Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc has announced plans to train more than 15,000 painters across Nigeria by 2027, as part of efforts to empower artisans and raise professional standards in the paints and coatings industry.
The company disclosed this during the fifth anniversary celebration of its Painters Academy in Lagos, reaffirming its commitment to advancing vocational excellence.
Established in 2019, the CAP Painters Academy was conceived as a cornerstone for technical training and capacity building in Nigeria’s paint sector. Over the past five years, it has trained more than 6,000 painters across 17 states, including Lagos, Abuja, Asaba, Enugu, and Ibadan.
Speaking at the event, CAP’s Chief Operating Officer, Jethro Iruobe, said the academy equips participants with product knowledge, modern application techniques, and the importance of surface preparation for durable finishes. Graduates receive certificates, mentorship opportunities, and inclusion in the CAP Professional Painters Directory.
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“The academy has grown into a nationwide movement that has trained thousands of painters, raised professional standards, and created opportunities for young Nigerians. This milestone strengthens our commitment to scale bigger, ensuring painting is not just a trade but a pathway to dignity, entrepreneurship, and lasting success,” Iruobe said.
To broaden its impact, CAP also unveiled a strategic partnership with the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) to accredit its programmes, enabling graduates to earn nationally recognised certification. NABTEB’s Chief Examination Officer, Lawani Meka, lauded the initiative, noting that the collaboration would enhance employability and professional recognition for painters.
The company also introduced the Business Pro Workshop, an advanced module focusing on entrepreneurship, financial management, and digital literacy to help painters grow sustainable businesses.
The anniversary featured refresher training sessions for alumni and current students, as well as the Paint Your Future: 5-for-5 Challenge, which awarded over ₦1.2 million in grants, professional toolkits, branded gear, and scholarships to outstanding painters.
Dignitaries at the celebration included representatives from NABTEB, the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), the Painters Guild of Nigeria, the Interior Decorators Association of Nigeria, the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and international trade partners.
With over 70 years of industry presence, CAP Plc—Nigeria’s leading paints and coatings manufacturer and a subsidiary of UAC of Nigeria Plc—continues to drive innovation and skills development through its diversified portfolio of brands including Dulux, Sandtex, Caplux, and Hempel.
Looking ahead, Iruobe said the academy will deepen industry collaborations and scale programmes nationwide to position Nigerian painters as globally competitive professionals and entrepreneurs.