Oct

16

2023

Ministry of Housing & Urban Development Plans Visionary Cross-Subsidization Initiative to Boost Inclusive & Affordable Housing

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has revealed plans to introduce a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing inclusivity and affordability in Nigeria through the introduction of cross subsidies in housing projects.

This visionary strategy, championed by the Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, promises to redefine housing accessibility by integrating a mix of low, medium, and high-end housing projects, ensuring inclusivity for Nigerians of all income brackets.

Arc. Dangiwa, unveiled this innovative approach while reviewing affordable housing options presented by the Ministry’s Affordable Housing Building Design Committee. The Minister had established the Committee during his first week in office to review designs of Ministry’s projects and ensure that houses that the Ministry promotes fall within price-ranges that low- and medium-income earners can afford.

The revised designs featured several cost-saving changes including organic one one-bedroom bungalows to lower cost of purchase while allowing beneficiaries the latitude to expand to two and three-bedrooms as his income increases, optimized space management, smart roofing techniques and basic internal finishings amongst several others. 

In his remarks, Arc. Dangiwa commended the Design Team for their creativity. He also emphasized the necessity of embracing innovative concepts like cross subsidies to counter the challenges posed by inflation, the soaring costs of building materials, which have led to an increase in planned house prices. 

"I am impressed with the work that the Affordable Housing Design Team has accomplished, thus far, in reducing the cost of houses that we plan to promote so that all Nigerians can benefit. While there is progress, the escalating cost of building materials has almost taken off all the savings from the revised designs. For us to achieve our goals, we have to think out of the box and embrace creative solutions. This is why we plan to work out a comprehensive framework for introducing cross subsidies in projects delivered through Public Private Partnerships and the agencies under the Ministry," stated Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development.

He explained that cross subsidies are important policy tools used by governments and urban planners to address housing affordability issues and promote inclusive urban development. 

He added that the approach involves redistributing the costs and benefits of housing development across different income groups. “The reality of the affordable housing debate is that many civil servants and other Nigerians working in the public sector cannot even afford a decent mortgage with their salaries. Our mechanism will be to promote market-based prices for high end developments to those who can afford it, thereby subsidizing housing costs for lower-income households.”

The Ministry's vision for implementing cross-subsidy is rooted in a commitment to social equity and inclusive urban development. By strategically channeling profits from high-end housing projects, the Ministry aims to promote a housing landscape where every citizen, regardless of income, finds a place to call home. This approach is not merely about constructing houses; it's about fostering communities where opportunities are equal, and prosperity knows no bounds.

Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa further elaborated on the Ministry's ambitious objective: "We are not driven by profit but the desire to ensure that all Nigerians have access to decent and affordable housing. Through cross-subsidy, we aspire to create a blueprint for a harmonious society, ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared by all. We are transforming the dream of affordable housing into a tangible reality for our citizens."
 

About Cross Subsidies for Housing:
Housing projects are designed with a mix of units catering to varying income levels. Market-rate units are priced higher, often reflecting the actual cost of construction and profit margins for developers. Within the same project, a certain percentage of units are allocated as affordable housing. These units are sold or rented at prices significantly lower than the market rate. Revenues generated from the market-rate units subsidize the construction and maintenance costs of affordable units. This subsidization allows lower-income families to access housing at a reduced cost.

Cross subsidies ensure that diverse income groups can reside within the same community, promoting social integration and preventing the formation of economically segregated neighborhoods.

Oct

06

2023

Dangiwa Initiates Technical Collaboration on Social Housing with Algeria’s Ministry of Housing, Urban Planning, and the City

In a significant move toward ensuring efficiency and sustainable impact of planned social housing initiatives in Nigeria, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, Nigeria's Minister of Housing and Urban Development, met with Mohamed Tarek Belaribi, Minister of Housing, Urban Planning, and the City, Algeria, at the Sheraton Hotel in Algiers. The ministers engaged in a fruitful discussion centered around sharing expertise and knowledge on social housing programs. The meeting was on the sidelines of the 2023 Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of Shelter Afrique which held from 3rd to 6th October.

In his remarks, Arc. Dangiwa underscored Nigeria's commitment to addressing its housing challenges under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. He revealed plans to rapidly increase Nigeria’s housing stock annually and create new cities across the country. He also mentioned the government’s plans to establish a National Social Housing Fund (NSHF) to cater to the housing needs of No income and low-income Nigerians and expressed eagerness to learn from Algeria's successful social housing model.

Minister Belaribi welcomed the hon. minister and his team while acknowledging the pivotal role housing plays in Algeria. He highlighted Algeria's remarkable progress, producing and distributing 1,160,000 housing units in 2020 and 400,000 units in 2022. Belaribi outlined Algeria's Integrated Cities approach, which includes incorporating schools, hospitals, roads, and ensuring security measures. He stressed the importance of urban and land development, citing the National Scheme on Urban Development and the creation of five new cities as pivotal steps.

Regarding social housing formulas, Belaribi outlined diverse approaches, including delivering units without any upfront payment, a rent-to-own scheme managed by the Agency of Amelioration and Development of Housing (AADH), and tailoring housing sizes based on income and family size. He also discussed the innovative National Bank on Housing, allowing subscribers to save for homeownership, thereby reducing the government's financial burden.

Minister Belaribi expressed readiness for collaboration, organizing meetings with key officials and offering Algeria's expertise in various fields. He emphasized the importance of establishing a formal agreement between the two ministries and proposed a comprehensive framework for joint efforts.

The meeting between the two ministers marked a crucial step toward international cooperation, fostering collaboration that promises significant advancements in social housing, benefiting the citizens of both Nigeria and Algeria.

Oct

04

2023

Housing Minister Commends BUA Cement PLC’s Decision To Reduce Cement Price To N3,500

Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, the Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, has applauded BUA Cement Plc’s recent decision to reduce the price of cement to N3,500 from about N5,500.

He said the proactive gesture will reduce the cost of cement, which is a major cost in housing construction, and that it supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to provide affordable housing to Nigerians.

The Minister made these remarks in response to BUA Plc’s official announcement of the reduction on Sunday, 1st October 2023. He underscored that the soaring cost of cement has led to a drastic increase in house prices, making them unaffordable for the average Nigerian, adding that that BUA Cement Plc’s decision represents a substantial stride toward easing the financial burden on aspiring homeowners.

