FG BEGINS REVIEW OF COMPENSATION RATES FOR CROPS, ECONOMIC TREES * fair and adequate compensation, a moral duty not mere legal obligation - Dangiwa * President Tinubu has shown political will to implement reforms - Dangiwa Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has revealed that the Federal Government is on the verge of introducing revised compensation rates for individuals affected during land acquisitions for public projects, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to critical land reforms towards effective land administration in the country. Dangiwa spoke at the 2024 National Technical Development Forum on Land Administration focusing on the Review of Compensation Rates on Crops and Economic Trees for Project-Affected Persons in Nigeria, Monday 21st October 2024 The Minister noted that a review of the current compensation rates has become important for the purpose of ensuring project-affected individuals get fair value for their sacrifice. In addition, he underscored the critical value of crops and economic trees such as cocoa, palm, kola nut, mango, and cashew trees, among others, stating that they are not just sources of income, but multi-generational assets that represent years, even decades, of labor and hope. "These trees are also tied to cultural and social identities. When displaced or destroyed in the course of land acquisition for public projects, the loss can be devastating, not only financially but emotionally. That is why it is essential to ensure that compensation rates reflect the true value of these assets, considering both their immediate and long-term economic importance," he said. Explaining further, he said the review is a priority of the current administration and a central focus of effective land administration. "The Land Use Act of 1978 stipulates that the government has the right to acquire land for public purposes. But it also provides the framework for fair compensation when public land acquisition affects livelihoods. However, the reality on the ground often reflects delays, disputes, and inadequate compensation that fails to account for the true value of agricultural investments" he stated The Minister also said that the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, believed that adequate compensation for crops and economic trees is not just a legal obligation; but a moral one. Accordingly, he emphasised the importance of an effective land administration system, considering its importance for agriculture, industry, housing and urban development and its pivotal place as a lifeline for millions of Nigerians, pointing out that what the country has lacked for decades is effective land administration, and not a lack of land. "It is important to note that as a country, we are blessed with vast land covering about 923,769 square kilometers. We do not have a shortage of land. What we lack is effective administration and management of this massive resource that providence has bestowed on us. And until we can do so, we may not be able to unlock its potential and to develop at the pace that we need to" he stated Dangiwa, further noted that, Nigeria, unfortunately, for decades has been battling with issues such as security of land tenor, title and legal rights of possession, frictions in land transactions, coexistence of different categories of land rights (Native Rights, Customary Rights of Occupancy, and Statutory Rights of Occupancy… Accordingly, he explained thet the Land Use Act was intended to harmonize these laws, which it's implementation has been inconsistent, largely due to the absence of comprehensive guidelines. This, he said has left gaps in the uniform application of the Act, which 'we are now determined to address' While acknowledging the efforts of the National Technical Development Forum on Land Administration since its establishment in 2006, he stressed that a lack of political will to implement the great ideas and solutions of the past has rendered its efforts of no significant impact on Nigerians. "Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, we are committed to making a meaningful difference in land administration. To achieve this, we are bringing a new sense of urgency, political commitment, and determination. Fortunately, we now have a president who not only possesses the political will but also the determination to see these solutions implemented" Dangiwa remarked In addition, the Minister also disclosed that he was pleased, coming on board to reviewed the NTDF’s Terms of Reference and see that they align closely with the goals of Renewed Hope Agenda for streamlining land administration. " There is still a lot more that the NTDF can do to achieve its objectives, starting with aiming to achieve a 70% score in its delivery of the aims and objectives of its founders. In his remark, Permanent Secretary, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, represented by the Head, Public Private Partnership (PPP), Arc Abimbola Asei said the forum has been organised to validate the submissions and data gathered from field work by the World Bank Consultant. Dr Ogunbiyi emphasized, " the review rates to be adopted should reflect current market realities and incorporate inflation rates, changes in agricultural yields, cost of agricultural inputs to ensure that Project Affected Person receive compensation that mirrors the true value of their loss " He also maintained that the rates should reflect future economic potential of crops and economic tree, and the unique agricultural conditions, adding market realities of each geo-political zones must also be considered. The Permanent Secretary also reiterated the ministry's commitment in ensuring that compensation of crops and economic trees is fair, transparent, and reflective of current realities. Ogunbiyi further charged delegates with the adoption of "a human - centered approach that prioritize the well-being of the communities affected by public project." Also speaking, Senior Social Development Assistant, World Bank Group, Dr Michael Ilesanmi noted that the Forum and the new direction it is taking is a key step in strengthening Nigeria's capacity for environmental and social management, as well as the processes for land acquisition, resettlement and compensation. The Chairman of the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON), ESV Asiwaju Dosu Fatokun, hailed the commitment of the Minister and his team in driving the reforms, especially towards ensuring fair compensation for project-affected individuals and increased access to land for Developmental projects. Director of the Department of Lands and Housing Development at the Ministry, ESV Collins Alabi expressed his excitement at the momentum with which the current land reforms are taking place, noting that the revision of the compensation rates is an integral component of the overall reforms being driven by the ministry He thanked the minister for the support and innovation accorded the department since coming on board, noting that the next few months and years will unveil the fruits of all that has been done in recent time.
