The Federal Government has partnered with Polaris Capital Limited to train, certify, and place 100,000 construction artisans across Nigeria.
Formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding on September 2, 2025, the initiative aims to address skills gaps in the housing and construction sector, according to a statement on the ministry’s website.
The Permanent Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Ministry, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, said the programme seeks to modernize Nigeria’s construction workforce, enhance technical capacity, create sustainable jobs for young people and artisans, and promote inclusivity by involving women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
“The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and Polaris Capital Limited has today September 2nd, 2025, formalized a strategic partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to kick-start the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP).
“NASAP is a nationwide intervention programme designed to train, certify, and digitally connect 100,000 artisans in priority construction trades to job opportunities across Nigeria,” the statement read in part.
The three-year programme will be financed through federal budget allocations, private sector investment, and donor contributions. It features a digital booking and verification platform that connects artisans directly with job opportunities while generating revenue to sustain the initiative beyond the MoU period.
The CEO of Polaris Capital Limited, Kelvin Vihishima, described the partnership as a key step in reducing unemployment and transforming the housing sector.
He emphasized that training and certification would help curb quackery in construction and ensure a nationwide supply of skilled workers.
The statement highlighted that the agreement reflects the Ministry’s commitment to skills development, job creation, and sustainable urban growth, with a focus on accountability and long-term economic impact.
The MoU was officially endorsed during the signing ceremony by Dr. Belgore for the Ministry and Mr. Vihishima for Polaris Capital Limited.
