FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT

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Federal Ministry of

Housing & Urban Development (FMHUD)

Federal Republic of Nigeria

Welcome To Federal Ministry Of Housing And Urban Development.

Minister Federal Ministry Of Housing And Urban Development Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa.

Housing And Urban Development.

Inspection Tour Of Houses For The National Housing Scheme.

Housing And Urban Development.

Aug

2025

LATEST PRESS

FG to Inaugurate National Building Code Advisory Committee

Housing and Urban Development Minister, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has announced plans to inaugurate the National Building Code Advisory Committee following the recent launch of a Ministerial Task Team to probe causes of building failures in Nigeria.

Dangiwa spoke in a keynote address delivered at a Workshop on National Building Safety and Structural Integrity Initiative (NBSSII) in Lagos, Wednesday, August 13th, 2025

Permanent Secretary, Dr Shuaib Belgore represented the Minister at the event

The Workshop organised by Lagos State, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, was a national campaign aimed at halting the growing wave of building collapses across Nigeria.

The event, hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Tafawa Balewa Square, brought together government officials, industry experts, and professional bodies.

In his address, the Minister said,

“Every building collapse is not just about the lives lost but also about the broken trust between government, professionals, and citizens,”

Dangiwa decryed poor design, substandard materials, and weak enforcement of building codes as root causes of building collapse in the country.

The Minister outlined the National Building Safety and Structural Integrity Initiative (NBSSII), which includes a nationwide audit of structures, a uniform inspection and certification system, strict code enforcement, and the use of e-GIS mapping with real-time inspection reporting.

He also announced plans to inaugurate the National Building Code Advisory Committee following the recent launch of a Ministerial Task Team to probe causes of building failures.

Governor Sanwo-Olu hailed the collaboration as a step towards safer cities and highlighted Lagos’ Certified Structural Integrity Programme (CSIP) as a model for other states. “We must build for life, not for collapse,” he said.

Governor Sanwo- Olu stresed that the significance of the joint responsibility among professionals, regulators, and the public to ensure the country’s built is safe, resilient, and sustainable.

Jun

2025

FG Seeks Strategic Support with UN-Habitat On National Urban Development Policy Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has called for deeper collaboration and implementation support from UN-Habitat as Nigeria enters a crucial phase in operationalizing its newly reviewed National Urban Development Policy (NUDP). Dangiwa made the call during his meeting with the representative of the Regional UN- Habitat office, Senior Human Settlement Officer, Mr. Mathias Spaliviero While appreciating the presentation on key issues to be addressed in Nigeria’s urbanization by the UN-Habitat team, describing it as “eye-opening and inspiring,” the Minister also commended the agency for its strategic partnership and technical guidance in the development of the reviewed NUDP. He noted that the UN-Habitat presentation reaffirmed Nigeria’s ongoing urban renewal initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. "You came and did a wonderful presentation. For us, it has opened our eyes because, as you are aware, Nigeria is undergoing a transformation in the housing and urban development sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he remarked. Arc Dangiwa also informed that this major milestone was recorded last week with the Federal Executive Council's approval of the reviewed National Urban Development Policy, noting that it was developed in close collaboration with UN-Habitat. He highlighted the administration’s commitment to delivering thousands of housing units through the development of Renewed Hope Cities, Renewed Hope Estates and Renewed Hope Social Housing, ensuring inclusive access for all income levels. He further noted that the ministry has embarked on a National Slum Upgrade and Urban Renewal Programme, that targets vulnerable urban communities across the country, affirming that the presentation came at the right time. He hailed the policy as a forward-thinking framework designed to guide Nigeria’s urban growth in line with global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals, New Urban Agenda and climate action imperatives. "The policy provides a clear and forward-looking framework for guiding urban growth in Nigeria. It is in harmony with the SDGs, the New Urban Agenda, and our commitments on climate change,” he said. Accordingly, the NUDP will be disseminated to State Governments to enable them domesticate the Policy in their respective states, and Ministries of Works, Environments and institutions, who may need the Ministry’s guidance. Arc. Dangiwa emphasized that while the policy development phase has been successfully concluded, the real challenges lies in its implementation, appealing to UN-Habitat to transition from being a policy support partner to an implementation partner capable of providing institutional capacity and technical expertise. "We need the right expertise and institutional support to implement this policy successfully. We still want to count on UN-Habitat, not just as a support expert but as an implementation partner. We will also require your help in recommending experts who can work with the Ministry in translating it to tangible measureable outputs at both the federal and state levels,” he stated. The Minister also referenced ongoing efforts by the ministry in partnership with the World Bank on a National Land Registration, Documentation, and Titling Programme, aimed at addressing the issue of untitled land, which affects over 90 percent of land nationwide. He welcomed UN-Habitat’s Strategic Action Plan on improving land governance, titling, and administration, and expressed Nigeria’s interest in technical support, pilot implementations and capacity building initiatives in selected states. “This presentation has given us hope. One of the most inspiring aspects was your use of streets as a tool for urban transformation in slums. It shows that transforming a cluster of slums can transform an entire city,” he said. Additionally, while affirming the Ministry’s Commitment to a continued collaboration with UN- Habitat, the World Bank and other strategic partners, Arc Dangiwa noted that the Ministry was on the right path with its slum upgrade and urban renewal programmes. Furthermore, Arc. Dangiwa reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to UN-Habitat’s vision, including the clearance of outstanding financial obligations. Earlier in his visual presentation on key issues to be addressed in Nigeria’s urbanization, the UN- Habitat Senior Human Settlement Officer, Mr. Mathias Spaliviero, emphasized that proper financial planning, effective rules and regulations, as well as proper planning and design are fundamental to the successful implementation of the slum upgrade program. ...

