FG To Train 100,000 Construction Workers, Links Job Opportunities Nationwide For Artisans

FG To Train 100,000 Construction Workers, Links Job Opportunities Nationwide For Artisans

  • The Federal Government and Polaris Capital Limited have launched the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP)
  • The programme will train, certify, and connect 100,000 construction artisans nationwide to job opportunities
  • NASAP will run for three years, using federal funding, private investments, and a digital platform to link artisans with employers

Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of experience in business journalism, with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends.

The Federal Government and Polaris Capital Limited have entered a strategic partnership to train, certify, and connect 100,000 construction artisans with employment opportunities nationwide.

Government to train, help secure jobs for construction workers
FG wants to help connect construction workers with job opportunities Photo; Thomas Imo
Source: Getty Images

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on September 2, 2025, officially launched the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP), an initiative to tackle Nigeria’s construction skills gap, modernize housing, and generate sustainable jobs.

New opportunities for artisans

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development said the three-year programme will draw funding from federal allocations, private sector investments, and donor support.

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It added that a digital platform, CraftHub Connects, will be launched to book, verify, and link artisans with employers, ensuring accountability and financial sustainability.

A statement on CraftHub reads:

"CraftHub connects you with skilled, certified professionals ready to bring quality craftsmanship to your projects. Our platform brings together Nigeria’s top artisans, all trained and certified through the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP), ensuring you receive the highest standard of workmanship for your construction and renovation needs."

FG excited about the new programme

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary said that NASAP demonstrates the government’s commitment to workforce modernisation and inclusivity.

He said:

“The programme will train, certify, and digitally link artisans in high-demand trades to nationwide job opportunities, while boosting technical capacity, creating sustainable jobs, and promoting inclusivity for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.”

Polaris Capital Limited’s Chief Executive Officer said the partnership is crucial for reforming Nigeria’s housing sector and reducing unemployment, stressing that structured training and certification will curb quackery, improve housing delivery, and expand skilled manpower nationwide.

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Federal government was to create job opportunities for artisans in Nigeria
FG to connect artisans to job opportunities nationwide Photo: Benson Ibeabuchi
Source: Getty Images

How will NASAP work?

NASAP will roll out in three phases, starting with a 2025 pilot to train 3,000 artisans across three states.

The programme will cover ten priority trades, including bricklaying, plumbing, electrical works, carpentry, painting, welding, tiling, Plaster of Paris (POP) and screeding, upholstery, and air conditioning/refrigeration.

Its goal is to professionalize artisanship, raise construction standards, and equip young people and low-income earners with market-ready technical skills.

For Nigerians interested in applying, use this link to find out more.

FG shares 6 steps to apply for free skill training

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has announced the registration for the second phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI).

The initiative is aimed at reducing unemployment through vocational and digital skills tailored to Nigeria's needs.

The programme is free, fully funded, offering stipends and start-up support for selected trades in high-demand sectors.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Dave Ibemere avatar

Dave Ibemere (Senior Business Editor) Dave Ibemere is a senior business editor at Legit.ng. He is a financial journalist with over a decade of experience in print and online media. He also holds a Master's degree from the University of Lagos. He is a member of the African Academy for Open-Source Investigation (AAOSI), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and other media think tank groups. He previously worked with The Guardian, BusinessDay, and headed the business desk at Ripples Nigeria. Email: dave.ibemere@corp.legit.ng.