The Industrial Training Fund, together with the Nigerian Employers' Consultative Association, has completed training for 62 participants from Batch XIV of the ITF-NECA Technical Skills Development Program at the Industrial Skills Training Center in Ikeja, Lagos.
At the commencement ceremony, Dr Afiz Ogun, Director-General and Chief Executive of ITF, referred to the occasion as "yet another step forward in developing a base of local human resources for Nigeria's economy."
He stated, "This event represents yet another achievement in our endeavors to develop local workforce for Nigeria's economy, as required by the legislation that created ITF."
Ogun stated that the ITF-NECA Technical Skills Development Initiative aimed to provide young Nigerians with practical, job-ready abilities to tackle the nation's shortage of skilled workers.
"The ITF-NECA Technical Skills Enhancement Program is an joint effort designed to provide young people in Nigeria with relevant abilities to meet the nation's workforce requirements," he stated.
He praised NECA for maintaining the initiative, highlighting that the cooperation illustrated the effectiveness of joint efforts between the public and private sectors.
"This partnership serves as an impressive example of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors come together with a common objective. The knowledge of industry requirements possessed by NECA, along with their dedication to maintaining high standards and increasing efficiency, has played a crucial role in developing this program to be meaningful, thorough, and focused on achieving outcomes," Ogun stated.
Speaking to the graduates, the ITF leader encouraged them to view themselves as drivers of transformation and participants in the country's progress.
"As you finish your studies today and prepare to face an uncertain world, I encourage you to build the nation you wish to live in. Strive to do your utmost and take part in the progress of our country to help advance Nigeria," he stated.
He stated, "As graduates and representatives of the ITF-NECA TSDP program, it is your responsibility to introduce fresh concepts, creative solutions, and breakthroughs that will uplift the country."
Ogun also mentioned additional skill development programs offered by the Fund, notably the Skills-Up Artisans Program, which he referred to as a key project matching the Federal Government’s National Talent Export Initiative.
"The objective of the SUPA initiative is to educate 10 million Nigerians within two years, covering various economic sectors. I urge the graduates present today to participate in the program once the online platform becomes available again," he stated.
During his opening speech, Mr Akeem Salimonu, the Training Manager at ISTC in Ikeja, stated that the event was more than just an acknowledgment of success; it served as "evidence of the strength found in teamwork, perseverance, and forward-thinking."
"Thanks to the vision of ITF and NECA, this initiative was established to tackle one of the country's most urgent issues—the disparity between the abilities of our youth and the needs of today’s industries," Salimonu stated.
He mentioned that the collaboration has equipped numerous young people with marketable abilities, simultaneously fostering economic development.
"The effect is clear: tens of thousands of young Nigerians have acquired job-ready abilities, businesses now have access to skilled workers, and our country has made substantial progress in industrial growth," he said.
Salimonu revealed that ISTC-Ikeja has been involved in the program since it began more than 15 years ago and was recently recognized by NECA for its leading role in implementing the initiative in 2025.
He mentioned, "A total of 804 applications were submitted, with 350 meeting the eligibility criteria for the exam, and 130 being called for the final interview, out of whom 70 trainees were chosen."
He mentioned that 62 participants fulfilled the requirements for completion and were awarded the ITF-NECA Certificate of Competence.
"I am honored to declare that this year, we are graduating 62 participants who have fulfilled our standards in both ability and integrity, shaping the nation's future," Salimonu stated.
He stated that the graduates underwent instruction in Automotive Mechanics Repair, machinery upkeep and metalworking, electric system repair, welding and construction, instrument and process regulation, cooling and ventilation systems, as well as information and telecommunications technology.
Salimonu also emphasized the involvement of females in the initiative, stating, "Among those graduating, we have women who have demonstrated that acquiring technical skills is not exclusive to men."
Giving the farewell address for the graduating students, the representative from Class XIV, Mr. Henry Okwonkwo, mentioned that the program provided them with long-lasting abilities and practical knowledge. Okwonkwo was recognized as the top trainee in the welding and manufacturing department.
"Today signifies the final day of our six-month comprehensive classroom instruction and practical training program, which has equipped us to be skilled professionals in our respective fields," he stated.
He mentioned that the three-month industrial internship connected theoretical knowledge with practical application.
"Industrial training enabled us to apply theoretical and practical learning from classes and workshops to actual situations, instilling in us a sense of self-reliance when it comes to employment," Okwonkwo stated.
He thanked ITF and NECA for maintaining the program and providing ongoing support to participants during their training: "We benefited from free classes, meals, and monthly allowances to help with travel expenses, along with guidance in finding internships and employment."
Graduates also expressed gratitude to their families for their encouragement, stating, "With your steadfast support and faith in us, we wouldn’t be part of the celebration today."
The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and an appeal to graduates to act as honorable representatives of the ITF-NECA Technical Skills Development Program.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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