Jun

2025

Housing Ministry Presents Awards to Sports Club Members for Winning FEPSGA Medals * Inaugurates Staff Bus Committee The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has presented awards to the sports staff members of the Ministry who won medals at the Federation Public Service Games (FEPSGA) 2024, which took place at the Sharks stadium, Alfred Diette Spiff Sports Complex, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The Permanent Secretary, Dr Shuaib Belgore presented the awards at a specially organised ceremony that took place in his conference room. The medals won includes four (4) golds, six (6) silver and four (4) bronze medals, from different categories of sport games they participated. In his address, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, expressed profound congratulations to the sports club members of the Ministry for their outstanding achievements at the FEPSGA 2024. While praising the team for their dedication and team work, Belgore revealed his extreme keen interest in sporting activities, mentioning his past active participation in football game as well as his current involvement in squash game. He declared his love for success in sports, emphasizing on the health, brain and social benefits of sports; “it builds a spirit of competitiveness that you will bring into your endeavors in life. It is very important for humans to play”, he said. He also expressed pride in the teams performance, and the representation given to the Ministry not just at the FEPSGA game, but also at the just concluded May 2025 edition of the monthly walking Jogging exercise where the team won two Trophies in the categories of best Kitted Ministry, and the third highest in attendance. He called on the team to encourage other staff members who were not already involved in the sporting activities to join. While presenting the medals to the winners, Belgore announced that the gold medal winners will get a hundred thousand naira (₦ 100,000), the silver medal winners, seventy five thousand naira (₦ 75,000), and the bronze winners fifty thousand naira (₦ 50,000). Accordingly, Belgore promised to provide necessary support, facilities, and allowances for the team, while wishing them continued success and injury-free performances. Earlier, the Director Human Resource Management (HRM), Adesina Akinola, informed that the medals won by the sports team at the May 2025 edition of the monthly walking Jogging exercise, was the first in the history of the Ministry. While congratulating the team, he acknowledged their commitment and hard work, further appreciating the support of the Permanent Secretary in providing the resources. Mr. Adesina also expressed optimism in the future achievements of the sports team. In his remarks, the Team Manager of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development Sports Club, Comrade Salisu Achineje, said that the event was not just collection of individual achievements but a testament to the unwavering dedication, relentless effort, and exceptional teamwork that defines the group of athletes. He thanked the Permanent Secretary for his support and belief in the sports club, as well as resources, encouragement, and vision provided, which has enabled the team reach great heights. Mr. Achineje further congratulated his team members and looked forward to building on the successes achieved to make the Ministry more proud in the future. The high point of the ceremony was the decoration of the Permanent Secretary as the Grand Patron of the sports club, and presentation of a certificate of appreciation to him, as well as to the Director of Human Resource Management, for their support. In another development, the Permanent Secretary, Dr Belgore inaugurated a ten-member bus committee who would oversee matters concerning the Ministry's staff buses. The committee has the Director, Human Resource Management as the chairman; other members are; i) Ayodele Ademola -D (PA-PS) ii) Hikmat A. Aderibigbe- D ( ES) iii) Stephen Jude -DD (SW&T Iv)) Hajiya Hussaina Sarki AD (SW) V) Salamatu M. Omar CAO (SW) Desk Officer Vi) Com. Eno Efughi Chairperson (JUC) vii) Com. Davou Ezeikel Chairperson (AUPCTRE) Viii). Com. Okeowo Alaba (NUPSRAW) ix) Com. Afiniki Yerima (ASCSN The committee is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring proper accountability, technical oversight, and maintenance of the staff buses. In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary assured that the Ministry was already in the process of acquiring some new staff busses. While thanking the committee for their efforts, he emphasized on the importance of maintaining the buses for staff use. Belgore strictly warned on the usage of the buses, saying that they are not to be used for personal or external trips such as burials, naming ceremonies, and the likes, in order to ensure their longevity. He urged the committee to work conscientiously towards maintaining the buses and ensuring they are used only for ministry activities. Accordingly, The Permanent Secretary informed that the committee is expected to generate revenue by charging token fees for trips, which will be reinvested into maintenance and potentially used to purchase more buses. ...

