The Federal Government has launched a N3.6 billion business incubation programme through the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to support tailors across Nigeria with business development, mentorship and enterprise growth opportunities.
The programme was unveiled by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the ITF, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, during the launch of the Nigeria Artisans for the Renewed Hope Initiative in Akure, Ondo State.
According to Ogun, the initiative is designed to move beyond the traditional model of distributing starter packs by helping artisans build sustainable and profitable businesses.
He said the scheme will specifically target tailors nationwide, providing support that combines technical skills with entrepreneurship development.
“This initiative goes far beyond distributing starter packs. We want artisans not only to master their trades but also to build thriving enterprises. Mentorship, project management and business development are central components,” Ogun said.
The ITF boss noted that artisans play a critical role in Nigeria’s economy and said the Federal Government is increasing investments in skills development as part of broader efforts to improve productivity, entrepreneurship and competitiveness.
He added that the incubation programme is expected to strengthen the capacity of tailors to run successful businesses, create jobs and contribute more effectively to economic growth.
Beyond the N3.6 billion incubation scheme, Ogun disclosed that the ITF is expanding partnerships aimed at improving the quality of vocational training in the country.
According to him, the Fund is working with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to provide globally recognised certification and continuous capacity-building opportunities for artisans.
The certification programme is expected to improve the professional standing of Nigerian artisans while enhancing their ability to compete in local and international markets.
Ogun also highlighted ongoing investments by the ITF in digital fabrication infrastructure across the country.
He said the Fund is establishing digital fabrication centres dedicated to sectors including metal works, wood processing, ceramics, glass and leather production.
According to him, the first digital metal fabrication centre is already operational in Lagos, while additional centres are being developed in Ondo, Benin, Nasarawa, Akwa Ibom and Kano.
“We are creating facilities that will allow artisans to design and manufacture products using advanced technology,” he said.
The ITF believes that strengthening vocational skills and supporting artisans with business incubation services can help address unemployment while creating new opportunities for enterprise development.
Ogun described artisanship as one of the practical pathways to economic empowerment and job creation, adding that investments in skills and vocational training remain essential for Nigeria’s long-term development.
The announcement comes as the Federal Government continues to promote programmes aimed at supporting small businesses, improving workforce skills and expanding opportunities for self-employment across different sectors of the economy.
For tailors, the new ITF incubation scheme could provide access to mentorship, business support services and professional development opportunities that go beyond technical training, with a focus on building stronger and more sustainable enterprises nationwide.
