ITF Marks 55 Years of Driving Skills, Industrial Growth

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has marked its 55th anniversary in Jos, Nigeria, with Director-General and CEO Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun underscoring the institution's achievements and dedication to enhancing skills development and human capital. Since its inception in 1971, the ITF has remained relevant by adapting to evolving economic and workforce needs.

Ogun highlighted the expansion of skills acquisition programs, strengthened international and local partnerships, digitization of operations, improved staff welfare, and upgradation of training infrastructure nationwide. The ITF's Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) program, which trains, certifies, and professionalizes artisans across the country, was identified as a flagship initiative.

The Fund has also contributed to Nigeria's global competitiveness by forming strategic collaborations and establishing structures aligned with international standards. Managing Director and CEO of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), Alhaji Bamanga Usman Jada, praised the ITF for its role in developing Nigeria's human capital and commended the quality of facilities at the ITF Centre of Excellence in Jos, which he deemed to be of international standard.

Jada emphasized that Nigeria's future prosperity hinges on human resource development and stressed the ITF's crucial role in converting the country's expanding population into a skilled and productive workforce. The celebration of the ITF's anniversary included government officials, industry leaders, development partners, members of the organized private sector, and ITF staff.

Attendees expressed confidence in the Fund's continued pivotal role in enhancing workforce competitiveness and supporting Nigeria's long-term economic development goals.