Dangiwa emphasized that since assuming office, he has made promoting the delivery of affordable housing as a top priority in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. “The escalating prices of building materials, especially cement, have placed a daunting obstacle on the path to homeownership for many Nigerians. BUA Cement Plc’s decision to reduce the price of cement to N3,500 is highly commendable. It reflects their understanding of the struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians and is a positive step towards making housing more affordable and attainable for all,” he noted.

“I commend BUA Cement Plc for their socially responsible decision to reduce the price of cement. Accessible and affordable housing is a fundamental right, and this move by BUA Cement Plc will undoubtedly alleviate the challenges faced by our citizens. It demonstrates a shared commitment to improving the lives of our people and furthering the goals of sustainable urban development.”

The Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development stated that BUA Cement Plc’s initiative will not only benefit individual homeowners but will also stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and lift many Nigerians out of poverty by fostering affordable housing construction and infrastructure development.

He encouraged other industry players to emulate BUA Cement Plc’s example, urging them to consider the social impact of their decisions. He believes that collaborative efforts between the government and private sector entities are essential in overcoming the challenges related to housing affordability and ensuring the realization of decent living conditions for every Nigerian citizen.

Sep

19

2023

Dangiwa Advocates Rapid Implementation of Housing Reforms by State Governments

The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has called for the rapid implementation of housing reforms by State Governments to create an enabling environment for increased private sector investment and improve access to affordable housing.

The Minister said this during a courtesy visit by the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Mal. Dikko Umaru Radda Phd, on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja.

He mentioned that as part of the Ministry’s stakeholder engagement drive, it will work closely with sub-national governments and provide the necessary policy and institutional support towards implementing housing reform initiatives in line with the Renewed Hope Vision of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for housing and urban development.

This includes the review of the Land Use Act of 1978 and the establishment of mortgage registries. He also emphasized the importance of adoption and passage of mortgage foreclosure laws by State Houses of Assemblies as key to creating an enabling environment for private sector investment in housing, stimulating economic growth, and providing our citizens with access to affordable housing.

Arc. Dangiwa urged the Katsina State Government to embrace the initiatives and deepen collaboration with key housing agencies, including the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, the Federal Housing Authority, and the Family Homes Funds, to increase access to affordable housing for Katsina indigenes.

“As a Ministry, we will provide all the necessary support to make this collaboration a success. Together, we can work towards increasing the stock of affordable housing ensuring that our people have access to quality homes that are well within their reach.”

The Minister also expressed readiness of the Ministry to partner with the Katsina State Government towards building new cities by leveraging Public Private Partnerships with local and international players and innovative housing finance mechanisms to improve the housing landscape in the state.

Also speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijani Gwarzo, said the Ministry is ready to explore areas of collaboration that would help Katsina State meet its affordable housing goals.

Earlier in his remarks, the Katsina State Governor, Mal. Dikko, described Dangiwa, as a thorough professional deeply committed to nation-building.

While congratulating the Ministers on their well-deserved appointments, the Governor noted that Arc Dangiwa has distinguished himself in service and has remained committed to the national project of socioeconomic development. "He is a gentleman to the core. He is very professional, and I'm confident that, together with the Minister of State, Alhaji Gwarzo, he will steer the ministry to great heights. If not for this important national assignment, we wouldn't have let him leave Katsina state," he said.

Speaking further, Governor Radda said the state is open to meaningful collaboration with the ministry in the areas of affordable housing and urban renewal, which are critical focuses of his administration. "We want to collaborate, and we want to learn from you. Subsequently, members of our staff will be coming to you to learn from the ministry's experience and expertise so that we can key into the transformation that the Minister is set to bring to the sector," he noted.

He urged the management and staff of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to provide the ministers with all the support and cooperation they need to deliver on their mandate, stressing that they should be proud that the President deemed it fit to send one of Nigeria's best brains to head the affairs of the ministry. "I can assure you that you're in good hands. Just cooperate with him, and you will definitely be proud of what will be achieved in the sector," he added.

Sep

14

2023

SPEECH BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ARC. AHMED MUSA DANGIWA, AT THE NIGERIA DIASPORA INVESTMENT SUMMIT (NDIS), ON TUESDAY, 14TH SEPTEMBER 2023

PROTOCOL
Vice President, Kashim Shettima Mustapha, GCON,
Excellences and Members of the Federal Executive Council,
Ministers and Permanent Secretaries,
Heads of Parastatals and Agencies,
Heads of International Organizations,
The Diaspora Community,
Members of Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations,
The Media and members of the Press,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

SPEECH

1.    I would like to begin by appreciating and acknowledging the innovative drive of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) under the able chairmanship of Hon. Abike Dabiri. We want to thank them for the good work that they are doing in actualizing the mandate of the Commission. Over the years we have seen NiDCOM champion several initiatives and programs that are helping our country leverage the massive potential of our diaspora for national development.

2.    This 6th Edition of the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit is only one of such strategic programs that are helping to deepen the engagement and participation of the diaspora in Nigeria’s economy across several sectors, including the housing and real estate sector. We have over 20million Nigerians in Diaspora remitting an average of over $24bn per annum.

3.    Madam Chairman, we commend your leadership, the support of your team and partners and pray for more strength and wisdom to tap this huge potential.

4.    Today, I am delighted to be here and to speak at this Summit under the theme “New Vistas, Aspirations, New Vision: The Diaspora and National Development”.

5.    This is because I believe it is important to communicate and assure the Diaspora that Nigeria is open for business in the housing and urban development space. That His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has a bold vision for the sector and is committed to backing it up with the necessary political will to break down all barriers that discourage investment in the sector.

6.    As the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, I have taken Mr. President’s vision and am determined to actualize it.  Our aim at the Ministry is to implement the most historic housing and urban sector reforms the country has ever witnessed. We want to drive through initiatives that will create an enabling environment for easier, safer, and profitable private sector investments in the sectors.

7.    A notable part of our housing sector reforms that is of particular interest to the Diaspora interested in investing in the housing and real estate sector is land reforms. What we envision is a streamlined land administration that cuts through the bureaucratic bottlenecks and systemic inefficiencies to ensure cost effective and efficient access to land for both individuals and investors in our country.