Jun

2025

Federal Executive Council Approves Revised National Urban Development Policy To Transform Nigeria’s Urban Future * NUDP, a critical milestone in Nigeria’s urban journey - Dangiwa * Policy aligns with Renewed Hope Agenda, SDGs obligations, New Urban Agenda, Paris Agreement on Climate Change, AU Agenda 2063 In a landmark decision that underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable urbanisation, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the revised National Urban Development Policy (NUDP). The Policy provides a transformative framework to guide urban planning, development, and governance across Nigeria, over the next decade. The revised policy, developed by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development in collaboration with UN-Habitat and other key stakeholders, replaces the previous 2012 edition. It reflects the pressing realities of Nigeria’s urban challenges and the country’s global development commitments. The policy aligns closely with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as well as Nigeria’s obligations under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the New Urban Agenda, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and the Africa Union Agenda 2063. With over 70% of Nigeria's population projected to live in urban areas by 2050, the need for a new, integrated urban development framework has become urgent. The NUDP responds to this challenge by introducing a "business unusual" approach that departs from fragmented, reactive planning, and embraces proactive, inclusive, and long-term strategies. It recognises that effective urban development requires strong institutions, strategic leadership, and citizen participation. A major focus of the policy is the strengthening of urban governance. It advocates for the creation of metropolitan commissions and regional planning bodies to manage Nigeria's fast-growing urban regions and conurbations that cut across administrative boundaries. This includes enabling a more coherent system of cities, improved intergovernmental coordination, and decentralised urban management structures. In terms of social inclusion, the policy embeds a pro-poor, pro-vulnerable urban design philosophy. It calls for planning and development that prioritise women, youth, persons with disabilities, and the informal sector. By improving access to housing, infrastructure, public spaces, and basic services, the NUDP aims to create cities where all residents can live with dignity and opportunity. Climate change is another critical pillar of the new policy. Nigeria faces escalating climate risks including flooding, drought, desertification, and extreme weather events. In response, the NUDP mainstreams climate resilience into urban planning. It promotes green infrastructure, nature-based solutions, renewable energy adoption, and spatial strategies like compact, walkable neighbourhoods-commonly known as the "15-minute city" model-to build cities that are not just liveable but also sustainable. Equally important is the policy's emphasis on urban economic transformation. It positions cities as engines of economic growth, job creation, and diversification beyond oil. By promoting spatial efficiency, mixed-use development, and better integration of land use and transport systems, the NUDP seeks to harness the productivity and innovation potential of dense, well-connected urban centres. The policy also supports improved municipal finance systems to enable cities to raise more own-source revenues and reduce over-reliance on federal allocations. Recognising the importance of technology and data in effective urban management, the policy encourages the adoption of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) mapping, and other digital tools to support evidence-based planning, land administration, disaster preparedness, and efficient service delivery. To ensure success, the NUDP provides a clear implementation framework with defined roles for federal, state, and local governments. It calls for capacity building, public awareness campaigns, and strong partnerships with the private sector, academia, and civil society. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are embedded to ensure accountability and track progress. The approval of the National Urban Development Policy (NUDP) marks a significant milestone and a major achievement for the Ministry. In addition to this success, the Ministry is actively advancing several other key initiatives, including the National Physical Planning Standards, which is currently undergoing extensive stakeholder engagement at various levels. Another important initiative, the National Policy on Rural Settlements Planning and Development, seeks to address the challenges of rapid urbanization by identifying development gaps in rural areas and providing targeted solutions. This approach aims to reduce the pressure on urban centers by discouraging rural-to-urban migration through improved rural development. Furthermore, a number of regional development plans are presently in progress across the country. These initiatives collectively demonstrate the Ministry’s strong alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, an agenda that prioritizes not only housing delivery but also the broader goal of sustainable urban development. Speaking on the significance of the policy approval, the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, stated: "The NUDP is a critical milestone in Nigeria's urban journey. It provides us with a clear roadmap to plan and build cities that are productive, liveable, inclusive, and climate-resilient. With this policy, we are better positioned to harness the full potential of our urban spaces to drive national development and uplift the quality of life for all Nigerians." The Ministry will immediately begin nationwide sensitisation and capacity-building engagements to support the effective rollout of the policy. The NUDP document can be accessed on the Ministry’s website via https://www.fmhud.gov.ng/themes/front_end_themes_01/images/download/25060893318.pdf ...

