Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has announced the Ministry’s plan to develop an online platform for skilled workers.
This initiative aims to use technology to improve the visibility, accessibility, and efficiency of artisans in delivering their services.
Dangiwa disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Adamson Ayinde and his team at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
He explained that the digital platform, to be called “Uber for Artisans,” will serve as an online marketplace where trained and certified artisans can connect with potential customers.
He emphasized that the platform would enhance artisans’ earning potential while ensuring customers have access to skilled professionals for their construction needs.
“I believe that the Uber for Artisans platform will be a game changer in the construction industry, as it will not only bridge the gap between supply and demand but also promote transparency and quality service delivery,” he stated.
The Minister commended the SSA’s office for its passion and proactive initiatives, aligning with the Federal Government’s agenda, particularly in vocational training, skills acquisition, and youth empowerment.
Dangiwa reiterated that the Ministry is working towards reducing Nigeria’s housing deficit through renewed housing programs, which include building seven new cities—one in each geo-political zone and the FCT—as well as 30 Renewed Hope Estates nationwide.
He further revealed that construction work was ongoing at 14 sites for 10,112 housing units, with significant portions expected to be commissioned soon, creating employment for over 252,000 Nigerians.
Highlighting the importance of skilled artisans, the Minister noted that construction sites provide jobs for both skilled and unskilled laborers, and the quality of their work is crucial to delivering decent housing.
He said, “To address the shortage of skilled workers, the Ministry has launched the National Artisan Skill Acquisition Program (NASA), aimed at equipping young Nigerians with essential construction skills, including plumbing, electrical work, masonry, and carpentry.
“These skills are not only essential for the construction sector but also contribute to the overall economic development of our nation,” he added.
The Minister also stated that the program will collaborate with relevant government agencies, institutions, and the private sector to train and certify artisans. The Ministry is currently completing vocational training centers in Abuja, Lagos, and Imo States.
Expressing appreciation for the SSA and his team’s visit to some of these centers, Dangiwa noted plans to rehabilitate and upgrade these institutions within the next few months.
According to him, “These centers will serve as hubs for hands-on training and capacity building. To facilitate this, a committee will be set up within three months to design the training format and engage with key stakeholders in the building industry.”
Dangiwa assured the SSA’s team of the Ministry’s full support in achieving their shared goals.
While speaking, Hon. Adamson Ayinde commended the Minister for advancing the Renewed Hope Housing Development Program and acknowledged the challenges posed by a shortage of skilled artisans.
To address this, he revealed that his office is collaborating with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Federal Public Assets Maintenance (FPAM) department to propose a six-month training and certification program for Nigerian artisans.
“This initiative aims to strengthen the local workforce, improve construction quality, and enhance the global competitiveness of Nigerian artisans.”
Ayinde further informed the Minister that a formal proposal outlining the implementation framework, training curriculum, and expected outcomes would be submitted soon.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to providing affordable housing in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are actively carrying out multiple housing development projects nationwide, and our efforts are yielding positive results,” Belgore stated.
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