FG's Urban Development Agenda, A Necessesity for Wellbeing of Future Genenerations - Minister Gwarzo ** Says, sector policy initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, deliberate for collective good. Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Muhammad Gwarzo has stated that the integrated urban development agenda under the housing and urban development sector was intended to provide positive transformation of urban landscafe at all levels, thereby securing the future for Nigerians. Minister Gwarzo stated this in his closing address of the 2024 National Conference of Directors and Heads of Town Planning Organizations in Nigeria held at Dejavu Hotels abd Suites, Akure, Ondo State. The address of the Minister was read on his behalf by Director Urban and Regional Development of the Ministry, Tpl Dr Olakunde Akionola David. " It is imperative that we continue to prioritise sustainable development in all our planning and implementation efforts .... sustainable development is not just a goal, rather it is a necessity for the wellbeing of our current and future generations " Gwarzo stated The theme for the 2024 conference is 'Effective Physical Planning as a Panacea for Integrated and Sustainable Urban Development in Nigeria " Gwarzo who described the conference a valuable opportunity to catalogue the honest efforts of the current administration towards repositioning Nigeria's housing and urban development sector, commended the dutiful and indefatigable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for the massive strides in pointedly addressing issues of housing and sustainable development. Accordingly, the Minister appreciated the efforts of the many sector players at the states' governments level doing quite alot, saying what is remaining is to integrate and galvanize the individual efforts into a single and indivisible whole. " By integrating sustainable practices, we can create urban environments that are resilient, inclusive and capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change and rapid urbanisation " he concluded The Minister called on the participants to have a common focus on creating green spaces, promoting energy efficient buildings and ensuring that urban planning processes are environmentally friendly, pointing out that sustainable development will not only enhance the quality of life for citizens but also position Nigeria as one of the leaders in Innovative and responsible urban development. Ondo State Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Chief Bunmi Alade and Professor Albert Abegunde, a member of National Institute of Town Planners (NIPL), and Lecturer in University of Ife, attended the closing ceremony. The three days conference was attended by 197 Participants from 31 States of the federation and Federal Capital Territory (FCT). ...
MINISTER GWARZO JOINS SPANIARDS CELEBRATES NATIONAL DAY Honourable Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, His Excellency, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo has joined Spanish community in Nigeria to celebrate this year's (2024) Spain National Day at a reception organised by the country's embassy in Abuja. The Minister, earlier, in a congratulatory letter sent to the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Juan Ignacio Sell, noted that the longstanding bilateral relation between Nigeria and Spain brought about numerous benefits to both countries. Minister Gwarzo, praised Spaniards for preserving their rich cultural heritage which he said facilitated the country's developmental achievements, adding that the commemoration of the national day signifies the value attached to the esteemed norms of the Spaniards. He sought more collaboration between Spain and Nigeria especially in the area of Housing and Urban Development. "I look forward to further strengthen our bond as we work towards sustainable urban solutions which will be beneficial to the two countries," the Minister stated. During the reception, the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Juan Ignacio Sell has expressed his country's appreciation to the Minister Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo whom he described as the friend of Spain. He further hailed the existing mutual diplomatic relations between Nigeria and his country. Mr. Sell, said the two nations will continue to work together for the attainment of the aspirations of their people. ...
