The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has commenced nationwide certification examinations as part of the second phase of its Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme, which aims to upgrade Nigeria’s workforce.
ITF Director-General, Dr Afiz Ogun, while inspecting centres in Abuja, revealed that about 100,000 trainees are currently enrolled across the country. However, only 30,000 candidates are being examined in batches due to the limited number of internationally approved training facilities.
He explained that the SUPA programme is structured in three tiers: a foundation stage for basic skills, SUPA I for soft skills and professional licensing — which the ongoing Chartered Institute of Project Management of Nigeria (CIPMN) examinations cover — and SUPA II, which provides advanced technical training.
According to Ogun, the initiative is designed to train, certify, and license Nigerian artisans with globally recognised credentials, ensuring they can compete in both local and international job markets.