OTHER NEWS

Nov

2019

2019 URBAN OCTOBER: FG Calls for Collective Resolve for Sustainable Urban Development

Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has called for a collective reflection, stocktaking and strengthening partnerships, to accelerate action in the pursuit for sustainable urban development in Nigeria.

Fashola made the call in his keynote address at the commemoration of the 2019 World Habitat Day and World Cities Day yesterday in Abuja.

The 2019 Urban October has the themes:“Frontier technologies as an innovative tool to transform waste to wealth” and “Changing the World: Innovations and a Better Life for Future Generations “

The Minister of State for Works and Housing, Engr. Abubakar D.Aliyu, read the keynote address on behalf of Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola,SAN, the Minister of Works and Housing.

Fashola said we all have the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and build the type of cities we desire for our good health and well-being, and for that of our future generation.

Fashola disclosed that in partnership with UN Habitat the Federal Government had embarked on the review of the National Urban Development Policy as well as implementing urban renewal and slum upgrading programmes in several urban communities across the country.

With a view to creating smart and sustainable cities across the nation, the minister maintained that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has not relented in its commitment to making sure that Nigerians have a better life by addressing the housing and infrastructure challenges and those posed by unplanned cities which led to increased slums and shanties.

He listed the various programmes already embarked upon by the Government through his ministry, which include: the on-going National Housing Programme, the launch of the National Maintenance Framework for Public Building as well as the review of the Urban Development Policy.

In his welcome address the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mohammed Bukar, said the celebration of the World Cities Day around the world was to enable us view cities as drivers and incubators of innovations, industries, technology, entrepreneurship and creativity in ground breaking ways to achieve lasting impacts on the communities, and to ensure that "No one and no place is left behind as we build the future we want."

In her goodwill message, the Executive Director, UN HABITAT, Mrs. Maimunah Moh Sharif, called on stakeholders to identify ways to overcome challenges confronting urbanisation in a way that everyone’s life could be improved.

She noted that cities are the best place of innovation and creativity, assuring that UN Habitat would be ready to fully support the Federal Government in her bid to create sustainable urbanization.

The Chairman Senate committee on Housing, Senator Sam Egwu represented by his Vice, Senator Oyelola Isa Ashiru pledged the Committee’s full support towards achieving a sustainable development of our cities.

