The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has disclosed that about 100,000 trainees participating in the second phase of its Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme nationwide will sit for examinations on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
In a statement signed by the Head, Press and Public Relations Unit, Thomas Ngor, the Fund said the examinations will be conducted by the Chartered Institute of Project Management of Nigeria (CIPMN) to test trainees’ proficiency in soft skills, including project management, occupational health and safety, and professional ethics.
The Director-General of the ITF, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, explained that the examinations represent a critical step in certifying and licensing Nigerian artisans with internationally recognized credentials.
According to him, “Our goal is to build an indigenous workforce capable of competing with their global peers. These examinations are part of a framework that not only trains artisans but also validates their competence in areas that are crucial for professional excellence.
“With internationally accredited certifications, we will be able to reduce unemployment and address related socio-economic challenges by equipping artisans with marketable skills.”
Dr. Ogun further said the SUPA programme’s certification framework integrates globally recognized qualifications to boost the employability of participants.
He added, “Beyond Nigeria, these certifications will enable our artisans to pursue job opportunities abroad. With a youthful population of over 70 million, Nigeria can leverage skilled labour as an export commodity, thereby attracting foreign exchange to the country. What we are doing with SUPA is to ensure that our people can compete anywhere in the world with the right skills and globally recognized certifications.”
Highlighting ongoing collaborations, the DG disclosed that the ITF had secured approval from City & Guilds London (UK) as one of its select examination centres in Nigeria and was in advanced discussions with ALBERK QA TECHNIC of Turkey and other international certification bodies to expand the range of credentials available.
He commended CIPMN for its role in the programme, saying, “CIPMN has been a steadfast partner since the inception of SUPA. We are confident that the examinations they will oversee tomorrow will meet the high standards that Nigerians and the international community expect.“
