Nigeria Approves N3.6 Billion Fund to Incubate Tailoring Businesses

The Nigerian federal government has allocated N3.6 billion to establish a business incubation fund specifically for tailors, aiming to professionalize the informal sector and foster sustainable enterprises. The initiative, approved by President Bola Tinubu, is being implemented through the Industrial Training Fund's (ITF) Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme. Dr. Afiz Ogun, Director General/Chief Executive of ITF, announced the approval during a nationwide screening of applicants for the 2026 edition of the program in Abuja. This intervention marks a strategic shift from previous empowerment models, focusing instead on building robust and sustainable businesses within the tailoring profession. Ogun highlighted that tailors represent a significant portion of participants in the scheme. The first phase of the 2026 program anticipates benefiting around 200,000 artisans. To ensure the program's integrity, screening is being conducted simultaneously across all senatorial districts. This process involves not only verifying documents but also assessing applicants' competence and dedication. The government is committed to preventing individuals from exploiting the program solely for financial gain, emphasizing the need for genuine artisans prepared to enhance their skills and expand their businesses. The SUPA program is a key initiative under the Tinubu administration, designed to enhance Nigeria's technical and vocational workforce and reduce reliance on foreign artisans, who have increasingly dominated opportunities within the country's informal economy. Beyond training, the program aims to create a structured database of artisans, issue internationally recognized certifications, and introduce a licensing regime to promote professionalism and accountability across the sector. Ogun stated the government's goal is for Nigerian artisans to be trained, certified, and licensed, enabling clients to verify qualifications and hold practitioners accountable.

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We are screening them because some people claim to be artisans when they are not. Some only want to collect government support without participating in the training. We want genuine artisans who are prepared to improve their skills and grow their businesses.