The Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund, is committing ₦10 billion for skills development initiatives in 2026, as Nigeria intensifies efforts to transform economic reforms into tangible results through sustained local content development.
Chairman of TETFund and former Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari while chairing the seminar of the 47th Kaduna International Trade Fair on Wednesday, emphasized that the intervention represents a strategic complement to the Federal Government’s broader economic reforms aimed at empowering local enterprises and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports.
The trade fair’s theme, “From Reforms to Results: Economic Transformation Through Sustained Local Content Development,” resonated strongly with stakeholders who gathered to chart a practical pathway toward industrial self-reliance.
“Nigeria is at a critical stage in her economic journey,” Masari stated. “The present administration has embarked on far-reaching reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy, strengthening institutions, improving productivity, and laying the foundation for sustainable growth.”
The TETFund chairman stressed that local content development has become central to the government’s strategy for job creation, industrial growth, value addition, and reduced import dependency. “By empowering local enterprises, supporting indigenous innovation, and strengthening access to finance, skills, and infrastructure, we can translate reforms into tangible results that positively impact our people and communities,” he said.
In his welcome address, Alhaji Farouk Suleiman, President of the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, KADCCIMA, described local content development as “no longer optional” but rather “a strategic imperative.”
Also Read: Digital revolution and transparency drive at TETFund
“By supporting local industries, promoting indigenous capacity, and encouraging value addition within our borders, we can build a resilient economy that works for our people and competes globally,” Suleiman declared.
He commended the Chamber’s sustained commitment to organizing the Kaduna International Trade Fair despite prevailing economic and global challenges, positioning Kaduna as a leading hub for commerce, investment, and enterprise.
The seminar enjoyed the patronage of Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, whose administration has been recognized for its commitment to economic growth and industrialization. The governor was represented at the event, underscoring the state government’s alignment with the local content agenda.
Masari praised the Kaduna Chamber’s leadership for their “consistency, resilience, and commitment to economic development,” noting that such efforts deserve continued support and encouragement from all stakeholders.
The seminar featured Professor Seth Akutson, former Director of the Centre for Enterprises Development at Kaduna State University and former Vice-Chancellor of Greenfield University Kaduna, as guest speaker. His expertise in entrepreneurship and enterprise development provided participants with practical insights on translating local content policies into measurable outcomes.
Suleiman challenged seminar participants to move beyond theoretical discussions. “This platform provides an opportunity for serious reflection, honest dialogue, and constructive engagement on issues that affect our economy, our businesses, and our collective prosperity,” he said.
“It is here that policy meets practice, and ideas are transformed into actionable solutions,” Farsman added, urging participants to contribute practical recommendations capable of shaping policies and strategies for sustainable economic growth.
Masari acknowledged that while economic reforms can be “difficult and demanding,” they represent necessary steps toward achieving long-term economic resilience and shared prosperity for all Nigerians.
The TETFund’s ₦10 billion skills development intervention is expected to significantly enhance the capacity of Nigerian workers and entrepreneurs to drive indigenous innovation, improve productivity in local industries, and ultimately reduce the nation’s reliance on imported goods and services.
As Nigeria continues its economic transformation journey, stakeholders at the Kaduna International Trade Fair have demonstrated a unified commitment to ensuring that policy reforms deliver concrete benefits—more jobs created, industries strengthened, investments attracted, and livelihoods improved through deliberate local content development.
The 47th Kaduna International Trade Fair continues with exhibitions and commercial activities showcasing the best of Nigerian enterprise and innovation.
Crediblenewsng.com
