Our attention has been drawn to recent allegations regarding the leadership of our Director General, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun. As concerned ITF staff, we feel it is essential to address these claims and provide clarity on the situation.
Commitment to Staff Welfare and Organizational Efficiency
Upon assuming office, Dr. Ogun emphasized his commitment to the happiness and well-being of ITF staff. He has consistently ensured timely payment of staff salaries and has prioritized creating a positive work environment. His philosophy is that a content workforce leads to greater organizational success.
Staff Redeployment
Regarding the allegation of “unprofessional redeployment of staff,” it is important to understand that each Director General brings a unique vision to the organization. Dr. Ogun’s redeployment decisions are strategic, aimed at optimizing efficiency and aligning with the ITF goals. Similar practices have occurred in the past under different leadership, demonstrating a standard approach to achieving organizational objectives.
Presence and Productivity
Critics have claimed that Dr. Ogun is frequently absent from the headquarters in Jos. However, his responsibilities often require him to be in Abuja and Lagos, where he engages with Critical Stakeholders and Government Agencies from time to time. His efforts have resulted in the recovery of significant Training Contributions owed to ITF, thereby enhancing the organization’s financial stability.
Fiscal Responsibility
Contrary to claims of extravagant spending, Dr. Ogun has demonstrated fiscal prudence by moving from a costly hotel to a rented house to save on expenses. Allegations of acquiring multiple properties are unfounded and lack evidence. Dr. Ogun’s background as a successful technocrat with extensive international experience underscores his commitment to responsible management.
Financial Management
There have been assertions about irregularities in financial management, specifically involving retired personnel signing cheques. This is incorrect. The current procedures in the ITF ensure proper financial oversight and accountability.
Achievements and Innovations
In his nine months in office, Dr. Ogun has revitalized one of ITF’s core mandates of Standardization and Certification of Vocational Training in Nigeria. This involve evaluating and certifying vocational skills acquired by apprentices, craftsmen, and technicians in collaboration with relevant organizations. This Mandate had been neglected by previous leaderships over the years. The introduction of the Skill-Up Artisan (SUPA) programme stands as a significant achievement towards this goal. Aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s administration goals, SUPA aims to train and certify artisans to meet international standards through partnerships with critical stakeholders (local and international, private and government at all levels). This initiative is poised to create approximately five million jobs annually. The programme’s transparent recruitment process and focus on quality training address longstanding inefficiencies of previous Federal Government’s Special Intervention Programmes.
Focus on Artisans and Vocational Training
Dr. Ogun’s emphasis on training artisans in key sectors of Nigeria economy, which include but not limited to construction, Agriculture and Agro-Allied, Automobile sectors among others, aims to reduce reliance on foreign labor and increase employment opportunities for Nigerians. In a groundbreaking move, ITF is developing an advanced digital platform to connect trained artisans with employment opportunities. This state-of-the-art app will leverage cutting-edge technology to ensure seamless matching of skilled workers with industry demands. Additionally, the recent request from Dubai for 1,400 construction sector artisans underscores the program’s global potential. This initiative will also rejuvenate vocational centers nationwide, providing opportunities for youths in previously underserved areas.
We advocate for direct engagement with management to address any issues or concerns and avoid the potential for undue sentiment in public discourse. We also hope that critics will appreciate the value of unity and collaboration in advancing ITF.
Call to Action
We encourage all ITF staff to support Dr. Ogun’s innovative and visionary leadership and contribute to the success and progress of ITF. Together, we can elevate ITF to new heights and achieve our collective goals.
Concerned ITF Staff
