FG considers technology to connect certified artisans, customers

Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has disclosed plans to introduce an “Uber for Artisans” app, a cutting-edge digital platform that would connect skilled, certified artisans with customers across the federation.

The innovative app is part of the National Artisan Skill Acquisition Programme (NASAP), and would make artisans more visible and accessible, improve service delivery and transparency, increase earning potential for skilled workers, and ensure customers have access to quality professionals.

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, made the disclosure when he received the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Adamson Ayinde, in Abuja.

He said the ‘Uber for Excel’ platform would be a game changer in the construction industry, noting that it would not only bridge a gap between supply and demand but also promote transparency and quality service delivery.

The minister commended the passion and proactive initiatives of the office of the Senior Special Assistant, which align with the Federal Government’s agenda, particularly in vocational training, skills acquisition and youth empowerment.

In a statement, Dangiwa restated that the ministry was driving the President’s vision of addressing the housing deficit in the country through renewed housing programmes, which aim to build seven cities, one in each geo-political zone of the country and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and 30 renewed hope estates across the country.

The minister said construction work was ongoing at 14 sites for 10,112 housing units, with significant portions to be commissioned within the next couple of months, providing jobs for over 252,000 Nigerians.

According to him, the construction sites are a source of employment for various skilled and unskilled labourers, noting that the quality of work by these artisans was crucial to delivering decent and quality housing to Nigerians.

He revealed that the ministry had conceived the NASAP to address the shortage of skilled artisans in the construction industry and provide sustainable livelihoods for young Nigerians.

The minister said the programme, to be launched within the year, aims to equip youths with construction-related skills such as plumbing, electrical works, masonry, and carpentry, among others.

Dangiwa pointed out that the ministry was in the process of completing and rehabilitating its vocational training centres in various locations, including Abuja, Lagos and Imo states.

On his part, Ayinde, commended the minister for his efforts in advancing the Renewed Hope Housing Development programme, the sustainable housing solutions, and efforts at addressing the shortage of skilled artisans.

He said his office was collaborating with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Department of Federal Public Assets Maintenance (FPAM) to propose a six-month training and certification programme for Nigerian artisans.