Federal Government Launches Free Nationwide Training For Vocational Teachers Across Nigeria

The Federal Government has officially launched a free nationwide training program for vocational instructors across Nigeria. This initiative is part of a broader push to improve the quality of technical and occupational education and ensure that teachers are well-equipped with up-to-date knowledge and modern teaching techniques.

Organized under the "Skill-up Artisans (SUPA) Programme" by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF)—a government agency under the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment—the training seeks to transform how vocational education is delivered in both public and private institutions.

Equipping Teachers for Modern Demands

At the program's launch in Abuja, Dr. Afiz Ogun, Director-General of the ITF, emphasized the importance of empowering educators with contemporary tools and methods.

“A nation’s future depends largely on the quality of its teachers,” Dr. Ogun said. “This program is about helping our vocational instructors stay current, relevant, and impactful.”

He noted that teachers are at the heart of hands-on learning, and when they are well-prepared, students are more likely to succeed in their respective occupations.

What the Program Offers

This training opportunity, which is free for all participants, includes comprehensive instruction on:

• Innovative teaching methods for technical and vocational subjects

• Use of technology and digital tools in teaching

• Health and safety best practices for workshop and lab environments

• Entrepreneurial knowledge for guiding students into self-reliance

• Communication, problem-solving, and collaboration in training environments

Participants will also receive certificates, resource materials, and continued support even after the program ends.

Implementation Across the Nation

The initiative is being rolled out across all six geopolitical zones. Initial training centers are located in Lagos, Kaduna, Enugu, Rivers, Bauchi, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with more locations planned in the coming phases.

The ITF expects thousands of instructors to benefit from this program in its first round, with long-term goals including:

• Improving teaching standards in vocational institutions

• Producing more competent and job-ready graduates

• Strengthening local industries through better workforce preparation

• Encouraging self-reliance and practical entrepreneurship across communities

Why This Matters Now

Nigeria is currently facing a paradox—millions of young people are out of work, yet many businesses are unable to find qualified hands for technical roles. Vocational education offers a practical route to economic opportunity, but it begins with capable and confident teachers.

This nationwide training is a timely intervention designed to raise the standard of teaching, modernize outdated approaches, and ultimately make technical learning more relevant and effective.

It also supports President Bola Tinubu’s broader national agenda focused on reducing unemployment, supporting industries, and investing in human development.

Conclusion

With this free government-led program now in motion, vocational instructors across Nigeria have a valuable opportunity to grow professionally and help shape a stronger future for young learners.

By investing in the people who train our tradespeople, Nigeria is laying the groundwork for a more productive, hands-on workforce—one that can meet today’s challenges and build for tomorrow.