Abuja, Nigeria – A new dawn is breaking for aspiring homeowners across Nigeria! The Federal Government has unveiled an expansive, state-by-state homeownership and development program, set to revolutionize the nation’s housing landscape. This groundbreaking initiative, announced by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, at the 19th Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) in Abuja, aims to tackle Nigeria’s pressing housing needs head-on, strengthen local planning, and foster robust public-private collaborations.
“This is not just a policy, it is a high-impact outreach campaign,” Minister Dangiwa declared, emphasizing the government’s commitment to making homeownership accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of their income level. The campaign will offer a diverse range of housing options and streamline access to homeownership opportunities, ensuring that federal housing policies translate into tangible, state-level action.
Bridging the Gap: Experts to Guide States
Recognizing that significant challenges in housing delivery often stem from inadequate planning and financial frameworks at the state level, the federal government is taking a hands-on approach. Plans are underway to assign housing reform experts as special advisers to state governors. These dedicated advisers will be instrumental in:
- Organizing crucial State Housing Roundtables to assess existing development plans.
- Providing vital technical assistance to strengthen local capacity.
- Collaborating with key institutions like the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and Shelter Afrique Development Bank to unlock much-needed housing finance.
“Many state governments lack the technical capacity and tools to act decisively,” Dangiwa noted, highlighting the crucial support this campaign will provide through advisory services, implementation roadmaps, and innovative financing solutions. This coordinated strategy is designed to create a vibrant investment ecosystem, building on successes like the over ₦70 billion in private capital already attracted through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for the “Renewed Hope Cities” targeting mid-to-high income earners.
A Collaborative Path to Housing for All
Reinforcing the government’s unwavering commitment, Minister Dangiwa also announced the establishment of an Experts-led National Housing Policy Coordination and Monitoring Committee. This committee will rigorously evaluate and report on housing policy implementation nationwide, ensuring accountability and progress.
The Minister reiterated the inherently collaborative nature of this ambitious program, stressing the vital involvement of state governments, private sector investors, and international development partners. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between national housing policy and state-level execution while empowering citizens with the knowledge and tools to access affordable housing opportunities,” he affirmed.
Dangiwa passionately urged development partners, donor agencies, and private sector leaders to actively support this initiative. “Let us take the knowledge we share in conferences like this and transform it into concrete action in our communities,” he appealed. He underscored the urgency of addressing housing inequalities, stating, “Housing is not a privilege. It is a right; it is not just a roof; it is the bedrock of health, dignity, productivity, and national stability.” Investing in housing, he emphasized, is an investment in people, jobs, cities, and the very future of Nigeria.
While acknowledging that the government cannot single-handedly mobilize all necessary funding, Dangiwa highlighted the strategic importance of leveraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) with reputable developers for the “Renewed Hope Cities.” This approach has already proven successful in attracting substantial private capital.
The Minister extended his commendation to the organizers of the Africa International Housing Show, led by Mr. Festus Adebayo, for their unwavering dedication to housing development. Adebayo, in his address, lauded the show as a celebration of progress, ideas, and powerful partnerships, emphasizing the collective responsibility to build Africa’s future together.
This comprehensive, state-driven approach to housing promises to be a game-changer for millions of Nigerians. Stay updated on this monumental national development by visiting Nigeriawide.com!
Add Comment