8.    Currently, we have a situation where the Land Use Act, which was enacted in 1978 has no complementary institution set up alongside it to provide the necessary framework, guidelines, and regulations for operationalizing it. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, we aim to fix this systemic anomaly. We are working to establish a National Land Commission. Part of their work will be to outline clear implementation guidelines for the Land Use Act to chart a new path of effective land administration in the country.

9.    Last week I met with the leadership of the Presidential Technical Committee on Land Reforms, Prof. Peter O. Adeniyi, where I committed to incorporating the comprehensive work, they have done over 14-years in our land reform strategy. As the renowned land reform scholar said, experience shows that a nation can never develop if it does not conduct land reform. This will be done under the Renewed Hope Action Plan for Housing.

10.    The second is the nationwide adoption of the Model Mortgage Foreclosure Law. The Model Mortgage Foreclosure Law (MMFL) provides contemporary provisions on the creation, registration, and enforcement of mortgages, along with remedies like foreclosure and the enforcement of mortgages on real properties and related purposes in Nigeria.

11.    As of date, the Model Mortgage Foreclosure Law (MMFL) has been passed in only four (4) states, including Lagos, Kaduna, Ekiti, and Nasarawa States. We aim to drive its passage in all the states of the federation as part of our efforts to ensure that investments in the housing and mortgage sector are protected.

12.    Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, we are also particular about boosting local manufacturing of building materials. Nigeria’s shortfall in the supply of quality housing stock presents a good opportunity for investors. To drive this, we aim to create an enabling environment for private sector players to produce building materials locally to lower cost, create jobs, grow the local economy, and ultimately ensure inclusive growth. To do this we are planning to establish six (6) manufacturing hubs – one in each of the six (6) geo-political zones in the country. The hubs will be provided with relevant facilities, including access roads, electricity, fit for purpose housing and relevant linkages for manufacturers to site their firms and operate. We are also proposing relevant incentives that will make it more profitable and rewarding for the private sector to manufacture building materials locally.

13.    Personally, I do not worry much about the challenges that we have in our country today and I encourage each one of us, especially our diaspora, to have that mindset. These challenges represent opportunities for us to make a difference and chart a more progressive path forward. And I think that is the essence of this Summit.

14.    The good news is that we now have a President who is a visionary, a problem solver, a game changer with the political will to get the right thing done.  And as a Ministry, we are willing to support Diaspora initiatives in the housing and urban development space as well as encourage partnerships with the Diaspora towards making a change in the housing and urban development narrative of our dear country.

15.    It is important for me state that when we think about the Diaspora, we are not only thinking of them as sources of finance to develop our country, but we also see them as Nigerians, who though abroad, are desirous of owning homes in Nigeria.

16.    It is in line with this thinking, that when I was the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), I developed the Diaspora Housing Mortgage Loan in collaboration with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

17.    The Diaspora Housing Mortgage Scheme is designed to enable Nigerians living overseas participate in the National Housing Fund (NHF) Scheme so they can access up to N50million to own their homes in Nigeria. Participants can access the loan via a National Housing Fund (NHF) loan, Rent-to-Own or the Individual Construction loan window. The terms are affordable and best market rates. This includes a single-digit interest rate of 9%, and a payback period of up to 10 years.

18.    As part of the initiative, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria will facilitate the construction of affordable housing units in major cities that meets the specifications of Nigerians in Diaspora.  

19.    I want to say that the FMBN is not the only agency under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development that is delving into catering to the housing needs of the Diaspora. The Federal Housing Authority (FHA)is also involved as part of the Ministry’s sector wide effort to cater to the Diaspora. They have undertaken to develop the Diaspora City Project under a Public Private Partnership comprising the FHA, The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the private sector. The Project is situated in Maitama 2, with over 675 hectares of land. The FCT administration has committed to opening the road and providing the relevant infrastructure. The Diaspora City project is designed to have bungalows, semi-and detached duplexes, and mansions to reflect its inclusive essence.

20.    Our overall goal is to ensure that as our brothers and sisters’ sojourn abroad, they also have a decent shelter over here in Nigeria to call their home.

21.    So, today, I want to say that I am excited to be the Minister of Housing and Urban Development to launch the Diaspora Mortgage Scheme, which I initiated as the MD/CE of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria on this auspicious occasion. Indeed, I consider it a positive twist of fate and I want to use this opportunity to urge Nigerians in the diaspora to seize the opportunity the Scheme affords them to actualize their dreams of owning affordable homes in Nigeria.   

22.    I am aware that the Mortgage scheme is set to be formally launched in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States soon, and it is my hope that the diaspora community would take full advantage of this opportunity and massively subscribe to reap its short and long-term benefits.

23.    As I conclude my speech, I would like to assure you of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s commitment to sustaining the necessary collaborations, partnerships, and engagements with all relevant Stakeholders in the Housing and Urban Development sector, as we all work together towards ensuring the success of the Diaspora Housing Mortgage scheme, providing affordable housing, and ensuring sustainable urban development for Nigerians.

24.    Thank you for your attention and may God bless Nigeria.  

Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa
Honourable Minister of Housing of Urban Development
14th November 2023

Sep

07

2023

Dangiwa Emerges Chairperson of Shelter Afrique AGM Bureau, Calls for Increased Capacity and Benefits to Member Nations

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has emerged as Chairperson of the 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) Bureau of Shelter Afrique, Africa’s largest housing finance institution. This was conveyed to the Minister by the institution’s Board Chairperson Dr Chii Akporji during an online meeting with officials of the institution on Tuesday 5th September 2023.

Dr Akporji noted that Dangiwa, as new AGM Bureau Chairperson, is expected to chair the 2023 AGM Bureau meeting scheduled for October 5 in Algiers. Dangiwa is also expected to kickstart the 2024 edition coming up in Kigali, where he would then hand over to the First Vice Chairman.

Dr Akporji also briefed the Minister on Shelter Afrique’s operations in Nigeria, such as the recent issuance of the local currency bond where the organization raised $100 million in a bid to enhance the housing ecosystem in the country, and as part of a medium-term loan programme to the tune of $250 million. “We also want to solicit the Honourable Minister’s kind intervention on the government of Nigeria to meet up with its outstanding capital subscription of $21 million… Even though it was approved during the previous administration, the funds were not released before the tenure ended”, she said.

