“62 Nigerian Youths Graduate as Skilled Artisans in ITF-NECA Training Programme”

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF), in collaboration with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), has graduated 62 young Nigerians from the Batch XIV phase of the ITF-NECA Technical Skills Development Project in Lagos.

The graduation ceremony, held at the Industrial Skills Training Centre in Ikeja, marked another milestone in ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s technical manpower and reduce youth unemployment through skills acquisition.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of ITF, Dr. Afiz Ogun, said the programme was designed to bridge the skills gap in critical sectors of the economy by equipping young people with industry-relevant competencies. He noted that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to developing a self-reliant and productive workforce.

Dr. Ogun commended NECA for its consistent partnership and support, describing the collaboration as a model for effective public-private sector engagement. He urged the graduands to apply their newly acquired skills responsibly and contribute meaningfully to national development.

The trainees received both theoretical and hands-on instruction in various technical trades, including auto mechanics, electrical installation, welding and fabrication, refrigeration and air conditioning, and information and communication technology. Following three months of industrial attachment, 62 participants met the requirements to earn the ITF-NECA Certificate of Competence.

One of the graduands, Henry Okwonkwo, who emerged as the best trainee in welding and fabrication, expressed appreciation for the programme, saying it had equipped participants with practical knowledge and confidence to thrive in the workplace.

The ceremony also highlighted the growing participation of women in technical fields traditionally dominated by men, reinforcing the programme’s commitment to inclusiveness and equal opportunity.