2026 SUPA: ITF Screens Artisans, Targets Jobs and Global Certification

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has commenced the nationwide screening of artisans for the 2026 Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme, with a commitment of ₦3.6 billion for its Business Incubation Programme aimed at providing equipment to successful beneficiaries.

Speaking during the screening exercise in Abuja, the Director-General of ITF, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin-Ogun, said another 200,000 artisans would benefit from this year’s training programme. He explained that the nationwide screening is designed to identify genuine artisans, facilitate international certification, and equip participants in line with global best practices.
Dr. Oluwatoyin-Ogun stated that the screening process is intended to eliminate fake beneficiaries and ensure that only qualified artisans benefit from the third edition of the SUPA Programme. According to him, the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to strengthen the nation’s skilled workforce and prevent abuse of government intervention programmes.
He noted that the SUPA Programme is focused on job creation, wealth generation, and poverty reduction under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He added that the President is determined to address the growing trend of foreign artisans taking jobs meant for Nigerians, stressing the need to equip local artisans with globally recognised skills and certifications.
The ITF Director-General explained that the programme has three exit pathways: talent export for artisans seeking opportunities abroad with internationally recognised certificates, direct job placement in industries, and enrolment on a marketplace platform where clients can easily access their services.
Dr. Oluwatoyin-Ogun also urged beneficiaries to demonstrate patriotism, honesty, and integrity, warning against false claims by training centres seeking to exploit the programme. He noted that cases of “ghost artisans,” particularly in the tailoring sector, have been recorded in the past and called on participants to uphold transparency throughout the exercise.
Some participants at the screening exercise commended the Industrial Training Fund for providing them with the opportunity to gain international recognition in their respective trades. They expressed optimism that the SUPA Programme would enhance their skills and enable them to become employers of labour.