FG unveils N3.6bn scheme for Nigerian artisans, pledges industry’s upgrade

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund, Dr Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, has said that artisans will play a key role in driving President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially as the current administration has accorded the sector unprecedented recognition.

Ogun made the remark on Saturday in Akure, Ondo State, during the inauguration of the Nigeria Artisans for the Renewed Hope Initiative.

While addressing attendees, he stated that artisans had long contributed significantly to Nigeria’s economy but had not received adequate attention until the arrival of President Tinubu.

According to him, policies introduced by the Federal Government have empowered skilled workers, boosted entrepreneurship, and positioned them to compete effectively in the global economy.

The ITF chief also announced a N3.6 billion business incubation programme targeted at tailors nationwide, explaining that beneficiaries would receive industrial sewing machines, specialised equipment, business support, and training after passing competency tests.

He added that the programme was designed to help artisans build sustainable enterprises rather than merely provide starter packs, stressing that mentorship and business development would form part of the intervention.

Ogun further disclosed that the ITF was collaborating with the International Labour Organisation to provide internationally recognised certification for artisans while expanding digital fabrication and technology-based training centres across the country.

Speaking at the event, the President of the Ondo State Artisan Group, Adefiranye Gbenga, pledged the support of artisans for the initiative, expressing optimism that the administration’s investments in vocational training and enterprise development would enhance economic opportunities for Nigerians.