By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Industrial Training Fund (), in collaboration with the Cement Technology Institute of Nigeria (), has concluded plans to train and upskill 100,000 artisans in Nigeria’s construction sector.
The initiative, which will be implemented in phases across the country, is aimed at equipping artisans with practical skills in masonry, carpentry and joinery, tiling, electrical installation, Plaster of Paris (PoP), plumbing and pipe fitting.
A statement signed by the Head, Press and Public Relations Unit of ITF, Thomas Ngor, and made available to newsmen in on Thursday, said the programme is scheduled to be officially launched on April 21, 2026, in Lagos.
According to the statement, key stakeholders from government and industry are expected to attend the launch, including the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh.
Others expected at the event include the Chairman of Dangote Group and President of CTIN, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman of BUA Group, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu; Group Managing Director/CEO of Lafarge Cement, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi; and the Director-General of ITF, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun.
Speaking ahead of the launch, the ITF Director-General described the partnership as a strategic intervention to bridge the skills gap in the construction industry.
He said the initiative aligns with ITF’s mandate of equipping Nigerians with industry-relevant skills to boost productivity, employability and national development.
He noted that the programme comes at a critical time when cases of building collapse are rising, largely due to poor workmanship, inadequate training and substandard construction practices.
According to him, the collaboration will equip artisans with technical competencies, promote adherence to industry standards, and foster professionalism in the sector.
He added that beneficiaries of the ITF Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme will gain access to enhanced training modules, modern construction techniques, and certification opportunities.
The ITF boss said the programme is expected to improve employability, earning potential, and overall quality of construction projects nationwide, while strengthening public confidence in the sector.
