About 100,000 participants in the second phase of the Industrial Training Fund’s (ITF) Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme will sit for examinations on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. 

In a statement signed by Thomas Ngor, Head of Press and Public Relations at the ITF, the agency said the examinations will be conducted by the Chartered Institute of Project Management of Nigeria (CIPMN) to assess trainees’ proficiency in the soft skills components of the SUPA curriculum. 

The curriculum includes modules on project management, occupational health and safety, and professional ethics—areas designed to boost artisans’ capabilities and align them with international standards. 

Speaking ahead of the exercise, ITF Director-General and Chief Executive, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, reiterated the Fund’s commitment to training, certifying, and licensing Nigerian artisans with globally recognized credentials. 

“Our goal is to build an indigenous workforce capable of competing with their global peers,” Dr. Ogun said. 

He stressed that access to internationally accredited certifications would help reduce unemployment and tackle related socio-economic challenges by equipping artisans with marketable skills. 

Dr. Ogun further explained that the SUPA certification framework integrates globally recognized qualifications to improve employability. He disclosed that in addition to securing approval from City & Guilds London (UK) as one of its designated examination centres in Nigeria, the ITF is also in advanced discussions with ALBERK QA TECHNIC of Turkey and other international bodies to broaden certification options. 

According to him, such globally aligned certifications will enable Nigerian artisans to pursue opportunities abroad while leveraging the country’s youthful population of over 70 million to export skilled labour and generate foreign exchange. 

Outlining the certification process, Dr. Ogun said the programme is structured into three phases: the Foundation stage for basic skills assessment, SUPA I for soft skills development (culminating in the upcoming CIPMN exams), and SUPA II for advanced technical training. 

He noted that successful trainees who complete the programme will obtain certifications that validate their skills for direct employment, international placements, or self-employment. 

Dr. Ogun also commended the Chartered Institute of Project Management of Nigeria for its critical role in the programme. 

“CIPMN has been a steadfast partner since the program’s inception. We are confident that the examinations they will oversee will meet the high standards expected,” he said.