Abia Seeks Revamped ITF Curriculum to Address Skilled Labor Shortage

The Abia State Government has called for a modernized curriculum from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to better equip Nigerians with the skills needed in today’s job market.

Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Chief of Staff to Governor Alex Otti, met with ITF management at the Government House in Umuahia. During the discussions, Pastor Ajagba emphasized the urgency of aligning the ITF’s programs with Governor Otti’s vision of revitalizing Aba as Abia’s industrial hub.

The Chief of Staff stressed the importance of effective skills acquisition programs in industry and commerce. He highlighted the need to cultivate a pool of well-trained local talent to satisfy the demands of both private and public sector enterprises. Pastor Ajagba reaffirmed the Abia State Government’s commitment to partnering with the ITF in achieving these goals.

In separate remarks, both the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Godson Anucha, reiterated the current administration’s dedication to capacity building initiatives. They commended the timeliness of the meeting.

The Area Manager for the ITF’s Aba Area Office, Mr. Nwigboji Nwafagu, presented the ITF’s role as a leading skills training organization in Nigeria. He emphasized their focus on establishing and regulating training standards, and delivering human capital development interventions through a team of highly qualified professionals. Mr. Nwafagu expressed his appreciation for Governor Otti’s efforts, particularly regarding infrastructure development. He also sought the government’s collaboration to ensure the ITF’s successful execution of its programs within the state.

The meeting concluded with the handover of ITF training brochures to the Chief of Staff, symbolizing the ongoing partnership between the Abia State Government and the Industrial Training Fund.