The Shelter Afrique team also intimated the Minister on the Statutes Revision Process, which seeks to rework the documentation establishing Shelter Afrique since its inception in 1982. The new Statutes are known as the agreement for the Shelter Afrique Development Plan and is one of the reasons for the extraordinary Annual General Meeting coming up in October. “On this, we would like to seek the Honourable Minister’s firm support for the approval of the agreement document, which is necessary for consolidating the gains made so far in placing Shelter Afrique on a firm growth trajectory”, she added.

Responding, Dangiwa thanked Shelter Afrique for the honour bestowed on him and pledged to ensure a continued firm collaboration between Nigeria and the institution. He further commended the institution for the restructuring being undertaken to transform it from its current state into the Shelter Afrique Development Bank.

“It is my belief that this restructuring will put the institution on the proper pedestal to deliver on its mandate of improving the housing ecosystem across Africa. Despite being the second-largest contributor, Nigeria has not really benefitted from Shelter Afrique, and I think this is the case with many other contributing nations as well. I believe this is the reason for this restructuring, and I’m sure it will help to enhance the bank’s capacity and improve its benefits to member nations,” Dangiwa said.

The Minister added that the institution’s restructuring will also lead to increased financial capacity and expanded mandate, improved risk management, enhanced sustainability, and increased access and opportunities in the capital market. He stated that the vision of the institution is in line with the vision of the Tinubu-led administration, which is to grow the economy and improve the welfare of Nigerians.

“We are a new Administration committed to the transformation and advancement of our country, Nigeria, and by extension the African continent.  I therefore assure you of our commitment to deliver on the expectations from Nigeria as we move forward together in the course of championing development in the African continent,” he added.

Shelter Afrique is the only pan-African finance institution that exclusively supports the development of housing and urban development in Africa. The Institution has 44 member countries and two African Finance Multinational Institutions as stakeholders. Rwanda will be taking over from Nigeria as chair of the AGM scheduled for Kigali in 2024 and Algeria in 2025.

Sep

05

2023

Dangiwa Positioning Housing Ministry for Optimal Housing Delivery

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Architect Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, FNIA has said that his ministry is being positioned to function optimally in the delivery of housing to Nigerians.

Arc. Dangiwa spoke when he received members of the Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA) in his office, Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

" We are positioning the ministry to perform optimally to function as the organ that can provide policy directions to housing sector,” the minister remarked.

He mentioned that most of the housing policies are under review in order to ensure that they are in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in growing the economy and creating job opportunities for Nigerians.

The minister also noted that reviewing these policies would create enabling environment that could lead to economic growth, adding, that, it would be a catalyst for job creation and lifting Nigerians out of poverty.

On the housing collapse that has become ubiquitous in Nigeria, the minister assured them that the ministry would look into it, noting that, with the collective inputs of the professionals in the built environment and State Commissioners of housing, the ministry will come up with policies on how to curtail the menace.

Speaking earlier, the President of Nigeria Institute of Architects, Arc. Enyi Ben-Eboh, listed areas impeding the practice of architecture in Nigeria which he urged the Minster to look into.

Arc Ben-Eboh mentioned amongst others;

* Regulating the influx of building materials by working with Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to create a unit that will solely deal on building materials coming into the country;

* Reviewing the National Housing Policy in a way that it would be beneficial to Architects;

* Soliciting for a policy that could be making funding for housing on the " first line of charge';

* The Ministry of Housing to come up with policy to regulate the activities of  private developers in Nigeria;

*  Appropriate and befitting career placement for Architects in the Ministry to ensure professional development and speedy career progression.

The NIA President also urged the minister to ensure that Architects are critically involved in the National Development Plan (2021-2025) to help the federal government to achieve the mandate of providing 500, 000 - 1 million houses yearly.

The NIA President also expressed his desire to resuscitate the regular meeting of Chief Architects of Nigeria which he said  would enable positive practice of Architecture in the country.

Arc. Eboh further proposed the establishment of the Office of Architect General of the Federation to oversee the members and their operation in Nigeria.

Aug

25

2023

Dangiwa Assumes Office, Pledges Bold Vision for Affordable Housing and Urban Development

On Monday, August 21, 2023, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa officially assumed office as the Minister for Housing and Urban Development, pledging to realize President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold vision for housing and urban renewal.

Addressing top ministry officials, heads of agencies, and staff, Arc. Dangiwa underscored the important role of the Ministry in ensuring all Nigerian have access to decent, quality, and affordable housing while fostering livable communities.

To execute this mandate effectively, the Minister said he will prioritize creating an enabling environment to encourage increased private sector participation and investment, along with the formulation of policies that empower agencies supervised by the ministry to optimize their performance according to their designated functions.

"I believe that the responsibility of this Ministry is to create an enabling environment and formulate policies that empower agencies under its supervision to perform their functions optimally. This will be a central focus of my leadership, and I urge you all to work in alignment with this vision," he declared.

Acknowledging the challenges arising from rapid population growth and increasing housing demands, Arc. Dangiwa pledged to seize these challenges as opportunities for growth and progress. He committed to championing strategic housing reforms to dismantle barriers hindering housing and urban development.

Notably, he disclosed plans to work closely with the National Assembly to review relevant laws to streamline land and housing administration and increase investments in the housing sector.

He also said he will prioritize the N500 billion recapitalization of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), to enable the bank offer more affordable mortgage loans and foster homeownership.

The minister also revealed plans to accelerate the reform of the FMBN and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) so they can have the necessary capacity, and the technological edge to deliver world class services to Nigerians.

He additionally pledged to embrace innovative financing solutions for housing construction and to collaborate with relevant institutions to secure funding for large-scale affordable housing projects nationwide.

The minister said he unveil a comprehensive Strategic Housing and Urban Development Blueprint in the coming days. This blueprint is expected to outline detailed priorities, initiatives, reforms, and plans to reshape the nation's housing landscape.

May

23

2023

President Buhari Commissions National Housing Project in Gusau, Zamfara State

President Muhammadu Buhari has commissioned  a 80 housing units in Damba, Gusau, Zamfara state, Monday,  May 22nd, 2023.

The President was represented at the occassion by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajia Sa'adia Umar Faruk.

He described the completion of the project as an example of the fulfilment of change which his administration promised the people of Nigeria. 

Buhari also explained that the desire to improve the human condition of the citizens was responsible for the decision to award the housing contracts to the Micro, Small and Medium size businesses, in order to promote a value chain of opportunities for economic activities, provide employment and improve the conditions of the ordinary citizen.

