The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has commenced international certification examinations for beneficiaries of the Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) programme in the Federal Capital Territory, marking a major leap in the Federal Government’s drive to build a globally competitive skilled workforce and reposition Nigerian artisans for international opportunities.
The certification examinations, supervised by Turkish-based certification body Alberk QA Technic, will hold from May 18 to May 19, 2026.
A total of 296 artisans trained under the SUPA initiative in the FCT are participating in the exercise across more than 20 high-demand vocational and technical trades, including Fashion Design, Welding and Fabrication, Cyber Security, Automechanics, Tiling, Bricklaying, Painting and Decoration, Electrical and Electronics, Carpentry, and other critical sectors driving industrial growth and economic development.
Speaking ahead of the examinations, the Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, described the exercise as a defining moment in the effort to raise the standard of Nigerian artisanship to global levels.
According to him, the internationally recognised certification will validate the competence of the trainees and significantly improve their employability, productivity, mobility, and earning potential both within and outside Nigeria.
“This exercise represents a major step in our commitment to producing world-class artisans with globally recognised qualifications. Under the strict standards of Alberk QA Technic, these artisans are being equipped and certified to compete favourably anywhere in the world,” he stated.
Dr. Ogun noted that the involvement of Alberk QA Technic further strengthens the credibility, transparency, and international acceptance of the certification process.
He recalled that the City & Guilds of London Institute had earlier approved ITF as an examination centre and conducted mock certification examinations for SUPA trainees as part of preparations towards meeting global certification benchmarks.
The ITF Director-General stressed that the Fund remains committed to changing the negative perception surrounding vocational skills and artisanship, insisting that technical and vocational education now plays a central role in industrialisation, innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development.
“The era of looking down on artisanship is over. Across the world, technical skills are powering industries, creating wealth, and driving economic transformation. Through the SUPA programme, we are intentionally building a new generation of highly skilled Nigerian artisans capable of contributing meaningfully to national growth and global competitiveness,” he added.
Dr. Ogun further disclosed that following the FCT exercise, Alberk QA Technic will proceed to other states across the federation to certify additional batches of SUPA artisans.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Industrial Training Fund to deepening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and equipping Nigerian youths and artisans with industry-relevant skills needed to boost productivity, entrepreneurship, and sustainable national prosperity.
