Housing Ministry, Polaris Capital, Sign MoU On Artisans Skills Acquisition
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.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Permanent Secretary Dr. Shuaib Belgore, informed that the Ministry, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is set to embark on the transformative initiative to bridge the nation's artisan skills gap and modernize the construction workforce.
“Today's signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Polaris Capital Limited marks a milestone in the launch of the National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP)”, he remarked.
He outlined some of the objectives of the programme to include strengthening the technical capacity in the housing and construction sector, creating sustainable employment pathways for Nigerian youth and artisans.
Other objectives according to the Permanent Secretary include promoting inclusivity by ensuring participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities; as well as leveraging technology through a national booking and verification system for artisans.
He explained that the initiative is structured around a three-year programme with funding from federal budget allocations, private sector participation, and donor contributions, adding that the digital platform would generate revenue to ensure sustainability of the programme beyond the MoU period.
Dr. Belgore further expressed joy in the partnership which is aimed at delivering affordable housing for Nigerians across the country.
On their part, the CEO of the Polaris Capital Limited, Kelvin Vihishima, described the signing of the MoU as a positive initiative aimed at reducing the skills gap in the Nigerian economy.
He noted that skills is the bedrock and corner stone of every economy, saying that the initiative would reduce unemployment and make skills available at the national level.
He informed that the scope of the MoU is to train, certify and onboard the artisans, reducing quackery, and reforming the housing industry.
Vihishima further appreciated the Ministry for taking the noble initiative and appreciating the expertise of its delivery.
In his introductory remarks, the Director, Federal Public Asset Maintenance (FPAM) Department, Arc. Ibechile Egwudale said that the signing of the MoU underscores the Ministry's commitment to skills development, job creation, and sustainable urban growth, anchored on accountability, inclusivity and long-term economic impact.
Highlight of the event was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding by the Permanent Secretary on behalf of the Ministry, and Polaris Capital Limited.
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