The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) targets no fewer than 200,000 artisans nationwide as beneficiaries in the first phase of the 2026 Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) programme.

The director-general of the ITF, Afiz Ogun, made this known at a screening of the artisans shortlisted under the 2026 SUPA Further Training Programme on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mr Ogun said the screening followed online registration by applicants to ensure that only genuine artisans were enrolled to acquire skills and improve their businesses.

He noted that some applicants falsely claimed to be artisans to collect government stipends without participating in training.

The director-general said that the screening marked the first phase of the 2026 SUPA programme.

“The ITF has already trained countless  artisans under previous editions of the programme and will continue to ensure that many Nigerians benefit from the programme,” he said

Mr Ogun said that the SUPA programme is a presidential initiative.

He said that the federal government had earmarked N3.6 billion to support tailors under the ITF SUPA programme, noting that it was part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s informal sector and create sustainable employment.

The director-general said the programme would screen the artisans and capture their data, and they would receive local and international certification.

He said that licensed artisans would be traceable and accountable for the services they provide.

According to him, customers will rate artisans, enabling others to assess their performance before hiring them.

“The screening is ongoing in every senatorial district, including some districts operating multiple centres,” he said.

Mr Ogun said that the government had replaced the old system of distributing starter packs after training.

He said that beneficiaries previously sold equipment immediately after receiving it, defeating the programme’s objectives.

The director-general said the programme now offered three exit pathways — overseas employment, direct industry placement and business incubation.

According to him, artisans seeking jobs abroad will receive internationally recognised skills and certification, and beneficiaries will also be listed on a digital marketplace where clients can review their work and ratings.

Mr Ogun said beneficiaries would receive industrial sewing machines, tools and continuous technical and entrepreneurship support.

He urged beneficiaries to remain honest, warning against fraudulent enrolment and the use of ghost artisans.

(NAN)