News Editor
By David Odama
Plateau State government has said it is charting a new course for global collaboration in youth empowerment, skills acquisition, and technical innovation.
The state took the firm step when the executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, hosted the Italian Acting Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Iacopo Foti, at the Government House in Jos.
The high-level engagement discussion according to a statement by the Director of press and public Affairs, Dr Bere Gyang focused on exploring bilateral cooperation in technical and vocational education and underscored the crucial role of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), a federal institution headquartered in Jos, in driving skills development across Nigeria.
Governor Mutfwang expressed deep appreciation for the envoy’s visit and commended Italy’s longstanding contribution to vocational training and manufacturing excellence. He recalled the historical significance of the ITF, established in 1971 during the administration of General Yakubu Gowon, a distinguished son of Plateau.
“We are proud to host such a strategic national institution here in Jos,” the Governor stated. “Italy’s global leadership in vocational training and manufacturing presents a unique opportunity for collaboration, especially in equipping our youth with practical, life-preparing skills.”
Governor Mutfwang also highlighted the enduring ties between Plateau State and Italy, noting that many of the furnishings and even aspects of the Government House were products of Italian craftsmanship.
“Italy has always had a footprint here, from furniture to fashion, from pasta to football,” he remarked. “We believe there’s still so much more we can do together.”
He expressed Plateau State’s readiness to expand areas of cooperation to include cultural exchanges, business linkages, and enhanced technical education initiatives, reiterating the state’s openness to more robust engagements with the Italian government.
In his remarks, Mr. Iacopo Foti, the Acting Ambassador and Chargé d’affaires of Italy to Nigeria, described the visit as long overdue.
“We have always desired to visit Jos and interact with the ITF,” he said. “Though we had to postpone due to national events back home, we are glad to finally be here. Italy has a strong tradition in vocational training and manufacturing, and we’re eager to share our experience with Nigeria, especially its dynamic youth population.”
He described the ITF as a uniquely positioned federal agency with national reach and strong potential for international collaboration.
“Nigeria is a vast and diverse country. Understanding that diversity is critical to building meaningful partnerships, and this visit has certainly deepened our appreciation,” Foti added.
“Both parties agreed to sustain dialogue and work towards establishing formal frameworks for cooperation, particularly as the incoming Italian Ambassador is expected to arrive in Nigeria shortly.
“Plans are already underway for a technical session between officials of the Italian Embassy and the ITF to explore specific areas of joint action.
