The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youths through the National Artisans Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP).
He made this known while receiving a delegation from the University of Uyo Centre for Skills Acquisition and Rural Development, led by its Director, Ambassador Ernest Essien, in Abuja.
Ata said the Ministry is ready to partner with the Centre to train and equip Nigerians with practical skills that will help bridge the country’s labour gap.
“We will continue to collaborate with your Centre to identify areas of common interest,” he said. “The Ministry will also factor your needs into our 2026 budget to ensure necessary support for this project.”
The Minister commended the Centre for its comprehensive skills acquisition programs, which he noted align with NASAP’s objectives of producing skilled artisans to strengthen the labour market.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, described the partnership as a step toward achieving the Ministry’s vision of providing mass and affordable housing and supporting infrastructure development nationwide.
Earlier, Ambassador Ernest Essien said the visit aimed to seek collaboration with the Ministry to enhance skill acquisition and job creation, particularly in Akwa Ibom State. He praised the Ministry for training Nigerians in various trades and helping them compete effectively in the job market.
“The Ministry’s housing and infrastructure goals require a skilled and reliable workforce,” he said.
“We plan to contribute by producing certified tertiary-level artisan graduates ready to support national projects.”
Essien also commended the Ministry’s plan to train, certify, and provide jobs for 10,000 construction artisans annually over the next three years.
