NDDC, ITF Collaborate to empower Niger Delta youths with skills through artisans program

In a bid to actualize the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) initiative championed by the Federal Government for the benefit of Niger Delta youths, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) have embarked on a collaborative effort.

During a courtesy visit by an ITF delegation to the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of NDDC, expressed enthusiasm about the SUPA program, affirming the Commission’s commitment to facilitating its objectives.

Dr. Ogbuku highlighted the significance of SUPA in creating skilled workforce opportunities domestically and internationally, boosting economic growth, and reducing crime rates in the Niger Delta region.

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He announced plans for the collaboration to ensure that Niger Delta artisans benefit from the SUPA initiative, including partnering with ITF to provide training opportunities and support for artisans and youths in the region.

Emphasizing on the need for sustainable engagement, Ogbuku revealed the establishment of a committee to oversee the collaboration with ITF, alongside partnerships with other key stakeholders such as the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA).

Dr. Afiz Ogun, Director General of ITF, praised the SUPA program’s vision to empower 10 million artisans with tech-enabled skills, aligning with global industry standards. He commended NDDC’s eagerness to facilitate the initiative and proposed the formation of a joint committee to develop a collaboration framework.