Dangiwa Charges Town Planners On Inclusive, Sustainable Cities * Says challenges of unplanned urban sprawl, inadequate infrastructure should be addressed * Urban centers are responsible for 27% of Nigeria’s total carbon emissions - Dangiwa * Concerted, collaborative efforts needed to combat challenges - Ondo Governor Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria: The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has called on Directors and Heads of Town Planning Organizations in Nigeria to champion the development of inclusive, sustainable cities that promote economic growth and resilience. Dangiwa made this charge in his keynote address at the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 National Conference of Directors and Heads of Town Planning Organizations organized by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development in Akure, Ondo State from Monday 14 to Wednesday 16 October 2024. The Minister lauded the theme of this year’s conference, " Effective Physical Planning as a Panacea for Integrated and Sustainable Urban Development in Nigeria”, noting that it has aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration, which seeks to build equitable and resilient cities across the country. Highlighting Nigeria’s rapid urbanization, Dangiwa pointed out that the nation’s urban population has risen sharply, growing from 15% in 1960 to 54% in 2022, with projections indicating that by 2050, 70% of Nigeria’s population will reside in urban areas On his part , Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa stated that concerted and collaborative efforts are needed to combat challenges in Nigerian cities. The Ondo State Governor was represented by his Commissioner of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Gbenga Olaniyi. The Governor mentioned that, Ondo State, as a case study, has taken deliberate measures which include; effective waste management and development of master plans for major cities as modalities to ensure healthy environment. Minister Dangiwa emphasized the urgency of addressing the challenges of unplanned urban sprawl, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. “Nigeria is urbanizing at a rate of 3.8% annually, and we are now over 50% urban. By 2030, nearly 60% of our population will live in cities. This rapid urban growth has resulted in unplanned expansion, which has negatively impacted infrastructure, mobility, and access to basic services,” Dangiwa stated. He cited the emergence of more than 360 new urban agglomerations between 2015 and 2020 as evidence of the spatial expansion that continues across the country. The Minister further noted that Nigeria’s cities are not only growing but are also contributing to environmental challenges, including increased carbon emissions and inadequate waste management systems. “Urban centers are responsible for 27% of Nigeria’s total carbon emissions, with energy, transport, and industry being the main contributors. We must act now to address these challenges if we are to build sustainable and livable cities.” Dangiwa outlined the Ministry's strategic initiatives to address these challenges. These include the comprehensive review of the 2012 National Urban Development Policy, which is soon to be approved by the Federal Executive Council, as well as the development of a National Policy on Rural Settlement Planning and a National Physical Development Plan aimed at promoting integrated and sustainable urban development. He also announced the Ministry’s collaboration with the World Bank on key projects, including the Urban Livability and Mobility Programme and a National Land Registration, Titling, and Documentation Programme, which seeks to streamline land administration in Nigeria. Accordingly, he explained the ongoing efforts of the Ministry in slum upgrades, urban renewal, and the housing sector, mentioning that 6,612 housing units across 13 states and the FCT are currently under construction under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, with additional projects underway in Lagos, Kano, and Enugu. He urged participants to embrace innovative approaches to physical planning and urban governance, stressing that effective planning is key to creating cities that are resilient, productive, and capable of driving economic growth. He also challenged participants to identify and address the systemic issues that hinder Nigeria’s urban development. “ Let us commit to building cities that work for all Nigerians – cities that are resilient, productive, and sustainable. I urge you to participate actively in this conference and take full advantage of the discussions and presentations. The future of our cities depends on the decisions we make today,” he concluded. In a goodwill message, Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Planning and Regional Development, Hon Dr Abiante Awaji, described the theme of the conference apt and in line with providing a healthy environment Hon Awaji blamed absence of standard master plans in cities and plans alteration causing huge challenges, encouraging partnership of stakeholders in design and development control in order to get excellence in our cities. Easier, in a welcome address, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, stated that , the Conference provides a platform for the participants to ruminate over issues that would positively reshape the human settlements ' systems of Nigeria. His address was read on his behalf by Director Urban and Regional Development in the ministry, Tpl Dr. Olakunde Akiona Dabid In attendance at the "Akure 2024' Conference were Directors and Heads of Town Planning Organizations in Nigeria, including, officials of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) and Town Planners Registration Council of Nigeria (TOPREC) The 2024 National Conference of Directors and Heads of Town Planning Organizations continues over the next few days in Akure, with town planners, experts, and government officials discussing solutions to Nigeria’s urbanization challenges. ...
