The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Steel Development, has launched a comprehensive Boot-Camp Training Programme aimed at equipping Nigerian youths with essential skills in welding, fabrication, and industrial metallurgy.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of the first batch at the Metallurgical Training Institute (MTI), Onitsha, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasised that the initiative is a strategic step towards developing a skilled workforce to drive industrial growth and sustainable development in Nigeria’s metallurgical and steel sector.
“The Ministry, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, Prince Shaiubu Abubakar Audu, has taken deliberate steps to reposition the steel and metals industry as a cornerstone of the nation’s economic transformation,” Dr. Isokpunwu stated.
He further explained that the boot camp is designed to provide participants with hands-on skills, technical expertise, and industry insights that will enhance their employability and entrepreneurial potential.
Bridging Skill Gaps in the Steel Sector
Over the next few weeks, trainees will undergo rigorous training in:
Welding and Fabrication Industrial Foundry and Metallurgy Instrumentation, System Control, and Mechanical Maintenance
Dr. Isokpunwu underscored the importance of discipline, resilience, and teamwork, urging participants to adhere to all regulations.
“This boot camp is not just about learning; it is about discipline, resilience, and teamwork. The Ministry has made provisions for accommodation, feeding, and starter packs for all trainees. However, any form of misconduct—including indiscipline, violation of safety regulations, or engagement in prohibited activities such as drug use or possession of weapons—will result in immediate disqualification and forfeiture of benefits,” he warned.
He encouraged participants to embrace the opportunity and position themselves as future leaders in the steel and metallurgical sector.
“I urge you to embrace this training with enthusiasm, remain focused, and take full advantage of the knowledge and experience that will be shared with you,” he added.
Senate Committee Commends Initiative
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Steel, Sen. Patrick Ndubueze, commended the Ministry for spearheading the initiative, noting that it will empower Nigerian youths with critical skills for self-reliance.
Represented by Hon. Greg Owurmanam, Sen. Ndubueze lauded the Ministry of Steel Development and other stakeholders for their role in making the programme a reality.
“This initiative is geared towards empowering the nation’s teeming youths to be self-reliant by acquiring extensive skills training in Welding and Fabrication, Industrial Foundry/Metallurgy, Instrumentation/Control System, and Mechanic Maintenance,” he stated.
He urged participants to fully engage in the training and work closely with their instructors to acquire the knowledge and skills needed for the programme.
A Strategic Step for Nigeria’s Industrial Future
Providing an overview of the programme, Engr. Frederick E. Ewa, Director of Metallurgical Inspectorate, described the Boot-Camp Training as a strategic initiative to bridge Nigeria’s manpower gap in the steel sector.
“The Bootcamp Training Programme is an intensive, hands-on technical training aimed at equipping participants with critical skills in three specialised areas: Welding and Fabrication, Industrial Foundry and Metallurgy, Instrumentation, System Control, and Mechanical Maintenance,” Engr. Ewa stated.
He stressed the importance of practical sessions, industry best practices, and strict adherence to safety protocols, urging participants to be fully engaged and disciplined throughout the programme.
Similarly, Engr. Fortunate Uche Obi, Director/Ag. Chief Executive of MTI, Onitsha, emphasised that the initiative is not just about training but about building the next generation of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to drive Nigeria’s steel and manufacturing industries.
“For decades, the MTI has been at the forefront of technical and vocational education in Nigeria, producing skilled professionals who have made remarkable contributions to the steel industry. The choice of Onitsha for this Boot-Camp was deliberate, as it remains a hub for metallurgical training and skill development,” he noted.
With this strategic intervention, the Federal Government is not only investing in youth empowerment but also laying the foundation for a stronger and more competitive steel industry in Nigeria.
