The Industrial Training Fund has refuted claims suggesting an alleged plan to move its headquarters from Jos, Plateau State, to Abuja.
In a statement released on Friday, the Head of Press and Public Relations, Thomas Ngor, clarified that there is no proposal to relocate the headquarters. According to him, “There is no proposed relocation of the ITF headquarters from Jos, despite the Honourable Member’s claims.”
The clarification followed a resolution passed by the Plateau State House of Assembly during its plenary on Thursday, rejecting the alleged relocation plan. The House, led by Speaker Naanlong Daniel, unanimously agreed that such a move would negatively affect the state’s economy and cultural heritage.
The resolution came after a motion of urgent public importance raised by Theodore Bala Maiyaki, representing Quaan-Pan South Constituency. The lawmaker argued that relocating the ITF headquarters could undermine Plateau State’s position as a key centre for industrial training and economic growth.
In its statement, the ITF stressed its longstanding connection to Jos, noting that the headquarters was moved from Lagos to the city in 1976.
“The ITF deeply values its longstanding historical ties and socio-economic contributions to Plateau State, which have been integral to its identity since 1976,” the statement read.
The Fund further assured that neither its management, governing council, nor the supervising ministry had discussed or considered the relocation. It also pledged openness to discussions with the Plateau State government and other stakeholders to resolve any concerns.
“The Fund welcomes dialogue with the state government and relevant stakeholders to address concerns and strengthen collaborative efforts for mutual benefit,” it said.
Calling for calm, the ITF urged Nigerians to ignore any speculation about moving its headquarters. “In light of the above, the ITF reaffirms its commitment to its heritage and responsibilities in Jos and urges the public to disregard rumours of relocation as unfounded and misleading,” the statement concluded.
This public clarification comes as interest grows around federal agency locations, with attention on how such moves could influence regional economies and job opportunities.