The highlights of the event were:the Honourable Minister’s inspection of the exhibition stands and presentation of gifts to students of Witty Might Academy, Holy Child Educational Homes and Fine Trust Academy for song rendition, poem and drama presentation at the 2019 Urban October celebrations.

Feb

2019

FG To Erring Contractors, Up Your Games Or Face Sanctions

The Zonal Director of the National Housing Programme in the North- West, Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Architect Joseph Toluhi, has urged erring contractors handling the on going construction of housing project in Kebbi State to step up their games or face necessary sanctions.

He noted that contractors, who fails to perform diligently on the job will have to give way for others to be engaged, adding that relevant clauses in the contract agreement can be invoke for appropriate sanctions.

This was contained in a statement by the Zonal Director on Wednesday in Biriin Kebbi during the North-West inspection tour to the project site.

Toluhi stated that the federal government is committed to provide decent and affordable housing to its teeming population and reduce the housing deficit in the country, adding that the NHP project is designed for the medium income earners who have the affordable means to acquire these houses across the nation.

The National Housing Programme, Kebbi State consist of 76 housing units of 1bedroom, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms semi-detached bungalows, are being handled by 19 indigenous contractors.

In a similar development, the zonal inspection team led by Toluhi also visited the National Housing Programme site in Sokoto State to have on-the-spot assessment of the on going construction works which has reached 95 per cent completion stage.

“I must say that I am pleased and happy with the level of progress of work on this site because we have a very high level of competition. Most of the building here have been completed”. He noted that out of 20 contractors engaged, 12 of them have already been completed while four are yet to be roofed.

According to him, “this means, we are ready to move into these buildings. The infrastructure such as water supply, road arterial and water supply have reached a very high level of completion”.

The Team Leader in Sokoto State, Mr lliya Kastuda also confirmed that construction work has reached 95 percent completion, adding that there is provision of worship centers, school, market to give necessary comfort and police post to ensure adequate security within the housing estate.

The zonal Director and other officials of the Ministry inspected a similar project in Gusau, Zamfara State, which is put at 65% completion stage. He however expressed disappointment in the poor quality of job done, stressing that government will not tolerate sub-standard jobs from any contractor.

SPEECHES

Nov

2024

REMARKS DELIVERED BY THE PERMANENT SECRETARY, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AT THE 13^TH MEETING OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON LANDS, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, HOLDING IN GOMBE, GOMBE STATE, ON 11^TH TO 15^TH NOVEMBER 2024.

PROTOCOLS

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.1 It is with great pleasure and a profound sense of purpose that I welcome you all to this important 13th National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development holding here in Gombe, Gombe State with the theme "Housing the Future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilient and Urban Development”. I am also truly honored to address this distinguished gathering of Permanent Secretaries and Professionals from the Housing and Urban Development Sector.

1.2 This Council meeting serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to advance the development of the Housing and Urban Development Sector in Nigeria and your presence here today demonstrates the commitment you have towards achieving this objective.

2.0.Greetings and Appreciations

2.1 Let me use this opportunity to once again appreciate the Executive Governor of Gombe State, His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for accepting to host this 13^th Meeting of the Council and for his support to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. I would also like to commend the Officials of the State Government for ensuring the provision of everything necessary towards ensuring the success of this Council meeting. I also express my gratitude to the good people of the State for the warm reception accorded to all the Participants following their arrival in the beautiful city of Gombe.

2.2 I must also use this opportunity to express our gratitude to the Chairman, Senate Committee on Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Senator Sen. Aminu Tambuwal, Chairman; House Committee on Housing and Habitat, Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin and Chairman, House Committee on Urban Development and Regional Planning, Awaji-Inombek Abiante for their Legislative support for the development of the Housing and Urban Development Sector in Nigeria.

3.0 Reflecting on the Progress and Challenges in the Sector

3.1 We have gathered here not only to exchange best practices and review Policies but also to confront and tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing our Nigeria today—challenges of affordable housing shortages; rapid urbanization due to high population growth and increased rural urban migration; poor access to land for housing development and unsustainable urban planning, which continue to exert pressure on our urban infrastructure and housing stock.

