The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) is set to launch the Business Incubation Programme for Artisans under the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme.   The programme is a transformative initiative designed to support graduates of the SUPA Programme in establishing and growing sustainable businesses across Nigeria.

The initiative represents a major step in the Federal Government’s commitment to skills development, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship promotion and inclusive economic growth.

It is specifically designed to bridge the gap between skills acquisition and enterprise development by providing selected artisans with the tools, training, mentorship, business support services and market access required to build successful and sustainable businesses.

A statement on Friday by the Director, Press and Public Relations Unit of ITF, Mr. Thomas Ngor, said under this initiative, beneficiaries will undergo comprehensive entrepreneurship and business management training, including the internationally recognised Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) Programme.

Participants will also receive support in certification and licensing processes to enhance their professional standing and competitiveness.

Ngor explained that as part of the incubation framework, selected beneficiaries will be provided with tools, equipment and start-up support packages under clearly defined participation and repayment arrangements.

“This approach is intended to promote ownership, accountability and sustainability while enabling beneficiaries to establish viable enterprises capable of creating employment opportunities for others,” the statement added.

Speaking on the initiative, the Director-General of the ITF, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, stated that the programme is a strategic intervention aimed at transforming skilled artisans into successful business owners and employers of labour.

According to him, the programme goes beyond skills acquisition by providing a structured pathway for artisans to transition into entrepreneurship and contribute meaningfully to national economic development.

“The ITF Business Incubation Programme for SUPA Artisans is designed to ensure that the skills acquired through the SUPA Programme translate into sustainable livelihoods, thriving enterprises and increased economic opportunities for Nigerian youths. Our goal is to nurture a new generation of artisans who will drive MSME growth, create jobs and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s industrial development,” he said.

Dignitaries expected at the launch include Vice President Kashim Shetimma; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Senator John Owan Enoh; Special Adviser to the President of MSMEs, Mr. Tola Johnson; Director-General of SMEDAN, Charles Odili, development partners, financial institutions, artisan associations, members of the National MSME Council, and other stakeholders in the entrepreneurship and enterprise development ecosystem.