The Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme is one of the most significant opportunities for Nigerian artisans today. If you are a tailor, plumber, electrician, welder, or skilled worker in any trade, this Federal Government initiative could completely transform your career.
Launched by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the Skill-Up Artisans Programme is designed to equip Nigerian artisans with modern technical skills, internationally recognised certifications, and business support. The programme aims to train and certify 10 million artisans across Nigeria .
In this comprehensive guide, I will walk you through exactly how to apply for the SUPA programme, step by step.
What Is the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme?
The Skill-Up Artisans Programme is a flagship human capital development initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria, implemented by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF). The programme focuses on training, certifying, and licensing artisans in high-demand vocational trades such as welding, electrical installation, plumbing, tailoring, automobile repairs, tiling, and many more .
Why the Programme Matters
For years, Nigeria has faced a growing challenge: many employment opportunities in the artisanal sector have been filled by foreign workers from neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and China. This happened because many local artisans lacked the contemporary technical skills and internationally recognised certifications required by industry.
The Skill-Up Artisans Programme was specifically designed to bridge this gap. By equipping Nigerian artisans with modern technical competencies, globally recognised certifications, and industry-relevant skills, the programme enables them to compete successfully both within Nigeria and in the international labour market .
Benefits of the Skill-Up Artisans Programme
Before we dive into the application process, let me share what you stand to gain from this programme. Understanding the benefits will help you appreciate why this opportunity is worth pursuing.
Free Technical Training
The training is completely free of charge. The ITF pays master trainers and even provides transportation stipends to beneficiaries during the training period .
Internationally Recognised Certification
Participants undergo internationally recognised certification examinations. In 2025, graduates sat for certification exams conducted by officials from Turkey and received globally recognised certificates that qualify them to practise anywhere in the world .
Three Pathway Opportunities
Upon completion, beneficiaries exit through one of three pathways:
International talent export – working abroad
Direct job placement – with local and international organisations
Business incubation – receiving equipment and mentorship to grow their businesses
Access to Essential Toolkits and Equipment
Successful participants receive toolkits and equipment. For tailors, this includes industrial sewing machines, overlock machines, electric cutters, and branded business signboards .
Business Incubation and Mentorship
The programme provides long-term mentoring, entrepreneurship support, and technical assistance to ensure the sustainability of beneficiaries’ businesses .
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the following requirements:
Be a Nigerian citizen
Be a practising artisan with existing skills in a trade
Be willing to acquire and improve on the skills offered by the programme
Be available to participate in the programme until the end
Important clarification: The SUPA programme is NOT a general empowerment scheme. It is specifically for practising artisans who already have skills and want to improve them to meet international standards .
Steps Applying for the Skill-Up Artisans Programme
Now, let me walk you through the step-by-step application process.
Step 1: Visit the Official SUPA Portal
Go to the official registration portal at SUPA Programme.
Important warning: The SUPA programme is completely free. If anybody asks you to pay any money for registration or facilitation, report them immediately. The ITF has warned applicants against anyone demanding payment .
Step 2: Create Your Account
On the registration page:
Click on “Register”
Select your user type – choose from “skilled artisan,” “intending artisan,” or “training center”
Fill in all required information (marked with red asterisks), including your name, residential address, date of birth, phone number, location, and National Identification Number (NIN)
Create a password
Click on “Sign Up”
Step 3: Log In and Complete Your Profile
After signing up, you will be redirected to the login page. Log in with your email and password. You will then be redirected to complete your KYC (Know Your Customer) form .
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After completing the KYC form, proceed to submit your application .
Step 5: Await Shortlisting
Only applicants who are shortlisted by the ITF will be eligible to participate in the screening exercise .
Step 6: Attend Screening (If Shortlisted)
If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to a screening exercise at your designated centre. The screening is designed to verify your eligibility and assess your practical experience .
What to expect at screening:
Verification of your credentials and identification documents
An interview to confirm you are a genuine artisan
Assessment of your commitment and readiness for training
What to bring:
All requested credentials and identification documents
Your National Identification Number (NIN)
Any documents that prove your trade experience
Step 7: Complete Training and Certification
Successful candidates proceed to three months of intensive vocational training. After training, you will sit for industry-standard certification examinations .
Important Dates and Timeline
The 2026 SUPA programme screening took place in two phases:
Northern Zone (North-Central, North-West, North-East): July 14–17, 2026
Southern Zone (South-East, South-West, South-South): July 21–24, 2026
Screening was conducted simultaneously across the three senatorial districts of each state and the Federal Capital Territory .
Note: If you missed the 2026 screening, keep an eye on the ITF website and official channels for announcements about the next phase of the programme. The registration portal may reopen for new applications.
Trades Covered Under the SUPA Programme
The Skill-Up Artisans Programme covers a wide range of vocational trades, including:
Garment making and tailoring
Plumbing
Welding
Tiling
Automobile repairs
Crop production
Domestic electrical installations
Scaffolding
Carpentry
Masonry
And many more
Is the Skill-Up Artisans Programme free?
Yes, the Skill-Up Artisans Programme is completely free. The ITF has repeatedly warned applicants against anyone demanding payment for registration or facilitation. If anybody asks you to pay money, report them immediately to the ITF so appropriate action can be taken.
Who is eligible to apply for the SUPA programme?
To be eligible, you must be a Nigerian citizen and a practising artisan with existing skills in a trade. The programme is specifically designed for artisans who already have practical skills and want to upgrade them to international standards. It is not a general empowerment scheme for beginners.
What documents do I need for the SUPA programme application?
You will need your National Identification Number (NIN), personal information (name, address, date of birth, phone number, location), and any credentials that prove your trade experience. At the screening stage, you should bring all requested identification and credentials.
Can I apply for the SUPA programme without formal education?
Yes. The Skill-Up Artisans Programme focuses on practical vocational skills rather than formal academic qualifications. What matters most is that you are a genuine artisan with hands-on experience in your trade.
What happens after completing the SUPA training?
After completing the training and certification, beneficiaries exit through three pathways: international talent export (working abroad), direct job placement with local and international organisations, or business incubation where they receive equipment, mentorship, and support to establish sustainable businesses.
How long does the SUPA training last?
The training programme lasts approximately three months of intensive vocational training, followed by industry-standard certification examinations. Beneficiaries also receive ongoing mentorship and business support after the formal training period.
The Skill-Up Artisans Programme represents a golden opportunity for Nigerian artisans to transform their careers. By providing free training, internationally recognised certification, and business support, the programme is positioning Nigerian artisans to compete globally and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth.
If you are a practising artisan looking to upgrade your skills, I encourage you to take full advantage of this initiative. Visit the official SUPA portal, complete your registration, and prepare for a journey that could change your life.
Remember, the programme is completely free. Do not pay anyone who claims they can facilitate your admission. Stay informed through official ITF channels and be ready to seize this opportunity when the next application window opens.
Apply now at: The Skill-Up Artisans Programme
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