Abuja: The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has initiated a business incubation programme aimed at empowering artisans under its Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) initiative, focusing on enhancing entrepreneurial skills and business management across Nigeria. This announcement was made by ITF’s Director-General, Dr Afiz Ogun, through a statement released by the fund’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mr Thomas Ngor.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr Ogun highlighted that the programme is strategically designed to aid SUPA graduates in establishing and growing sustainable businesses throughout the country. This initiative marks a significant effort by the Federal Government to promote skills development, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. The programme aims to bridge the gap between skills acquisition and enterprise development by equipping selected artisans with necessary tools, training, mentorship, business support services, and market access to foster successful businesses.
Participants of the programme will undergo extensive entrepreneurship and business management training, including the globally recognised Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme. Dr Ogun further stated that the programme will also support participants in obtaining certifications and licenses to enhance their professional standings and competitiveness in the market.
The initiative seeks to foster ownership, accountability, and sustainability, enabling beneficiaries to establish viable enterprises that can generate employment opportunities. Dr Ogun emphasized that the programme is a strategic intervention to transform skilled artisans into successful business owners and employers, ultimately aimed at driving the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and contributing to Nigeria’s industrial development.
The expected outcomes of the programme include the creation of sustainable artisan-owned businesses, increased employment opportunities, and accelerated MSME growth. It also aims to enhance youth economic inclusion, improve business survival rates among SUPA beneficiaries, and bolster contributions to Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda.