By Dapo Rotimi
The Federal government has inaugurated the Sector Skills Council for fashion, leather work and accessory to drive its sectoral approach to skills acquisition for national development.
The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, Professor Idris Bugaje who expressed worry that a large percentage of textiles in the country were imported, said the essence of the council was to revive the industry and make it viable.
He also said it was important to equip young Nigerians with life long skills for self reliance and global competitiveness.
Professor Bugaje urged the thirty-member Council to bring their experiences to bear on the task ahead by assisting government achieve its renewed hope agenda to prioritize Technical, Vocational Education and Training, TVET as well as revamp the textile industry in the country.
”If this sector can organise and ensure proper certification of artisans, apprentices, I think this sector can be the money spinner for Nigeria. We are very hopeful with the caliber of people assembled as members, we shall turn the fortunes of this sector around” he said
Earlier, the Chairperson of the Council, Mrs. Funmi Ladipo called for synergy among members and pledged to work assiduously to achieve the desired goal.
Also at the event, the wife of the Zamfara State Governor, Hajiya Hurayya Lawal was conferred with the National Patron of the Council for her commitment and contribution in empowering young girls in the state with various skills.
Similarly, the Dangote Academy was given a certificate of recognition for their support in the skills sub sector.
