The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji, has emphasized the need for training and International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) certification for Nigerian welders to enhance the workforce for socio-economic development.

Nnaji made this statement during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), academia, the private sector, and industry players for vocational skills certification in Abuja.

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ISO certification indicates that a management system, manufacturing process, service, or documentation procedure meets the requirements for standardization and quality assurance.

The minister announced that the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Welding Institute, plans to establish training hubs in the six geopolitical zones of the country to train welders and provide them with ISO certificates.

He expressed regret over the shortage of certified artisans and manpower in the country.

Nnaji assured that with ISO certification, Nigerian welders would be equipped to secure professional employment both within and outside the country.

He commended the collaboration between NACETEM, academia, and the private sector, stating that it is a significant milestone that will facilitate the hiring of skilled and technologically inclined Nigerians.

The Director General of NACETEM, Dr. Olushola Odusanya, highlighted that while Nigerian universities issue degree certificates, skills development and certification fall within the agency’s mandate.

The partnership with the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Commit Technology, and Nero Logistics is expected to strengthen postgraduate studies, vocational training, and ICT certification in Nigeria.

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Odusanya mentioned that NACETEM has initiated programs such as a Master’s Programme in Nanotechnology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Technology Management.

He disclosed ongoing efforts to establish a Master’s Degree in Digital Marketing and a linguistic project, all housed in FUTMinna.