The Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr Afiz Ogun, has urged artisans in Ondo State to apply for the Federal Government’s Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme, describing it as a strategic pathway to upgrade skills, secure certification, and improve productivity for better economic opportunities.
Ogun made this call while addressing members of the Ondo State Artisans Group (OSAG) at their secretariat in Akure, where he emphasised that the programme is designed to reposition artisans for both local relevance and global competitiveness. His visit drew a large turnout, with artisans gathering in significant numbers to receive him and engage with the initiative.
According to him, the SUPA programme is a deliberate intervention aimed at transforming Nigeria’s artisan sector through structured training, certification, and licensing across multiple trades. He stressed that artisans who take advantage of the programme stand to gain not just improved technical capacity, but also increased credibility in both domestic and international markets.
“The Skill-Up Artisans Programme focuses on training, certifying, and licensing artisans across various trades to meet global standards,” Ogun said. “It is designed to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern innovations in the global market.”
He explained that the programme goes beyond conventional skill acquisition by integrating digital tools, improved techniques, and standardised practices into artisan training. This, he noted, would ensure that Nigerian artisans are not left behind in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
“This is achieved by introducing digital tools, improved techniques, and standardised practices. Participants will gain hands-on experience and exposure to industry best practices,” he added. “In addition, they will access opportunities that can improve their productivity and income potential.”
Ogun’s message to artisans in Ondo State was clear and direct: participation in the SUPA programme is not optional for those seeking growth, but necessary. He encouraged members of OSAG and other artisan groups across the state to take immediate steps to register and fully engage with the programme.
He pointed out that one of the major challenges facing artisans in Nigeria is the lack of formal recognition and certification, which often limits their access to bigger opportunities. Through SUPA, he said, this gap is being addressed in a structured and sustainable way.
“Upon successful completion, participants may receive certification that enhances their credibility and employability,” he stated, noting that certification would serve as a critical tool for artisans seeking to expand their reach beyond local markets.
Beyond training and certification, Ogun highlighted the economic benefits tied to the programme, revealing that participants may also access financial support designed to strengthen their businesses. He noted that artisans in specific sectors, particularly fashion, stand to benefit from business incubation support upon meeting programme requirements.
He urged those in the fashion sector, which he described as having the highest number of practitioners, to take the lead in registering for the programme. According to him, those who successfully complete the process and meet the required standards could receive significant financial backing to scale their operations.
Ogun also used the opportunity to address what he described as a low level of participation in Federal Government programmes among artisans in certain regions. He expressed concern that many artisans are missing out on life-changing opportunities due to a lack of awareness or reluctance to engage.
“It is a pity that our people’s attitude towards government programmes is inadequate and alarming,” he said. “Thousands of others are benefiting because they embrace these opportunities without hesitation.”
He called for a change in mindset, urging artisans in Ondo State to be more proactive and open to government-led initiatives that are designed to support their growth. According to him, increased participation would not only benefit individuals but also strengthen the overall artisan sector in the state.
In addition to encouraging participation, Ogun reaffirmed ITF’s commitment to supporting artisans through continuous engagement and structured programmes. He noted that the agency remains focused on building capacity within the artisan community as a means of driving national development.
“Our mandate is to work with artisans across the country and create opportunities that improve their livelihoods,” he said. “On this platform, artisans have been enjoying diverse windows of opportunities.”
The leadership of the Ondo State Artisans Group welcomed the initiative and expressed readiness to mobilise members for active participation. The President General of OSAG, Apostle Adefioye Gbenga-Gure, described the SUPA programme as timely and impactful, noting that it aligns with the needs of artisans seeking growth and stability.
He commended the ITF for introducing a programme that directly targets the development of artisans, adding that it would significantly enhance the value and competitiveness of local skills.
“This is a life-changing programme designed to add value to artisans in Nigeria,” he said, assuring that members of the group would take full advantage of the opportunity.
Gure also acknowledged the importance of collaboration between government agencies and artisan groups, noting that such partnerships are essential for effective implementation and maximum impact. He pledged the support of OSAG in ensuring that information about the programme reaches all corners of the state.
Other stakeholders present at the engagement echoed similar sentiments, encouraging artisans to embrace the initiative and position themselves for growth. They emphasised that the evolving nature of global markets requires continuous learning and adaptation, making programmes like SUPA critical for long-term success.
Ogun, however, maintained that the success of the programme in Ondo State would largely depend on the willingness of artisans to participate. He urged them not to wait until opportunities pass them by, but to take decisive steps towards improving their skills and expanding their horizons.
“Participants will gain not just skills, but exposure and opportunities that can transform their businesses,” he reiterated.
With registration ongoing and awareness efforts intensifying, the focus remains on ensuring that as many artisans as possible in Ondo State take advantage of the SUPA programme and the opportunities it presents.