Accordingly, the President stated that through the housing programme his administration has redeemed the promise made by previous administration to the members of the 1994 Super Eagles that won the African Cup of Nations that year. 

The Governor of Zamfara State, Dr  Bello  Matawalle  who was represented by the Speaker, Zamfara State House of Assembly, Honourable Nasiru Muazu Magarya, expressed gratitude to President Buhari for initiating and executing the housing project in Zamfara state. 

In his address, the Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Raji Fashola, represented by the Director Construction, Department of Public Building and Housing Development,  Architect Bashir Usman disclosed that the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing had delivered similar projects in 35 states of the Federation with the support of state governors.

The Minister said that 40 housing units comprising; 2 units of 1 bedroom; 24 units of 2 bedrooms and 14 units of 3 bedroom bungalows were being handed over today, pointing out that the houses were designed after a survey was conducted to ascertain the needs and  type of houses Nigerians desired. 

Accordingly, he explained that the survey revealed that there was a prevalent need for bungalows in the Northern part and flats in the southern part of Nigeria.

In his welcome address, the Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Folorunso Esan who was represented by the Zonal Director of North West, National Housing Programme, (NHP) Builder Emmanuel Hangerior said the NHP initiative since 1996 has engaged over 1,500 building contractors and over 150,00 and 55,000 direct and indirect jobs had been created respectively. 

In a goodwill message His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Bello OFR, the Emir of Gusau , thanked President Buhari for bringing the project to his domain

May

17

2023

Remarks Of H.E Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN At The Commissioning Of FMBN-I-Connect Cooperative Housing Estate, Transekulu, Enugu, Enugu State On Tuesday 16th May 2023

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen:

One Hundred and Fifty Units of Housing only symbolize our Government’s very deep footprint in Housing Provision in Enugu State.

These 150 Units are part of a 404 Housing Unit Provision in Enugu State all of which have been completed.

The 404 Units represent yet another part of a larger number 1,520 units in 9 projects all of which have been completed except 3 projects.

This is part of the multi-pronged response of our Government to the challenges of multi-dimensional poverty.

A total of 1,520 new home owners in one state of Nigeria deserves attention because it represents change.

This is proof that the determination to lift people out of poverty is real.

No matter the size of the challenge and the number of people involved, a commitment such as this FMBN-I-Connect housing project, that is faithfully implemented, begins to chip away, and replace problems with solutions.

A few days ago, President Muhammadu Buhari personally opened a 748-unit Housing Estate in Zuba, Federal Capital Territory.

In the weeks and months before now, Directors of the FMBN have been doing exactly the same thing in their various estates across Nigeria.

Today on behalf of the Federal Government, the train of prosperity stops in Enugu to create 404 new home owners.

To them I say congratulations and bye-bye to poverty.

But I must tell you that these are not the only beneficiaries.

Surveyors, Architects, Construction companies, their employees, artisans, suppliers, transporters and many more involved in the construction section of the economy have benefitted directly and indirectly.

In all, well over a thousand individuals and seventy different small businesses were involved here.

Indisputably, whether President Buhari meets these people or not, and it is not likely he can meet all of them, his policies, programmes and projects have met them at their point of need.

New policy reforms have also recently been implemented with regard to title documents by digitizing the Federal Lands Registry.

After scanning 50,000 files of over 2.4 million pages, the first set of e-C of Os were presented last week Friday 12th May 2023.

This is another measure of prosperity because land with title has more value than land without.

Furthermore, our processes which used to take between 30-90 days can now be completed in 24 hours if all requirements are provided.

This is also a departure from poverty if you agree that time is money.

Of course, it follows that these title documents will become documents of critical economic inclusion as collateral for access to credit by way of mortgages or other means.

These are indisputably solid building blocks of prosperity against poverty.

A lot has been done and is being done with regard to housing provision by State Governments and the Private Sector.

While that work continues, it is my pleasure to acknowledge what FMBN and their developers have done here and elsewhere and to commission this Estate.

May

13

2023

Fashola Unveils Business Process Automation of Certificates of Occupancy for Federal Lands

The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, CON, has unveiled the Business Process Automation of Certificate of Occupancy (eCofO) for Federal Lands.

The event took place at the Ministry's Conference room, Mabushi, Abuja.

Fashola, in his keynote address, said that the initiative was another layer and level of technological advancement in the country and   urged the ministry to sustain and maintain it to the expected next level.

He explained that manual processing of application for and signing of C.of.O which used to be cumbersome and time - consuming would stop with the introduction of this digital platform, there by ending the era of carrying several  bags of files of C of O for manual endorsement at home even on weekends.

"Our digital platform is meant to make life better, the thing that used to take three months will now be available in 24 hours. I, as the head of the Ministry, will stop carrying Ghana most go filled with C of O’s from Abuja to Lagos or my house, I can now sign many of them on the system within some hours. I think that's where Nigeria as the biggest black Nation should be." He remarked.

The Minister also revealed that about 2,276 files have been digitalized.

In his remarks, the Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Folorunso Esan, said that the project was awarded on February 17, 2022 and commended   the Ministry for the successful implementation of the initiative.

He confirmed that the project will boost public consumption and also enable easy payments.

The Head of Department and Director, Lands & Housing Development, Mr. Felix Appah, said that the process will enthrone transparency in the activities of land certification and ownership which will greatly serve as legal collateral to such land owners in accessing loans.

Accordingly, Mr. Appah listed its benefits to government as; improving efficiency in registration, prevents the issuance of counterfeit C of O, increase revenue to government, having a central digital repository for all document, reduce process time for C.of.O applications, digital archiving with index, Reduce storage and printing costs amongst others.

In addition, Nigeria, implementing an electronic land titling is in line with international best practices in land administration.

Highlight of the event was presentation of C.of.O to some of the recipients.

May

09

2023

Shelter Afrique Is Stronger Than What I Inherited In 2016 – Fashola

The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, CON has said ‘I feel very proud today to say that Shelter Afrique that is hosting you today is a much stronger company with better version than what I inherited in 2016 “he made this remark at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Shelter Afrique at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

Mr. Fashola said “By the collective actions of our member states, our development partners and our Board Management staff, we have surmounted very difficult challenges, some of which threatened the continuous existence of this company at a time.”

The Minister said, there was a time they were looking to go back to African Union to wind down the company but today, the company stands, and it is better positioned.

