The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Polaris Capital Limited to train 100,000 artisans in Nigeria through the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme.
The agreement, formalised under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President, is aimed at addressing the country’s artisan skills gap and modernising the construction workforce.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, said the initiative is a major step towards transforming the housing and construction sector. He explained that NASAP is designed to train, certify, and digitally connect artisans in priority construction trades to job opportunities across Nigeria.
“Today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with Polaris Capital Limited marks a significant milestone in the launch of the National Programme. The objectives include strengthening the technical capacity in the housing and construction sector, creating sustainable employment pathways for Nigerian youth and artisans,” Belgore stated.
He further noted that the programme aims to promote inclusivity by ensuring the participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, while also leveraging technology through a national booking and verification system for artisans.
According to him, the initiative will run as a three-year programme with funding drawn from federal budget allocations, private sector involvement, and donor contributions.
Dr. Belgore added that a digital platform would be used to generate revenue to sustain the programme beyond the MoU period. He expressed optimism about the partnership, stressing that it will support affordable housing delivery across the country.
Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Capital Limited, Kelvin Vihishima, described the signing of the MoU as a timely and impactful step. He said, “Skills are the bedrock and cornerstone of every economy. This initiative would reduce unemployment and make skills available at the national level.”
Vihishima highlighted that the programme’s scope includes training, certifying, and onboarding artisans, reducing quackery, and reforming the housing industry.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of the Federal Public Asset Maintenance Department, Arc. Ibechile Egwudale, said the agreement reflects the ministry’s commitment to skills development, job creation, and sustainable urban growth.
He emphasised that the programme is grounded in accountability, inclusivity, and long-term economic impact, noting its relevance in shaping Nigeria’s housing and construction future.