The Federal government, under the leadership of Minister Doris Uzoka-Anite in the realm of Industry, Trade, and Investment, has articulated a robust ambition to foster the generation of one million employment opportunities.
This ambitious undertaking is encapsulated within the framework of the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP), as elucidated by Minister Uzoka-Anite herself during the conclusive proceedings of the 2023 National Skills Development Programme held in the capital city of Abuja.
In this progressive initiative, the government is not only envisioning substantial job creation but is also strategically positioning itself to tap into the immense potential of the National Artisan Registration and Development Programme (NARDEP).
Minister Uzoka-Anite expounded on the multifaceted objectives of NARDEP, emphasizing its role in instilling essential technical and vocational skills.
Furthermore, NARDEP seeks to attain the certification of Nigerian artisans in alignment with global best practices. An integral facet of this program involves facilitating internships for artisan learners in collaboration with industry partners.
Providing a broader perspective, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, the Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), shed light on the impactful strides made by the program.
“Since its inception, the ITF has empowered over 500,000 individuals across the length and breadth of Nigeria with cutting-edge skills spanning diverse trades.”
“These comprehensive initiatives underscore a collective and concerted effort by the government to not only create employment opportunities but also to nurture a skilled and empowered workforce, thereby contributing to the overarching goals of economic growth and development in Nigeria.”
Minister Uzoka-Anite highlighted the commencement of the National Artisan Registration and Development Programme (NARDEP), focusing on imparting technical and vocational skills, certifying Nigerian artisans globally, and facilitating internship placements with industry partners.
NARDEP is expected to drive the realization of NATEP, aiming to generate a million service export jobs within the next five years.
The minister emphasized the goals of boosting foreign exchange earnings, increasing revenue for Nigeria, fostering the growth of ancillary industries, supporting services, and enhancing skills development.
The director-general of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, shared that the program has already equipped over 500,000 Nigerians across the country with cutting-edge skills in various trades.
Dr. Ogun further highlighted the achievements of the ITF National Youth Empowerment Programmes, revealing its implementation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
This year, the program trained 190 youths and women, providing them with skills in solar power installation, POP and painting, hairdressing/beauty, car and mobile phone repairs, leatherworks (shoe and bag making), and electrical installation.
These initiatives signify a concerted effort to empower individuals, contribute to economic growth, and enhance the overall skill set of the Nigerian workforce.