The Minister of State for Works and Housing , Hon. Umar Ibrahim El -Yakub in his closing remarks at the event said “ The Nigerian Housing and Built Environment Industry has a lot of potential to be explored by the Public , Private and other relevant stakeholders which can only be achieved through  partnership and collaborations between the relevant institutions locally and internationally.”

The President, who was represented by  the Minister of Finance ,  Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed while reading the president’s address,  said “ Permit me to commend the roles played by the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing being the immediate host of this AGM , regarding the mandates and targets issued by the Presidency”  .She said Shelter Afrique was  one of the investments  government  has bond in the built industry.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Mohammed Musa Bello CON at the event, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA Mr. Adesola Olusade, said “the desire of every working person to own their own homes is a known fact and fundamental’’ He hoped that the outcome of the 42nd Annual General Meeting and Symposium of Shelter Afrique would address the critical needs of housing in Nigeria.

The Honourable Minister of National Housing & Social Amenities, Republic of Zimbabwe, Honourable Daniel Garwe, commended the effort of the Nigerian Government for creating the enabling environment for the AGM.

Mr. Garwe said “Fellow Africans we are now seated here in the Hilton Hotel reflecting on our successes and failures since the last AGM hosted in Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, our Parliament is expected to compliment the efforts exerted.”

The Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Shelter Afrique, Dr. Chil Akporji in her remarks thanked the Nations that have supported Shelter Afrique saying “we are grateful for the continued financial backing we get from nations that share our mission, and we wish to reaffirm our commitment to the vision of decent and affordable housing in Africa”. She also said that they were exploring practical ways to improve impact on housing markets across member countries”.

Shelter Afrique Managing Director Mr. Thierno Habib Hann in his welcome address said “the planned symposium demonstrates Shelter Afrique’s commitment to improving housing and the built environment practices in the business.

We expect to leave the symposium having defined the Political, Social and Economic strategies needed to enhance African's attainment of affordable housing and urban development targets.

“Thierno said “understanding the incentive mechanism confronting the key players in the housing value chain, we can then discover how to easily supply adequate and reasonably priced housing for everyone, even though the cards are stacked against us.”

The high point of the event was the presentation of plaque to President Muhammadu Buhari in recognition of his Government's contributions to Shelter Afrique.

Feb

06

2023

President Buhari Commissions Federal Secretariat Lafia

...Names it after Justice Sidi Bage

...On this project, we are proud to say we have delivered-- Fashola

The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR has commissioned the Federal Secretariat Lafia, Nasarawa over the weekend.

The newly commissioned Secretariat complex which was built by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing has also been named after a renowned Jurist and Legal personality, a respected Royal Father, a retired Honourable Justice of the Supreme Court and the current Emir of Lafai and Chairman of Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs. HRH. SIDI BAGE

Welcoming Mr. President, the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN said that upon the Ministry's recommendation, Mr. President approved the naming of the edifice after the retired Justice of the Supreme court, His Royal Highness, Sidi Bage. He added that it was in commemoration and laudable contribution of his public service activities especially in the Judiciary.

According to Fashola the conference room of the complex also got the approval of Mr. President to be named after a very prominent Nasarawa State indigene in the person of late Mrs. Maimuna Katai for her hard work, courage, simplicity and honesty.

Speaking of the complex, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola said that it is sitting on a 6,702 square meters of land and that it could accommodate 2000 to 2,300 staff in the 402 offices. He added that it has car park with the capacity to accommodate 300 cars and also other facilities.

According to the Minister, the socio- economic impact of the project includes the creation of small businesses around the facility such as - Food Vendors, POS Kiosks and increased value of landed properties in Bulka Sidi Environs among others.

Moreso, the Minister stressed that these Federal Secretariats are Federal Government symbols and images in the states. They are indeed National Monuments that bring all Federal Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) under one conducive working environment for improved productive and enhanced service delivery to the people of the state where they are sited.

While thanking Mr. President for entrusting the Ministry with the project, he said: " We are proud to say that on this project, we have delivered."

He acknowledged the contribution of the National Assembly for appropriating funding for the project. Also, he commended the State Governor, Engr Abdullahi Sule as well as the past Governor of the State Tanko Al-Makura for providing the peaceful and safe environment for the contractor to deliver the project.

The President was accompanied to the commissioning ceremony by the Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawal, Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Yaya Bello, the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr David Umahi, the Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the Honourable Minister of Environment representing Nasarawa State St the Federal Executive Council, Barrister Abdullahi Mohammed amongst others.

Jan

19

2023

Fashola Performs Ground Breaking of 116 FISH Housing Programme Units in Gwagwalada, FCT

Works and Housing Minister, Babatunde Fashola has performed the official ground breaking ceremony of 116 housing units under the Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) Programme in Gwagwalada town of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Thursday, January 19th, 2023.

In his capacity as Special Guest of the occasion, in his address, the Minister described Civil Servants as Critical Component of Development in a Nation, that is why the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is paying special attention to their welfare needs in terms of Housing.

The Minister who spoke in parables, reeled out many policy efforts being demonstrated by the present administration, targeted towards uplifting the welfare of Civil and Public Servants in Nigeria in order to make them comfortable to perform optimally.

He listed among others; the Federal Government's support for States to clear their salaries liabilities; civil servants salary review; Pension reforms, and the removal of equity contribution of the Federal Mortgage Bank housing loan of below N5 million for Civil Servants.

The Minister also commended the leadership of the Ministry's public building and housing directorate for their commitment in securing the land and development of the site master plan and infrastructure that has enabled developers' interest for investment.

Accordingly, he assured the Gwagwalada community of government’s continued effort in developing the area, citing the recent tax credit policy investment on infrastructure, and happily the Abaji- Lokoja road is among the beneficiaries.

Earlier in her keynote address, the Head of Service of the Fedration , Dr Folashade Yemi Esan thanked the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing under His Excellency, Babatunde Fashola for graciously providing the expansive land in a prime area spanning 5 hectares  .

Dr Folashade described the ground breaking event as a watershed moment in accelerating attainment of government's agenda of ensuring the welfare of civil servants through the provision of affordable housing.

Accordingly, she said, the FISH Programme was conceptualized as a vehicle to address the current housing deficit faced by civil servants consequent upon monetization policy that saw the selling of  government's quarters across the country.

Dec

17

2022

FG Commissions National Housing Programme in Kwara State.

The Federal Government has commissioned Phase One of the National Housing Programme in Asa Dam, Road Ilorin in Kwara state.

