The Federal Government has approved a N3.6 billion intervention to support tailors under the Industrial Training Fund's (ITF) Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) programme as part of efforts to boost vocational skills, create jobs and strengthen Nigeria's informal sector.
The Director-General of the ITF, Afiz Ogun, announced the approval on Wednesday during the nationwide screening of applicants for the 2026 edition of the programme in Abuja.
According to Ogun, the screening exercise is aimed at ensuring that only genuine artisans benefit from the initiative. Successful participants will be prepared for employment opportunities, linked with employers or enrolled in a structured business incubation programme.
He disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved N3.6 billion specifically to support tailors, who make up the largest group of participants in the programme.
Ogun said about 200,000 artisans are expected to benefit from the 2026 edition nationwide, adding that the government has moved away from distributing starter packs after training because many beneficiaries previously sold the equipment instead of using it to establish businesses.
Instead, participants will receive support through three pathways: international job placement, direct employment or business incubation.
Tailors selected for the incubation programme will be provided with industrial sewing machines, overlock machines, cutting equipment and other essential tools, alongside mentorship, entrepreneurship training and technical support to help them build sustainable businesses.
The ITF also plans to introduce a digital marketplace where certified artisans can showcase their work, receive customer ratings and connect directly with potential clients.
The SUPA programme, launched in 2024, is designed to improve the skills of Nigerian artisans, reduce unemployment and produce globally competitive professionals across key vocational trades.
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