The Nigerian government has unveiled plans to develop a digital platform designed to connect trained artisans with job opportunities in the construction industry.
Dubbed “Uber for Artisans,” the platform will function as an online marketplace, making skilled workers more visible, accessible, and efficient in delivering their services.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, disclosed the initiative during a meeting with the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Hon. Adamson Ayinde, and his team at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to a statement on the ministry’s website, the platform aims to boost artisans’ earning potential while ensuring individuals and contractors have easy access to verified professionals for their construction needs.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has also initiated the National Artisan Skill Acquisition Programme (NASA) to address the shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry and create sustainable employment for young Nigerians.
Set to launch later this year, the programme will equip participants with essential construction-related skills such as Plumbing, Electrical work, Masonry and Carpentry
The government will collaborate with agencies, institutions, and private sector players to provide training and certification for artisans.
To support this initiative, the Ministry is working to complete and operationalize vocational training centers in Abuja, Lagos, and Imo States. These centers, included in the 2025 budget proposal, will serve as hubs for hands-on training and capacity building.
Additionally, some existing institutions will be rehabilitated in the coming months to expand training opportunities. The government plans to establish a committee within three months to develop a comprehensive training framework and engage key stakeholders in the construction industry.