President Muhammadu Buhari who commissioned the housing programme was represented by the Honourable Minister of Information and Culture; Alhaji Lai Mohammed stated that the housing project was one of the projects undertaken by this Administration.

President Buhari said that the completion of the project is part of the fulfillment of the promise of change to improve the human condition made by the All Progressive Congress.

He disclosed that the micro, small and medium businesses that drive the economy were given the contract to build the houses and through them, the value chain of business activities witnessed a tremendous boost that impacted positively on ordinary Nigerians.

The Kwara State Governor, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq who was represented by the Kwara State Commissioner for Housing, Architect Aliyu Muhammadu expressed appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Works and Housing Minister, Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN CON, for making Kwara State one of the beneficiaries of the Federal Government Housing project.

The Governor also acknowledged the positive trickling down effect of the project in terms of job creation and long value chain of building construction and the general economic benefits to the people of the state.

The Governor further said, " There is therefore no doubt about the unprecedented investment of the President in critical infrastructure across every part of Nigeria such as roads, bridges, housing, railways, water, education, power, energy and health infrastructure which all progressive minds will ever remain grateful for."

The Works and Housing Minister, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN who was represented by the Director, Public Building and Housing Development, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Architect Solomon Labafilo informed the people that the Federal Government through his Ministry has delivered housing projects in 35 states of the federation.

He added that the completed housing project being commissioned has 76 units of houses comprising 4 units of one bedroom, 48 units of two bedroom, 20 units of three bedroom and 4 units of three-bedroom bungalows.

The Minister said the design of the houses was determined by the outcome of a national survey which revealed the prevalent need for bungalows in the North and flats in the South.  

He assured the people that the houses are offered to members of the general public without discrimination by opening the National Housing Portal, https://nhp.worksandhousing.gov.ng to ensure that interested Nigerian citizens are not inhibited by artificial obstacles and promised that allocations would be made on the basis of those who apply and pay first.

The Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Mr. Bashir Nura Alkali represented by the Ministry’s Director of Survey and Zonal Director Housing North Central, Quantity Surveyor Pemi Temitope revealed that over 1200 building contractors have been engaged under phases 1,2 and 3 of the programme since its inception in 2016 and over 14,500 direct and 50,140 indirect jobs have been created.

He added that during this period, the Ministry had undertaken the construction of over 6,000 housing units in 45 sites out of which 2,465 units have been completed in 35 states and the FCT.

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr.  Sulu Gambari represented by Alhaji Kayode Sadiq, the Alaga Owode, thanked President Muhammadu Buhari and prayed God to continue to bless, guide and protect him. He also expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, CON.

The Community Youth Leader of Asa Dam, Mr. Dayo Atolagbe expressed the profound appreciation of the community to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Kwara State Government and the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing for locating the project in their community.

He further appreciated the government for the good roads that were provided to link the housing estate and security maintenance in the area.

Oct

17

2023

REMARKS BY HON. MINISTER OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT AT THE COURTESY VISIT BY NIGERIA INSTITUTE OF SURVEYORS AT THE MINISTRY HEADQUARTERS IN ABUJA

Protocols,

Distinguished Members of the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors,

Good afternoon, ladies, and gentlemen.

* First, I would like to express my appreciation to the President of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Mr. Shonubi Michael Olayemi and members of the Executive Council of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors for this visit. 

* Your presence here today is not only a gesture of goodwill. It is also a testament to the importance of collaboration between the government and professional bodies in the collective goal to deliver decent and affordable housing to Nigerians and ensuring sustainable urban development.

* Since we assumed office, we have been meeting with several other professional bodies. This is because we believe that these stakeholder engagements are vital ingredients for the policies that we need to drive our reform agenda for housing and urban development in line with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Vision.

* So, for us at the Ministry, we would like to consider this visit not just as another routine visit of the Institute to a new Minister, but the beginning of a more impactful and result-oriented partnership between the Ministry and the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors. 

* Your profession plays a key role in the delivery of affordable housing. Your ability to manage costs, optimize resources, and ensure quality and compliance directly impacts the feasibility of affordable housing projects. By leveraging your expertise, we can create sustainable, well-built, and affordable housing solutions for communities, promoting social development and economic progress.

* I have taken note of all the pertinent issues that you would like the Ministry to help resolve during my tenure. I assure you that my team and I are committed to working with you to address these concerns. 

* One of the central pillars of my tenure as the Minister of Housing and Urban Development will be the prioritization of affordable housing. It is a matter of utmost importance that we address the housing needs of the 80 percent of Nigeria's population who fall within the no-income, low to medium earners category. These hardworking citizens are equally deserving of living in decent, well-planned homes and neighborhoods that reflect the principles of inclusivity and fairness. Doing so requires affordable housing design concepts based on the most efficient bills of quantities. 

* In my first week in office, I set up an Affordable Housing Design Committee to develop more efficient design options that fit the income profiles of Nigerians within the low- and medium-income bracket. Our Ministry professionals have done a great job and we ll like to have your comments before we unveil them to the public. Our goal is to come up with the most efficient, workable and sustainable affordable designs that will help us deliver on our mandate. 

* In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, we are committed to creating housing opportunities that cater to the needs of this significant portion of our population. We will work diligently to make affordable housing a reality, ensuring that every Nigerian has access to quality homes that they can afford. This initiative will not only improve the living conditions of our people but also stimulate economic growth and job creation in the housing and construction sectors.

* But before I conclude, it’s important to emphasize that the responsibility for promoting and enforcing discipline within the construction and building industry does not rest solely on the government. The Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors, as a professional body, also has a crucial role to play in this regard.

* I urge the Institute to explore all measures within its charter to promote and enforce discipline among its registered members. This includes setting and upholding high ethical and professional standards, conducting regular audits and inspections, and taking appropriate disciplinary actions against those who engage in substandard practices. By doing so, the Institute will not only protect the reputation of its profession but also contribute significantly to the safety and quality of construction in Nigeria.

* As we move forward, let us remember that the future of our nation lies in the strength of our infrastructure and the well-being of our citizens. Together, we can build communities, towns and cities that are safe, sustainable, and inclusive, ensuring that every Nigerian has access to decent housing and improved living conditions.

* In conclusion, I would like to thank the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors once again for this courtesy visit, and I look forward to our partnership and the positive impact we can collectively make on the housing and urban development landscape of Nigeria.

