Over the years, artisanry practice in Nigeria has been neglected by successive governments despite its potentials of driving the nation’s economy.
Statistics revealed that informal sector being the golden goose that contributes to about sixty percent of the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product, GDP, is dominated by unprofessional artisans leading to quackery and sub-standard jobs delivery.
To change the narrative, the Industrial Training Fund, ITF, joined force with the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria, CIPMN to enhance the skills of artisans to meet best international practice as well as be in tandem with its contemporary in other climes.
Speaking at a joint news conference in Abuja, the Director General, ITF, Afiz Ogun said the partnership under the Skill-Up Artisans, SUPA programme was born out of the need to entrench skills and professionalism in their practice.
The Registrar, CIPMN, Henry Mbadiwe, said the move by the Industrial Training Fund for the Special Certification of Nigerian artisans, trained under the Skill-Up Artisans Programme was in the best interest of the country.
The two heads of agencies further, called on both the government and private sectors to key into the programme for the overall interest of the country.
They however, commended President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Anite for the overwhelming support given them to contribute their quota in nation building.
