said the initiative is designed to support graduates of the SUPA Programme with the skills, resources and mentorship needed to become successful entrepreneurs.

According to the Fund, the programme reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to skills development, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth.

It explained that beneficiaries will receive entrepreneurship and business management training, including the internationally recognised Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme, as well as support for certification and licensing.

The ITF said selected participants will also be provided with tools, equipment and start-up support packages under structured participation and repayment arrangements aimed at promoting ownership, accountability and sustainability.

Director-General of the ITF, Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, described the initiative as a strategic intervention designed to transform skilled artisans into business owners and employers of labour.

He said the programme would provide a structured pathway for artisans to convert acquired skills into sustainable livelihoods while contributing to national economic development.

According to him, the initiative is expected to drive the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), create jobs and expand economic opportunities for young Nigerians.

The Fund said the programme will include a robust monitoring and evaluation framework, with beneficiary businesses to be assessed regularly over a five-year period to measure growth, sustainability, job creation and overall economic impact.

The launch is expected to be attended by senior government officials, development partners, financial institutions, artisan associations and other stakeholders in Nigeria’s enterprise development sector.