By Jonathan Lois

Lawmakers Hon. Okey -Joe Onuakalusi, representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 2 in the National Assembly and technical experts have raised concerns about the underutilization of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) facilities across Nigeria.

They are calling for increased awareness, commercialization, and expansion of ITF centers to other regions of the country.

During a visit on Friday to an ITF training center, a Hon. Onuakalusi, expressed surprise at the range of modern facilities available, noting that many Nigerians mistakenly perceive ITF as a bureaucratic institution where contractors merely collect forms.

He emphasized the need for ITF to actively promote its capabilities through social media, radio, and television to attract more trainees.

“You can take a few minutes on NTA or radio stations. In fact, to make it simpler, go to radio stations and talk about ITF and what you offer.

“All you need to do is have various departmental heads speak about ITF, their expertise, and the available facilities. That will go a long way,” he said.

He encouraged ITF to formally invite the committee chairman in the National Assembly for an official practical visit rather than just an administrative one, as this would help showcase the work being done at ITF centers.

The ITF training centers, including the one visited in Abuja, offer extensive hands-on training in various technical fields such as electrical and electronics technology, solar installations, facility management, and industrial design.

According to Fadi Gidadadelo, Head of the Electrical and Electronics Technology Department, ITF programs are categorized into two: skills for self-reliance and skills for employability.

While the former equips individuals to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs, the latter enhances their chances of securing employment.

One of the key programs highlighted was ITF’s focus on solar energy solutions. Gidadadelo demonstrated a solar-powered water pumping system that utilizes direct current (DC) from solar panels without requiring costly converters.

This technology is seen as a cost-effective solution in a country where energy costs remain high.

He further explained that ITF runs educational programs as part of its corporate social responsibility.

“Other programs include the NISDP and the modular training, where trainees participate for one, two, or a maximum of three months,” he said.

Despite these advancements, ITF faces challenges, including limited public awareness and a lack of expansion to key regions.

The lawmaker representing Akwa Ibom Ekwt/Onna/Esit Eket/Ibeno, Hon. Etteh Okpolupm Ikpong, noted that many Nigerians are unaware of ITF’s potential.

He called for the establishment of more ITF centers in the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions to make training more accessible.

“If I wasn’t here today, I wouldn’t know what is available. We need ITF to collaborate with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to educate people about its programs,” he said.

Additionally, ITF is working on international partnerships, including collaborations with Turkey, to upgrade the skills of local artisans to meet global standards.

The head of corporate management at ITF emphasized the need for more funding to train and certify artisans for international job markets.

Another major training focus is plumbing and fabrication, which experts say is a critical yet often overlooked trade.

The ITF facility includes a rigorous pressure testing system for plumbing pipes, ensuring high-quality installations and reducing common leakage problems in Nigerian homes.

With the presidential mandate on employment creation, ITF has intensified efforts to train, certify, and export skilled artisans to compete globally. Last year alone, ITF trained 29,000 individuals in various trades.