The Federal Government has commenced the nationwide screening exercise for the 2026 Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme, a major initiative aimed at developing a highly skilled workforce by equipping Nigerian artisans with practical, digital, and entrepreneurial skills that meet global industry standards.
The programme, implemented by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), seeks to transform the country's artisan sector by improving the quality of vocational services while enhancing employment opportunities and productivity across key industries.
According to the Federal Government, the screening exercise is taking place across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to identify qualified applicants for the next phase of training.
The Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA) is designed to upgrade the skills of artisans in various trades, including electrical installation, plumbing, welding, carpentry, masonry, automobile repair, refrigeration and air conditioning, tailoring, painting, tiling, and other technical occupations.
Successful participants will receive industry-relevant training, digital skills, business development support, and professional certification aimed at improving their competitiveness in both local and international labour markets.
The initiative forms part of the Federal Government's broader strategy to reduce unemployment, bridge the country's technical skills gap, and create a pool of certified artisans capable of supporting Nigeria's industrialisation agenda.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the programme, applicants are generally expected to:
Be a Nigerian citizen.
Be an artisan or possess demonstrable vocational or technical skills in a recognised trade.
Be willing to participate fully in the screening and training process.
Possess a valid means of identification.
Meet any additional requirements specified by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).
How to Apply
Individuals who have already registered for the programme are required to attend the screening exercise at their designated centres as communicated by the organisers.
Those who are yet to register should visit the official SUPA portal or the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) website for updates on registration and future application windows.
Official Portal: https://supa.itf.gov.ng
Applicants are advised to use only official government platforms and avoid third-party websites requesting payment for registration.
Screening Schedule
The Federal Government has announced that screening is currently ongoing nationwide. Applicants are encouraged to monitor official ITF communication channels for their screening dates, venues, and further instructions.
The SUPA initiative is expected to produce thousands of globally competitive artisans equipped with modern technical knowledge, digital competencies, and entrepreneurial skills. Government officials say the programme will also improve service quality within Nigeria's informal sector while creating more opportunities for self-employment and economic growth.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, noting that investing in vocational education and technical skills is essential for addressing youth unemployment, boosting productivity, and supporting Nigeria's long-term economic development.