3.2 The yearly National Council on Land, Housing and Urban Development has a reputation for fostering collaboration, generating innovative ideas and advancing meaningful solutions and I am confident that this year’s edition will not be different. I am also confident that the collaborative energy here today with my fellow Permanent Secretaries will continue to fuel our shared progress and yield actionable steps to achieve sustainable urban growth across our Nation.

3.3 Over the past few years, the Ministry has worked relentlessly to advance strategic Policies and Initiatives to drive Urban Development and increase the accessibility and affordability of housing for all Nigerians. Through ongoing Projects and Partnerships, we have strengthened our commitment to Nigerians by delivering affordable housing, improving land use policies and setting the foundation for resilient urban communities.

3.4 As you are all aware, under the current Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the housing sector, the Ministry has made significant progress in housing construction in all the geo-political Zones of the Country under its Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Housing Programme and the Honorable Minister has displayed strong commitment to the success of the Programme. This unprecedented progress is also due to the cooperation and support of the various state governments. I am sure that that the support could not have been possible without the cooperation of my colleagues Permanent Secretaries. I say thank you and request for your continued support in pushing forward the lofty renewed hope agenda of our dear President, especially in the housing and urban development sector.

3.5 Furthermore, knowing the importance of housing data for decision making, the Honourable Minister inaugurated a Steering Committee under my Chairmanship, which was tasked with the responsibility of providing direction and oversight for the collection of National Housing Data from Public and Private Institutions and creating access to housing data in Nigeria for Policy, Planning and decision-making. This Committee has already mandated its Technical Working Group (TWG) to come up with the Governance and Data Gathering Frameworks and modalities for setting up the National Housing Data Center (NHDC). This Programme is among some of the key initiatives of the Ministry geared towards the achievement of our mandate.

3.6 You would all agree with me that the housing and Urban Development sector faces formidable challenges, which demand a united front from both Government and Private Sector Actors to create enduring solutions. This is because the need for affordable, accessible and sustainable housing, as well as inclusive urban development has never been more urgent.

4.0 Strengthening Collaboration and Innovation

4.1 This year’s theme, "Housing the Future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilient and Urban Development” is not just a topic for discussion; it is a call to action. To meet the demands of today and to plan for a sustainable future, we as Partners in Progress; must foster Public-Private Partnerships, promote innovative Technologies and harness the resources within our communities. By bringing together Thought Leaders, Policy Experts, and Community Advocates, we are not only setting the direction for future growth but also building a legacy of resilience and inclusivity for generations to come.

4.2 Since this commencement of the National Council meeting, we have been deliberating on critical areas including, Improving access to land; land Titling and Registration; Building collapse; Social Housing; Green Building practices, Partnerships, Institutional strengthening and Policy. I urge each of you to continue to participate actively, bringing forth your unique perspectives, experience and expertise as we work toward actionable solutions that will shape the future of our Cities and Communities.

4.3 It is noteworthy that one of the recurring issues that has come up since the commencement of this Council meeting on Monday has been the issue of the need for close monitoring of the implementation of the Resolutions reached at the Annual National Council meetings. This will require regular monitoring of implementation status by all levels of Government and the plan of the Ministry going forward is to work closely with key Stakeholders on the Implementation status of their relevant Resolutions through periodic review sessions. Concerned with the non-implementation of Council resolutions over the years, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development sponsored a memo this year to seek the approval of Council for the mid term monitoring of the implementation of Council resolutions. I am happy to inform you that the Technical Session held yesterday accepted the prayers and this will be presented to the body of Permanent Secretaries today.

4.4 Our collective vision is clear: a Nigeria where every Citizen has access to safe, affordable housing within thriving, sustainable communities. This Council is instrumental in realizing that vision and each contribution made here will impact lives and strengthen our Nation’s socio-economic fabric.

4.5 In closing, let me extend my profound gratitude to all of you for your commitment and collaboration in the work that lies ahead. The outcome of this Council and Permanent Secretary’s meeting will play a pivotal role in shaping our Policies, guiding our Projects and laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

4.6 On behalf of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, I thank you for your participation and wish all of us fruitful deliberations. May our efforts this week set a course for lasting and positive change in Nigeria.

