The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has announced the formation of a housing reform team comprising experts and stakeholders. The objective is to enhance the performance of housing agencies under the ministry’s purview, with a focus on providing affordable homes for Nigerians.
Speaking during a meeting with the Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) delegation, led by Mr Ugochukwu Obiora Chime, the minister emphasized the inclusion of representatives from HDAN, agencies, professional bodies, and the academia in the reform team. The team’s mandate includes a comprehensive review of relevant laws and the facilitation of legislative amendments.
Arc. Dangiwa outlined the reform agenda, emphasizing the need to streamline previous blueprints and whitepapers to improve the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of housing agencies. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to ascertain the actual housing deficit through collaboration with the National Population Commission during the upcoming population and housing census.
In addition, the minister revealed plans for a land reform committee aimed at addressing challenges related to land access. This committee, involving state governments, traditional rulers, relevant agencies, professional bodies, and the academia, will advocate for the amendment of the outdated Land Use Act of 1978.
Furthermore, Arc. Dangiwa underscored the creation of a framework for the establishment of a National Social Housing Fund (NSHF) to provide decent accommodation for all Nigerians. He also highlighted initiatives to boost local building materials’ manufacturing to stimulate economic growth and reduce dependency on imports.
One of the key components of the reform agenda is the delivery of affordable housing units, including multi-level flats, terrace and detached bungalows, and duplexes across the country. The minister emphasized that the project aims to cater to low-medium income earners, with ownership options including mortgage loans, rent-to-own, and outright purchase.
Regarding the National Housing Programme, Arc. Dangiwa disclosed an ongoing comprehensive plan to ensure the completion of all units. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to delivering value and learning from the challenges encountered in the Programme.
In response, the leader of the HDAN delegation, Ugochukwu Obiora Chime, commended the ministry’s potential to serve as the catalyst for massive socio-economic development and employment generation. He emphasized the need to shift the perception of shelter from merely providing homes to a driver of socio-economic growth and local economic development.
The delegation also appealed to the minister to address issues related to land Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) pricing and outstanding housing bills at the National Assembly. They expressed confidence in the minister’s leadership and ability to implement innovative solutions to Nigeria’s housing deficits.
