The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has expressed deep concern over the alarming trend of foreigners occupying job vacancies in Nigeria, citing a severe shortage of technical skills among Nigerians as the primary reason. According to ITF Director General/Chief Executive, Sir Joseph Ari, this deficiency poses a significant threat to the country’s industrial growth and key government policies.
Ari made this statement during the launch of the 2017 National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP) in Enugu, where 500 youths are receiving training in various technical fields. He emphasized that the NISDP was designed to address the capacity gap in the Nigerian labor market, which has been a major hindrance to the country’s economic development.
The ITF boss noted that despite the large numbers of Nigerians without jobs, foreigners are taking up vacant positions due to their possession of the requisite technical skills needed to drive industrial growth. He stressed that this trend is unacceptable and requires urgent attention from all stakeholders.
Since its inception, the NISDP has trained 84,100 Nigerians in over 30 trades and crafts, with most beneficiaries securing gainful employment or becoming successful entrepreneurs. The program aims to bridge the skills gap and empower Nigerians to take up job opportunities, reducing reliance on foreign workers.
Ari called on the government, private sector, and other stakeholders to support the ITF’s efforts in developing the technical skills of Nigerians, ensuring that they are equipped to compete favorably in the job market. He emphasized that the country’s economic growth and development depend on its ability to develop a skilled workforce.
