In the bustling suburb of Gwarinpa, Abuja, Mr. Ojo finally decided to renovate his home. His three-bedroom bungalow needed new floor tiles, and like many Nigerians, he preferred hiring local artisans. A neighbor recommended a young tiler named Chike, praised for his “sharp work” and experience.

Chike showed up confidently, inspected the house, and quickly listed what was needed: 10 bags of cement and 200 floor tiles. But he exaggerated the requirements, insisting on 20 bags of cement and 400 tiles. Despite his doubts, Mr. Ojo trusted the artisan’s word and purchased everything.

After collecting ₦70,000 as a “mobilization fee,” Chike promised to start the next day. But he didn’t show up. Two days passed. When he eventually came, he blamed traffic and personal issues. Work finally began, but the signs of trouble became clear.

Chike rarely stayed on site. He left his apprentices—most unskilled—to do the job. The tiles were uneven and already cracking within a week. Cement bags and tiles started “disappearing,” and a neighbor even spotted Chike’s boys loading materials into a tricycle.

When confronted, Chike gave excuses and promised to replace the items. But shortly after, he vanished—calls unanswered, site abandoned. Mr. Ojo was left with a half-done floor, wasted materials, and a deep sense of regret. Another tiler later confirmed: the job only needed 10 bags of cement and 200 tiles—a far cry from what was bought.

This is not an isolated story. It’s a common Nigerian problem.

From tilers to plumbers, electricians to POP installers, many homeowners have experienced:

• Exaggerated estimates to inflate budgets
• Theft of materials
• Disappearing acts after collecting payment
• Shoddy work due to lack of training or proper tools

Why Does This Keep Happening?

1. Lack of Training and Certification: Many artisans learn on the job, with no formal education. They follow habits, not standards.
2. No Regulatory Body: There’s no system to verify quality or punish poor conduct.
3. No Accountability: Artisans jump from client to client with no consequences.
4. Outdated Methods: Few invest in tools or upskill themselves to meet modern demands.

What Can Be Done?

✅ Train and Certify Artisans – Government and private sector must support proper artisan schools and certification.
✅ Create a Trusted Artisan Directory – An online system with verified names, ratings, and reviews.
✅ Use Written Agreements – Clients should avoid verbal deals. Document materials, timeline, and payment milestones.
✅ Pay in Phases – Never pay fully upfront. Let payment follow progress.

Final Thoughts

Not all artisans are like Chike. Many are honest, skilled, and professional. But unless we build a structure that rewards competence and punishes carelessness, these bad experiences will continue.

Let’s fix our system. Let’s protect homeowners. Let’s empower true professionals.