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Unlock Your Potential with the ITF Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Program

Written by Ahmadu Joe Yusuf | Jul 7, 2025 10:52:43 AM

Are you a skilled artisan looking to elevate your craft, or an aspiring one eager to learn a valuable trade? Do you believe in the power of practical skills to transform lives and build a stronger Nigeria? Then get ready, because the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), has launched a groundbreaking initiative just for you: the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) program!

Nigeria has long faced a challenge with a shortage of skilled manpower, partly due to a societal preference for white-collar jobs. But the world is changing, and technology is reshaping industries. The SUPA program is designed to reverse this trend, professionalize vocational trades, and empower a new generation of Nigerian artisans with tech-enabled skills that meet global standards.1

 

What is SUPA All About?

The Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) program is a transformative national initiative with an ambitious goal: to up-skill, license, and empower a staggering 10 million young artisans across Nigeria.1 It's more than just training; it's about building a robust, certified workforce that can drive economic growth and deliver quality services.

The program aims to:

  • Identify, register, and categorize artisans across various economic sectors, creating a comprehensive national database.1

  • Provide Industry 4.0 compliant and certified training in a wide range of trades, from carpentry and masonry to plumbing and electrical work, including crucial health and safety modules.1

  • Help artisans access essential tools, equipment, and funds to expand their businesses.1

  • Ensure Nigerian artisans are formally certified and licensed, operating with standardized methods and practices.1

  • Enhance employment opportunities for certified artisans, both locally and internationally.1

 

Who Can Join SUPA?

The SUPA program is designed to be inclusive and accessible. You are eligible to apply if you are:

  • A Nigerian citizen.1

  • Ready to acquire any of the diverse skills offered through the program.1

  • Committed to participating in the program until its successful completion.1

The program welcomes not only individual "skilled artisans" and "intending artisans" but also "training centers" that provide vocational training, fostering a comprehensive ecosystem for skill development.1

 

What's In It For You? The Benefits!

Joining the SUPA program opens doors to a wealth of opportunities and benefits:

  • Upskilling and Empowerment: You'll gain enhanced skills, official licensing, and overall empowerment, boosting your professional standing and credibility.1

  • Access to Essential Toolkits: Participants will gain full access to vital toolkits, enabling you to apply your new skills immediately.1

  • International Certification: The program emphasizes preparing you for international certification examinations from globally recognized bodies, ensuring your skills meet global benchmarks and enhancing your competitiveness.5

  • Entrepreneurial Training: Beyond technical skills, you'll receive crucial entrepreneurial training to help you manage, market, and grow your trade.5

  • Free Certification Exams: Artisans who complete Phase I training will have the opportunity to write the subsequent certification examination at no cost.5

  • Enhanced Employment Opportunities: The program aims to create direct linkages for graduates with gainful employment, including potential for international work placement.5

  • Stipends: Artisans participating in the training will receive stipends to help cover transportation costs and provide financial relief during the training period.5

Ready to Register? Here's How!

The registration process for the SUPA program is straightforward and conducted online. Follow these simple steps to begin your journey:

  1. Visit the official SUPA online platform: www.supa.itf.gov.ng.1

  2. Click on the "Register" button.1

  3. Select your user type: choose between "skilled artisan," "intending artisan," or "training center".1

  4. Fill in all the required information accurately. These fields are typically marked with red asterisks.1

  5. Create a new password for your account.1

  6. Click on "Sign Up" to complete the initial registration.1

  7. After signing up, you will be redirected to the login page. Log in using your newly created credentials (email and password).1

  8. You will then be prompted to complete your Know Your Customer (KYC) form.1

  9. Finally, submit your completed application.1

Important Warning: Registration is FREE!

The ITF explicitly states: "Do not give money to any person or agent for this registration. Anyone collecting money is breaking the law and will be in serious trouble. If someone asks you for money to register, please report them immediately to the nearest ITF office or to the police".7 Please ensure you only register through the official website and do not pay anyone for the application.

This is your chance to be part of a national movement to transform Nigeria's workforce and secure a brighter future for yourself. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to skill up, get licensed, and stand out! Visit www.supa.itf.gov.ng today and register!