The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) states that it is preparing to send trained Nigerian youths under the age of 35 abroad as part of a talent export programme.
Director General Afiz Ogun announced the plan during a visit to trainees sitting examinations at the Larne Shittu Motors Training Centre in Abuja. He said successful candidates would receive government-backed certificates to guarantee authenticity.
Mr Ogun said the ITF is working with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to connect trainees with international employers. “Through trade fairs and global contacts, we identify countries that need specific skills and ensure our trained youths can fill those gaps,” he said.
The ITF is also running “train-the-trainer” schemes in leatherwork, textiles and finishing, aimed at raising Nigerian artisans to international standards. More than 30,000 trainees are currently sitting examinations in project management, industrial safety and patriotism, with over 100,000 having expressed interest.
Mr Ogun urged investors to establish more skills acquisition centres, saying the government would support training costs.
Henry Mbadiwe, head of the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria, said the certification would help trainees “refocus and find their path in business.”
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