The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has announced that the Federal Government will develop an online platform to connect skilled workers and artisans with potential clients.
Dangiwa disclosed this in a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Salisu Haiba, on Wednesday in Abuja. The announcement followed a courtesy visit from the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Adamson Ayinde, and his team.
The minister explained that the digital platform, to be known as Uber for Artisans, aims to leverage technology to enhance the visibility, accessibility, and efficiency of artisans in delivering their services. He added that it would serve as an online marketplace where trained and certified artisans can easily connect with customers.
“The Uber for Artisans platform will significantly enhance the earning potential of skilled workers while providing customers with reliable access to certified professionals for their construction needs,” he said.
Dangiwa further described the initiative as a game changer for the construction industry, stating that it would bridge the gap between supply and demand while promoting transparency and quality service delivery.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit through the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, which involves the development of seven new cities—one in each geo-political zone, including the Federal Capital Territory—as well as 30 Renewed Hope Estates across the country.
According to him, construction work is currently underway at 14 sites for 10,112 housing units, with a significant portion expected to be completed in the coming months.
In his remarks, Ayinde commended the minister for his dedication to advancing the Renewed Hope Housing Development Programme. He identified a shortage of skilled artisans as one of the key challenges facing the construction sector and emphasised the importance of training and certification initiatives.
He disclosed that his office was collaborating with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Federal Public Assets Maintenance (FPAM) department to train and certify artisans.
“This initiative will strengthen the local workforce, improve construction quality, and ensure that Nigerian artisans can compete at an international level,” Ayinde stated.
