President Bola Tinubu has approved fresh funding to support Nigerian artisans. The new intervention is expected to empower thousands of tailors through the Industrial Training Fund’s skills development programme.
ABUJA, FCT — President Bola Tinubu has approved N3.6 billion for the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to expand its Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme for tailors across Nigeria. According to an official statement, the funding is aimed at improving vocational skills, boosting productivity and supporting the growth of the country’s informal sector. The initiative forms part of the Federal Government’s efforts to promote job creation through practical skills development.

Why This Happened
The ITF said the funding will help strengthen training opportunities for tailors under the Skill Up Artisans Programme. According to the agency, the programme focuses on improving technical skills, enhancing product quality and increasing the earning potential of artisans.
Officials said supporting skilled workers remains a key part of the government’s strategy to improve employment opportunities and encourage small business growth.
What They Said
According to the official announcement, the approval demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to investing in human capital development and expanding access to vocational training.
The ITF said the programme is designed to equip artisans with practical skills needed to compete in today’s economy while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
Who Is the Industrial Training Fund?
The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) is a Federal Government agency established to promote skills acquisition and workforce development in Nigeria. It partners with industries, businesses and training institutions to improve the quality of technical and vocational education.
Through programmes such as the Skill Up Artisans initiative, the ITF aims to increase productivity, improve employability and strengthen the country’s skilled workforce.
What This Means for Nigeria
The development means more tailors are expected to benefit from structured vocational training and capacity-building programmes. It could also support the growth of small businesses, improve service quality and create more employment opportunities within Nigeria’s informal economy.
The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen local enterprise development and expand opportunities for skilled artisans across the country.
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