The Nigerian government is taking a major step toward revolutionizing the construction industry with a new digital platform designed to connect skilled artisans with job opportunities. Dubbed “Uber for Artisans,” this app aims to serve as an online marketplace that makes certified professionals more visible, accessible, and efficient in delivering their services.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, is part of the broader National Artisan Skill Acquisition Programme (NASAP)—a government-backed plan to bridge the skills gap in the construction sector, create employment, and ensure quality service delivery.
The Vision Behind ‘Uber for Artisans’
For years, Nigeria’s construction industry has struggled with a shortage of trained artisans in key trades such as plumbing, electrical work, masonry, and carpentry. This has led to poor service delivery, lack of trust, and inefficiencies in hiring skilled workers.
The ‘Uber for Artisans’ app is set to change that by:
- Connecting skilled artisans directly with customers
- Providing verified professionals for construction needs
- Increasing earnings for skilled workers
- Improving transparency and accountability in the industry
According to Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, this platform will be a game changer for the construction industry, ensuring a seamless link between demand and supply of skilled labor.
How Will This Benefit Artisans and Consumers?
The impact of this initiative extends beyond just digitizing job opportunities—it is expected to empower thousands of artisans, enhance service quality, and stimulate economic growth.
For Artisans:
- Direct access to a steady stream of job opportunities
- Verified profiles, ensuring credibility and trust
- Increased income potential
- Easier skill certification and training opportunities
For Customers & Contractors:
- Convenient hiring process with skilled and certified workers
- Improved service quality in construction projects
- Transparent pricing and service tracking
- Reduced cases of fraud and poor workmanship
A Major Push for Skill Development in Nigeria
The National Artisan Skill Acquisition Programme (NASAP) is at the heart of this transformation. The government plans to train and certify thousands of artisans through vocational training centres in Abuja, Lagos, and Imo states. These training centers, some of which are currently being rehabilitated and modernized, will equip artisans with practical skills to meet industry standards.
Furthermore, the initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in areas of:
- Vocational training
- Youth empowerment
- Job creation
- Housing development
Housing Development and Job Creation: A Double Impact
Beyond improving access to skilled labor, the government is tackling Nigeria’s housing deficit by constructing 10,112 housing units across 14 sites. This massive project will provide over 252,000 jobs for both skilled and unskilled workers.
According to Minister Dangiwa, the quality of work done by artisans will be key to ensuring durable and affordable housing for Nigerians. The Uber for Artisans app will help maintain quality standards by connecting contractors with verified professionals.
A Collaborative Effort for Success
This initiative is not just a government project—it is a collaborative effort between multiple stakeholders, including:
The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN)
The Department of Federal Public Assets Maintenance (FPAM)
Private sector partners and industry experts
Together, they plan to roll out a six-month training and certification program to ensure artisans meet national and global standards.
The Future of Skilled Work in Nigeria
With the rise of digital marketplaces like Bolt, Uber, and Jumia, the ‘Uber for Artisans’ initiative is a much-needed disruption in Nigeria’s labor market. If successfully implemented, it could transform how skilled workers find jobs, improve the construction industry, and create new economic opportunities for thousands of Nigerians.
