- The Federal Government and Polaris Capital Limited has launch the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP)
- The programm 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
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The Federal Government and Polaris Capital Limited have reached a strategic partnership agreement to train certify, and connect 100,000 construction artisans to employment opportunities nationwide.
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 Artisians
According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the three-year programme will be financed through federal allocations, private sector investments, and donor contributions.
A dedicated digital platform called CraftHub connects will also be deployed to book, verify, and connect artisans directly with employers, ensuring accountability and revenue 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 with the new programme
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary said that that NASAP demonstrates the government’s commitment to workforce modernization 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.

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, 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