NGO, others train 163 artisans in Kogi

A Non-Governmental Organisation, Ladi Memorial Foundation (LMF), Chateko Vocational Institute (CVI) in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Skill Up Artisan (SUPA) have trained 163 youths towards bridging the skilled manpower gap in Nigeria.

Moses Ochala, the ITF SUPA Coordinator, while speaking during the Certificates’ presentation ceremony in Lokoja said the programme aimed to empower Nigerian youths with skills and certifications, initiated by President Bola Tinubu in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said: “The ITF SUPA aims to bridge the skilled manpower gap in Nigeria by providing training, tools, and resources to artisans.

“It seeks to enhance the skills of both existing and aspiring artisans, equip them with international certifications, and connect them to the real economy.

“The program also focuses on improving employment opportunities for artisans in local and international markets.”

He commended President Tinubu’s administration for introducing the programme, which he described as one of the best initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare and well-being of citizens, as he urged the beneficiaries to appreciate the programme’s values and benefits.

Rosemary Osikoya, executive director of LMF Chateko Vocational Institute, disclosed that the organisation collaborated with the ITF to empower individuals with skills in garment making fashion design and embroidery.

Osikoya noted that the certificate presentation was part of activities towards the 3rd edition of the National Sewing Championship 2025 (NSC25) sensitisation, an LMF ongoing project supported by UNESCO, Federal Ministry of Education, and other stakeholders.

“The LMF Chateko Vocational Institute, is focusing on training people for livelihood improvement, enabling them to become self – reliant and entrepreneurs.

“Between July and September 2024, a total of 163 persons were trained in various garment making, embroidery and fashion design trade courses, making them eligible for National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) trade certification.

“This initiative is part of LMF’s commitment to improving skills, knowledge, and general competence in these areas.

“Since 2019, over 500 artisans have written trade certification exams at LMF Chateko Vocational Institute in Lokoja and Abuja,” he said.

eneficiaries: Treasure Isiaka and Agatha Ojodale, commended the ITF and LMF for the opportunity given to them, saying it would go a long way to improving their well-being and livelihoods.

They promised to utilise the acquired skills to enable them become entrepreneurs and employers of labour in the society.