The Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, has revealed that the Fund has placed Nigeria on the global skills map by establishing the WorldSkills Academy in Abuja and becoming the 83rd member of WorldSkills International.
Dr Ogun disclosed this at the 55th anniversary of the Fund and his third anniversary as Director-General on Thursday at its corporate headquarters in Jos, Plateau State.
Dr Ogun explained that the achievements recorded so far reflected the breadth of the ITF’s ambitions as it entered its next phase as an organisation, adding that the overall goal was to position the Fund as the leading learning and development agency on which Nigeria could rely to facilitate the development of the national economy.
He stated that the initiatives, combined with the development of talent export pathways for skilled Nigerians, were providing opportunities for artisans and technical professionals to compete successfully in the global labour market while also contributing to national economic growth.
“I want an ITF that adds value by assisting Nigeria in becoming a leader in the international community. I’d also like to see an ITF that competes favourably with other learning and development agencies worldwide.
“I would also like to see ITF grow not only into a household name where every young Nigerian would see it as a pride of place to belong to in terms of actualising their career prospects, but also as an organisation that will lubricate the country’s industrial hub by ensuring that industries in the country operate optimally.”
Dr Ogun charged the Fund’s workforce to be more proactive, effective, creative and resilient, as well as to work more intensely to achieve its vision.
He commended the vision of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating policies and programmes that had so far facilitated the growth of the ITF and the country in general.
The Director-General therefore appealed for the unwavering support and commitment of all stakeholders at the Fund as they march forward with determination and tenacity of purpose towards the celebration of the ITF’s Diamond Jubilee.
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