The Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Oluwatoyin Ogun, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to scale up the skills and recognition of Nigerian artisans to international standards through strategic partnerships.
Ogun made this known at the Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Exhibition and Fair held on Tuesday in Abuja. The event, themed “Empowering Nigerian Artisans and Technicians for Economic Development,” brought together artisans from across the country.
He explained that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is determined to work with artisans across Nigeria to formalise and upgrade their trades to global standards.
“Now that you are remembered by this administration, this administration is set to make your informal setting, the unorganised artisanry, the unorganised trade, formal and organised. This government is ready to work with artisans,” Ogun said.
The ITF boss noted that Nigerian artisans have faced limited access to training over the years but assured that President Tinubu has “taken the bull by the horns” by directing the Fund to scale up their skills to meet international benchmarks.
“In addition to the president, his government also consists of the Bank of Industry, and ITF is also ready, getting ready with the business incubation, where businesses will be incubated by artisans. It is one of the outcomes of our super programme,” he added.
According to him, the collaboration will provide not only training but also create incubation centres that will enable artisans to build sustainable businesses capable of competing globally.
Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Nigerian Office for Trade Negotiations (NOTN) and former Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Sanusi Rikiji, revealed that Nigeria will host 75 countries during the intra-African trade fair scheduled for 2026.
In his welcome address, Rikiji commended artisans and technicians for their role in nation-building. “This second Artisans and Technician Exhibition here tonight has made Abuja a one-stop shop to our esteemed leaders and distinguished guests. Trade is a lifeline of every nation and is similar to the artery in the human body,” he said.
Rikiji stressed that artisans and technicians account for about 80 per cent of Nigeria’s workforce and described them as critical to sustaining the nearly 230 million consumer-based economy.
“I take great pride in identifying with these patriots as they backstop the Nigerian economy. I specifically commend the leadership for its unity of purpose and for maintaining a broad voice and a common direction at all times,” Rikiji added.
He further urged artisans and technicians to mentor the younger generation to ensure continuity and sustainability of skills in the sector. According to him, exhibitions remain important platforms to showcase Nigeria’s cultural heritage and to promote national development.
“Nigeria is a land of great resources, human capital, and many other strengths. I therefore urge us to remain united so that collectively we can achieve the agenda of the government,” he said.