Shettima to unveil ITF’s new business incubation initiative

The Industrial Training Fund has said that Vice President Kashim Shettima will unveil a new Business Incubation Programme aimed at equipping Nigerian artisans with the skills, resources, and support needed to build sustainable enterprises. According to the ITF, the initiative represents a major step in the Federal Government’s commitment to skills development, youth empowerment, and economic growth. In a statement released in Jos on Tuesday and signed by its Director, Press and Public Relations Unit, Thomas Ngor, ITF described the initiative as “a transformative initiative designed to support graduates of the SUPA Programme in establishing and growing sustainable businesses across Nigeria.” According to the Fund, “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.” Under the programme, “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.” ITF stated 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.” Related News Dangote unveils plans for Ondo industrial hub MAN opposes proposed ban on thin plastics W’Bank ranks Apapa, Tin Can ports among top performers Speaking on the initiative, the Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund, Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, said the programme is “a strategic intervention aimed at transforming skilled artisans into successful business owners and employers of labour.” He stated that “the programme goes beyond skills acquisition by providing a structured pathway for artisans to transition into entrepreneurship and contribute meaningfully to national economic development.” He added, “The ITF Business Incubation Programme for S