The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has officially commenced the nationwide screening exercise for shortlisted candidates under the 2026 Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA).
The screening exercise is the next stage of the selection process for applicants who were shortlisted for the Federal Government’s flagship vocational training programme aimed at developing highly skilled artisans capable of competing both locally and internationally.
According to the ITF, the exercise is designed to verify the eligibility and practical experience of shortlisted applicants before they are admitted into the 2026 training programme.
If you applied for the programme, this article explains everything you need to know, including the screening schedule, required documents, benefits, participating trades, and how to check whether your name is on the shortlist.
About the ITF Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme
The Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme is an initiative of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) established to equip Nigerians with industry-relevant vocational and technical skills.
The programme supports the Federal Government’s human capital development agenda by producing a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting local and international industry standards.
Participants receive practical, competency-based training in high-demand vocational trades, entrepreneurship development, and workplace readiness.
Nationwide Screening Exercise
The Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund, Dr. Afiz Ogun, explained that the screening exercise is intended to confirm the eligibility of shortlisted applicants and assess their practical experience before admission into the training programme.
To ensure easy access for applicants nationwide, the screening will be conducted simultaneously across the country’s six geopolitical zones.
The exercise will take place in the three senatorial districts of every state, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Screening Schedule
The screening exercise will be conducted in two phases.
Northern Zone
Applicants from the following geopolitical zones will be screened first:
- North Central
- North West
- North East
Screening Dates: Tuesday, 14th July – Friday, 17th July, 2026
Southern Zone
Applicants from the following geopolitical zones will be screened during the second phase:
- South East
- South West
- South South
Screening Dates: Tuesday, 21st July – Friday, 24th July, 2026
Applicants are expected to report to their designated screening centres on the dates assigned to their geopolitical zone.
Required Documents for Screening
Before attending the screening exercise, shortlisted candidates should ensure they have all the required documents ready for verification.
Applicants are expected to present:
- Two (2) recent passport photographs.
- Original copy of a valid means of identification.
- Photocopy of the same identification document.
Accepted means of identification include:
- National Identification Number (NIN) Slip.
- Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC).
- Driver’s Licence.
- Any other government-approved means of identification.
Candidates should ensure that all documents are clear, valid, and readily available before arriving at the screening venue.
Benefits of the ITF SUPA Programme
The Skill-Up Artisans Programme goes beyond vocational training by providing participants with practical skills, entrepreneurship support, and career development opportunities.
Successful beneficiaries may enjoy the following benefits:
- Fully funded vocational and technical skills training.
- Practical hands-on training delivered by experienced instructors.
- Industry-focused competency development.
- Exposure to internationally relevant technical standards.
- Free equipment, uniforms, and starter packs in selected trades.
- ITF Certificate upon successful completion of training.
- Entrepreneurship and business development support.
- Business incubation opportunities for outstanding participants.
- Improved employability through industry-relevant skills.
- Opportunity to become self-employed after training.
- Access to future employment opportunities.
- Career development and networking opportunities.
- Contribution to Nigeria’s skilled workforce development.
Trades Covered Under the Programme
The ITF Skill-Up Artisans Programme offers training in several high-demand vocational fields designed to improve employability and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Construction Trades
Participants can receive training in:
- Welding and Fabrication
- Scaffolding
- Tiling
- Bricklaying
- Painting and Decoration
- Carpentry
- Mechanical Trades
Available options include:
- Auto Mechanic
- Plumbing and Pipefitting
- Electrical Trades
Applicants can choose from:
- Electrical Installation
- Electrical and Electronics
- Digital Skills
Technology-related training includes:
- Cyber Security
- ICT and Digital Skills
- Creative and Service Trades
Other available trades include:
- Fashion Design
- Housekeeping
- Waiter Services
These vocational areas have been carefully selected to align with Nigeria’s workforce needs and emerging global employment opportunities.
How to Check the ITF SUPA 2026 Shortlist
If you applied for the programme, follow the steps below to confirm whether you have been shortlisted.
Step 1: Visit the ITF SUPA 2026 official beneficiary portal.
Step 2: Select the 2026 application year if more than one application year appears.
Step 3: Choose the state where you submitted your application.
Step 4: Locate and open the SUPA Nominees section.
Step 5: Click Preview List under your category.
Step 6: Download or open the PDF containing the names of shortlisted applicants.
Step 7: Use your device’s search function:
- Windows: CTRL + F
- Mac: Command + F
Search using your:
- Full name
- Application number
- Registered phone number
Alternative Method to Check the Shortlist
Applicants can also:
- Select their state directly from the portal.
- Download the state’s shortlist PDF.
- Search the downloaded document for their name or application details.
States Covered
The shortlist includes applicants from:
- All 36 states of Nigeria
- The Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
This ensures equal participation for eligible applicants nationwide.
Important Notice for ITF SUPA Shortlisted Candidates
If your name appears on the shortlist:
- Download and save a copy of the shortlist.
- Prepare all required screening documents.
- Attend the screening at your designated centre and date.
- Regularly visit the official SUPA portal for updates regarding training schedules, documentation, and venue information.
- Failure to attend the screening may affect your eligibility for the next stage of the programme.
The commencement of the ITF Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme 2026 screening exercise marks another important milestone in the Federal Government’s efforts to equip Nigerians with practical vocational skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
Shortlisted applicants are advised to confirm their names on the official portal, prepare all required documents, and attend the screening according to their assigned schedule.
You can also visit Dailylight Channel Graduate Jobs Section, Internship Program, Recruitment Exercises, and Job and Career Opportunity Desk Section to explore and discover opportunities you are qualified to apply for.
