The Minister of State for Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has called for a special partnership with private developers to provide subsidized mass housing schemes at affordable rates.
Speaking at the ongoing International Real Estate Conference and Exhibition (IRECE) in Abuja, Dr. Mahmoud emphasized the need for measures such as urban renewal programs and the construction of decent and affordable housing estates by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to accommodate their staff.
She stressed the importance of unwavering government commitment, political will, and consistent budgetary provision aimed at increasing the nation’s housing stock to address the housing challenges in Nigeria.
Describing housing as a fundamental necessity and a key indicator of living standards, Dr. Mahmoud highlighted the significance of the conference’s theme in addressing the global housing crisis.
Meanwhile, Mr. Franklin Ajayi, the convener of the conference, lauded the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for enabling developers to voice their perspectives in the housing sector. Ajayi, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Sim and Lloyd Limited, appealed for policies that would foster private developer participation to alleviate Nigeria’s housing deficit.
This initiative, advocated by the Minister, marks a significant step towards addressing the housing deficit in the FCT and potentially across Nigeria. By fostering partnerships with private developers and emphasizing the importance of government commitment, the Minister’s approach holds promise in tackling the pressing issue of housing deficit.