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We are Committed to Improving Staff Welfare - Dangiwa
....Engages Tulsi Foundation Hospital to provide Free Medical Eye Test, Care for ministry's staff
As part of its commitment to improving the welfare and well being of staff, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, has engaged the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation Eye Hospital, Abuja to provide free eye medical tests and care for the staff of the ministry.
While declaring the commencement of the free eye care exercise, Minister Arc Ahmed Dangiwa, stated that, welfare of staff is paramount in order to build a healthy workforce to attain high performance. According to the minister, the eye hospital service delivery is not for profit venture rather service to humanity.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, described the free eye medical test for the stsff of the ministry as a milestone in response to staff welfare, pointing out that the issue of welfare is not only limited to money, but it covers the overall wellbeing of the staff. Dr Ogunbiyi applauded Minister, Arc Ahmed Dangiwa for bringing this free eye medical care, saying that it is the first of its kind in the ministry.
The coordinator of the Tulsi Chanrai Eye Hospital Foundation, commended the minister for the gesture, ssying that he didn't hesitate in welcoming the idea after mentioning it to him.
Keynote address delivered by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Marcus O. Ogunbiyi, at the launch of Performance Management day at the Ministry’s Headquarter, Mabushi, Abuja on 10th October 2024.
Protocols:
It is with immense pride and a deep sense of responsibility that I am with you today to officially launch the weekly Performance Management System (PMS) Day in our esteemed Ministry.
2. This is the beginning of a transformative journey for us as we heed the directive from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, which mandates every Thursday to be set aside for activities related to Performance Management System in the Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies and be christened “PMS Day”.
3. This directive is not just a routine exercise; it is a call to action for all of us to fully embrace the vision of an efficient, effective, responsive and performance-based Federal Civil Service.
4. Performance Management System is a tool for goal and target setting, appraisal and monitoring of employee performance and the delivery of institutional mandates. It provides a systematic process of planning work, setting targets, providing support to employees and measuring results.
5. It also provides the framework for continuous tracking of employees’ performance in a manner that is consistent and measurable, for developing and improving their capacities to perform on their jobs and for motivating them for increased productivity.
6. The institutionalization of a functional performance management system being one of the six pillars of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025, (FCSSIP25) will improve efficiency and productivity in the public service and is key to achievement of the objectives of the ongoing reform initiatives and culture re-orientation in the Public Service.
7. It will also ensure appropriate linkage of key government tools towards the attainment of national development goals and entrench a merit-based system in the Public Service. As a matter of fact, institutionalizing PMS is a cornerstone for our efforts to transform the entire Nigerian Public Service as a result-based and performing institution. PMS is an essential tool that provides a guide for the MDAs’ operations as we seek to reclaim our enviable position in delivering high-quality services to the Nigerian people.
8. The introduction of PMS has remained a timely project, and I have no doubt that it is exactly what the Federal Civil Service needs at this critical time to elevate our service delivery standards, enhance accountability, and build a positive culture of productivity, consequent management and continuous improvement in both personnel and institutional performance.
9. Today, as we launch the PMS Day in the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, we are not just institutionalizing a PMS weekly activity in the Ministry; we are reinforcing our commitment to excellence that has been the guiding ethos of the Ministry in the achievements of its deliverables of the Presidential Priorities and the implementation of the FCSSIP25 reform initiatives.
10. It is crucial to understand that the full implementation and institutionalisation of PMS is not just the responsibility of a few; it is a collective responsibility that spans all levels of our Ministry, from the most senior management cadre to the lowest-ranked officers, including security personnel and the janitorial service providers. Everyone has a vital role to play in ensuring that PMS is not just a beautiful policy on paper but a living, breathing organisational culture within the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
11. To all Directorate level officers, you are the leaders and the vision bearers of your respective departments. As PMS supervisors, your roles in driving this initiative cannot be overstated. Your commitment to the institutionalization of PMS in your respective departments are what will inspire and motivate other staff and team members to follow suit. You are the ones who will set the tone for accountability and performance at the departmental levels, and I urge you to lead by example.