4.7 Thank you and may God bless our nation.

Nov

2024

Introductory Remarks by the Director, Planning Research and Statistics, Mohammed Bala Saulawa at the 13^th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development hold in Gombe - Gombe state from Monday, 11^th to Friday, 15^th November, 2024

Protocol

1. Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed professional and honoured guests, I am delighted and indeed privileged to welcome you to this historic meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development. Today, we convene under the timely theme “Housing the future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilient and Urban Development”. This year’s Council meeting promises to be pivotal, as we delve into eight (8) critical sub-themes, each accompanied by comprehensive memoranda for vigorous deliberation. Over the next few days, we will engage in insightful discussions, share expert expertise and forge innovative solutions to propel our Nation’s housing sector forward.

2. As you are aware, the National Council is the highest body that deals with the initiating of policy formulation, adoption and ensuring the implementation of the key decision of the Council Meeting. Also, we recognize the significance of this document in shaping the future of our housing sector and today, we have an opportunity to review and provide input on this critical document.

3. It is imperative to note that the 13^th Meeting of the Council is structured into these dimensional Sessions:

Technical Meeting of the Directors whilst to review the Memoranda and fine-tune the recommendations for onward presentation to Permanent Secretaries Sessions.
The Permanent Secretaries Session is an avenue to discuss further on the recommendations made by the Technical Meeting of the Directors, and Ministerial Session.
The Council which is to be presided over by the Honourable Minister with the attendance of Commissioners of 36 States in Housing Sector.

4. These Sessions are expected to bring about housing policies that will alleviate the difficulties of providing the affordable houses in Nigeria, provide equilibrium in demand and supply of housing market and tackle rapid increase of building collapse in Nigeria. The housing sector policy in Nigeria is crucial for addressing the country's significant housing needs. Housing is considered the second most important human need, after food, and is essential for human survival. Despite this, Nigeria's housing sector contributes a mere 0.38% to the country's GDP.

Effective housing policies can have far-reaching benefits, including:

Economic Growth: A well-developed housing sector can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and increase GDP.
Social Stability: Access to affordable housing can improve living standards, reduce poverty, and promote social stability.
Infrastructure Development: Housing development can drive infrastructure growth, including roads, utilities, and community facilities.

5. To achieve these benefits, Nigeria's housing policy should focus on the following key aspects:

Affordable housing by providing options for low-income earners.
Accessibility and inclusivity by ensuring housing is accessible to all, including the less privileged, the old, and those with disabilities.
Sustainable development by Promoting sustainable housing development practices and environmentally friendly materials.
Regulatory frameworks
Public-private partnerships

As professionals in the housing sector, your insights and expertise are vital. I encourage open and constructive dialogue to ensure this policy aligns with our shared vision.

Our objectives are clear:

1. Improving access to affordable housing
2. Enhancing quality of life for our citizens
3. Fostering sustainable and inclusive communities
4. Supporting economic growth and development

Also, as we deliberate, let us consider the following questions:

1. How can we balance affordability with quality and sustainability?
2. What innovative solutions can we adopt to address housing challenges?
3. How can we ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all?

6. By prioritizing these areas, Nigeria's housing sector policy will play a vital role in improving the lives of its citizens and driving national development. However, various dimensional experts, professionals and other stakeholders are expected to get their buy-in ideas for housing policy development. Your contributions will shape the future of our housing policy by engaging in productive discussions to produce meaningful outcomes.

7. In view of the utmost importance of this National Housing Council, I enjoin all of you to display high level of professionalism, expertise and your technical reservoir knowledge on housing sector.

8. I want to align my expectations on the confidence reposed on our esteem Directors, stakeholders, Secretariat as well as other participants who are here to enrich our meeting with valuable contributions towards a successful outcome of the Council.

9. On this note, I wish to assure you that the Ministry in collaboration with the Gombe State Government has made adequate preparation for the smooth conduct of this great Council meeting.

10. Before I conclude, I would like to extend my profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister for his kind support in all ramifications, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as well as Gombe state Government for hosting the event and providing enabling environment for the Meeting.

11. Thank you all for your concerted effort.