The Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Investment, Senator John Enoh, has urged Mrs. Ngozi Oyewole and other newly inaugurated members of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Governing Council to elevate the Fund’s role in advancing Nigeria’s workforce development, in line with the Federal Government’s industrialisation drive.
The call was made in a statement released on Sunday in Abuja by Evelyn Onyilo, Personal Assistant to Mrs Oyewole.
According to the statement, Mrs. Oyewole is the Continental President of Commonwealth Business Women Africa and Chairperson of the Wood and Wood/Furniture Products Sectoral Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN). She is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute for Training and Development (NITAD) and will serve as MAN’s representative on the ITF Board.
Senator Enoh announced the inauguration of the 13-member Governing Council, chaired by Hamma Alikumo, describing it as a significant step in bridging Nigeria’s workforce skills gap and aligning talent development with the evolving demands of the industrial sector.
The Minister stressed the importance of adopting technology-driven training, enhancing collaboration between industry and academia, and ensuring efficient resource utilisation to accelerate progress.
In his remarks, the ITF Board Chairman, Hamma Alikumo, expressed gratitude to the Minister and pledged that the council would align its efforts with national development objectives. He noted that the new leadership would prioritise meaningful economic growth and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial resilience.
“The inauguration represents a bold step towards Nigeria’s industrial transformation, reaffirming the government’s commitment to economic diversification, sustainable development, and long-term prosperity,” the statement added.
It also highlighted Mrs. Oyewole’s extensive experience in economic and business development. Several professional groups and associations have congratulated her on the appointment, describing it as well deserved.