12. I commend all the Departments and Units that have cascaded signing of performance contracts with staff. We have no place to hide. We have been a performing Ministry. We are determined and we shall continue to perform because PMS has come to stay in this Ministry. To move our sector and country forward, you and I must embrace this world-best practice and your department should not be a reason for the Ministry to lose its enviable high-ranking position as one of the leading MDAs in the implementation of Federal Government reforms and programmes.
13. To our middle and junior-level officers, your dedication and hard work are the bedrock of our Ministry’s success. The PMS is designed to recognize and reward your contributions, ensuring that your efforts are aligned with our shared vision and that your professional growth is supported.
14. I encourage you to see this initiative as an opportunity to showcase your talents, sharpen your skills, and play active roles in the development of our Ministry and the nation at large.
15. It is normal for a very young Ministry like ours to face some challenges especially in a housing and urban development sector with a high level of expectations in creating possibilities for social infrastructure as enabler for growth. These have not in any way deterred the Ministry from exploring possibilities and innovative ways of bringing about possible solutions including partnering with our stakeholders to be able to deliver on the Ministry’s mandate as expected.
16. However, with the full implementation of the PMS, we have a robust framework that allows us to measure our progress, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate our successes. It is a tool that will guide our decision-making processes and ensure that every action we take contributes to the fulfillment of our mandates in formulating and implementing the policies, programmes and projects of the Federal Government of Nigeria in the Housing and Urban Development sector.
17. As we set aside every Thursday to focus and reflect on our PMS activities, let us all commit to these sessions with the seriousness they deserve. Let us use this time to evaluate our performances, identify the gaps that need addressing, and collaboratively find solutions that will drive our Ministry forward. The PMS Day is our collective space for reflection, learning, and growth.
18. In conclusion, I am confident that if we fully embrace the PMS, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will set the benchmark for other Ministries to follow. Together, we can create a public service that is responsive, innovative, and committed to excellence.
19. Thank you for your commitment and dedication, and I look forward to working with all of you to make this initiative a success. It is on this note that I hereby launch today and every other Thursday as the PMS Day in the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
20. Thank you and God bless.
REMARKS BY THE HON. MINISTER OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ARC. AHMED MUSA DANGIWA, AT THE ZOOM MEETING WITH HER EXCELLENCY, DR. SANIA A. ANSARI, CHAIRPERSON, ANSARI GROUP LTD, UAE, ON MONDAY JULY 22, 2024
Protocols:
- Your Excellency, Dr. Sania A. Ansari, Chairperson, Ansari Group
- Officials of the Ansari Group
- Deputy Director, Middle East and Gulf Division, Amb. Murtala Jimoh.
- The Hon. Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Alh. Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo.
- The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi
- Directors, Special Assistants, and other Ministry staff on this Zoom Meeting.
THE HONORABLE MINISTER OF STATE, ABDULLAHI TIJJANI GWARZO, AND HIS TEAM ATTENDED THE EXPO REAL 2024, THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR FOR PROPERTY AND INVESTMENT, HELD IN MUNICH AT THE MESSE MüNCHEN EXHIBITION CENTER ON OCTOBER 9TH, 2024. THEY PARTICIPATED IN THE EVENT TO GAIN INSIGHTS AND COLLABORATE ON STRATEGIES THAT SUPPORT NIGERIA’S NATIONAL HOUSING INITIATIVES THROUGH INNOVATIVE HOUSING SOLUTIONS AND SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT.
The Honorable Minister of State, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, and his team attended the EXPO REAL 2024, the International Trade Fair for Property and Investment, held in Munich at the Messe München exhibition center on October 9th, 2024. They participated in the event to gain insights and collaborate on strategies that support Nigeria’s National housing initiatives through innovative housing solutions and sustainable urban development.
INSPECTION OF THE RENEWED HOPE HOUSING ESTATE, KARSANA DISTRICT, ABUJA BY SOME MANAGEMENT STAFF OF THE MINISTRY ON 17TH OCTOBER, 2024
Inspection of the Renewed Hope Housing Estate, Karsana District, Abuja by some management staff of the Ministry on 17th October, 2024