* Thank you, and may God bless our efforts and our beloved country, Nigeria.

Oct

09

2023

Dangiwa Successfully Steers Shareholder Approval for Transformation of Shelter Afrique to Shelter Afrique Development Bank

In a landmark achievement, the Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Architect Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, and Chairman of the 42nd Shelter Afrique Annual General Meeting (AGM) Bureau, played a pivotal role in steering the successful transformation of Shelter Afrique into Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB). The milestone was realized during the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, on October 4-5, 2023.
Under the chairmanship Arc. Dangiwa, the EGM witnessed constructive discussions and resolutions on critical issues, culminating in the approval of Shelter Afrique's revised Company Statutes by its esteemed shareholders. This historic approval marks a significant milestone, paving the way for Shelter Afrique’s evolution into Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB). As a Development Finance Institution, ShafDB is poised to significantly enhance its financing capacity for affordable housing projects across Africa.

Arc. Dangiwa, presiding over the meeting, commended Shelter Afrique's Board and Management for their dedication to the organization’s restructuring. He acknowledged the collective efforts invested in this monumental continental task, recognizing the progress towards building pre-meeting sharerholder consensus on knotty issues by the competent leadership of Board Chairman, Dr. Chii Akporji, and Managing Director, Mr. Thierno-Habib Hann.

In his address, Architect Dangiwa emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among shareholders, underscoring their pivotal role in addressing Africa's housing challenge. He urged for a renewed sense of purpose, dedication, and trust among shareholders to work collectively towards overcoming the housing deficit that has plagued the continent for decades.

“We must be humbled by the progress Shelter Afrique has made in over 40 years, and we must resolve to set aside all tolerable ancillary issues. It is our collective responsibility to fix Africa’s housing problem, and this requires sincerity of purpose, hard work, and trust,” Architect Dangiwa stated.

The transformation of Shelter Afrique into Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) heralds a new era of accelerated progress, reflecting the organization’s commitment to addressing Africa's housing challenges with renewed vigor and determination.

About Shelter Afrique Development Bank:

Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) is a leading Development Finance Institution dedicated to providing financing solutions for affordable housing projects across Africa. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, ShafDB aims to transform the housing sector and improve the lives of millions of people in Africa.

Oct

04

2023

Dangiwa Urges Shareholders to Focus on Strengthening Shelter Afrique for Rapid Affordable Housing Delivery in Africa As EGM Kicks Off In Algiers

The 2023 Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of Shelter Afrique commenced today at Sheraton Club des Pins Resort (Hotel Sheraton Alger) in Algiers, Algeria, with a resounding call from the Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Nigeria, Arc. Ahmed M. Dangiwa. The Minister, who is the Chairman of the Company’s 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) Bureau, emphasized the importance of shareholder unity and commitment to the company's mission to provide affordable housing solutions across Africa.

In his opening address, Arc. Dangiwa emphasized the significance of the 2023 EGM and its role in shaping Shelter Afrique's future. He commended the company's leadership, recognizing the remarkable work of the Board and Management Team in navigating the organization toward growth, profitability, and a more substantial impact on housing development across the continent.

“Today, we are convening this EGM to discuss and take decisions on the pending matters. Through objective discussions, we are optimistic that we would conclude and approve the Company’s revised Statutes. Doing so will mark a momentous milestone and would lay the foundation for a new, innovative, and impact-driven Shelter Afrique,” he said.

The Minister extended his gratitude to all Ministers and shareholders for their commitment, willingness to support reforms and various contributions towards strengthening Shelter Afrique's position as a leader in the delivery of affordable housing in Africa. He applauded their collective resolve to address Africa's housing challenges and the noble shared commitment to the people they serve in their respective countries.

Highlighting Shelter Afrique's recent challenges between 2020 and 2021, Dangiwa reported substantial progress in the revision of the Company Statutes. He mentioned the engagement of a reputable law firm and numerous bilateral and multilateral reviews, resulting in broad shareholder consensus on key issues in the Company’s revised Statutes. He noted that the EGM's primary objective was to finalize and approve these revised Statutes, setting the stage for a renewed, innovative, and impactful Shelter Afrique.

Furthermore, the Hon. Minister called upon all shareholders to embrace the spirit of objectivity, reason, and compromise during discussions, always with a focus on strengthening Shelter Afrique's capacity to facilitate the rapid delivery of affordable housing solutions.

“As we begin this EGM, I want to urge all shareholders to embrace the spirit of objectivity, reason, and compromise, always focusing on what will help strengthen the Company towards achieving its goal of igniting rapid delivery of affordable housing,” he added.

Additionally, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government and citizens of Algeria for their warm hospitality. He expressed confidence that the outcomes of the EGM would position Shelter Afrique as a dynamic, innovative, and impactful housing development finance institution. One that would have the institutional and financial prowess to significantly contribute to Africa's housing solutions.

Shelter Afrique is a pan-African finance institution that supports the development of housing and urban development in Africa. A partnership of 44 African Governments, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Africa Reinsurance Corporation (Africa-Re), Shelter Afrique builds strategic partnerships and offers a host of products and related services to support the efficient delivery of affordable housing and commercial real estate.

Sep

22

2023

Dangiwa to Deepen Collaboration with Nigerian Institute of Town Planners Toward Sustainable Urban Planning

The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has assured the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) of increased collaboration to bolster efforts towards a more sustainable housing and urban planning environment. The Minister gave this assurance when he hosted the leadership of the institute on Thursday, September 21st, 2023, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

Arc. Dangiwa stressed the importance of effective urban and regional planning, noting that the institute's input and its members' expertise will be vital in the ministry’s efforts to build livable, decent, and sustainable cities and communities. "As you are all aware, our great nation is at a critical juncture in its history. With a rapidly growing population and urbanization trends, the challenges facing our cities and towns have become more complex and demanding. It is evident that proper urban planning and housing development are key to addressing these challenges effectively," he said.

He further emphasized the essential role the institute plays in shaping the physical, social, and economic development of cities and communities, noting that "expertise in spatial planning, environmental management, and infrastructure development is critical in ensuring that our urban areas are well-planned and able to meet the needs of our citizens."

The delegation, led by the institute’s president, Town Planner Nathaniel Atebije, highlighted the challenges confronting the institute and the sector. They called on the Minister to support the delivery of specific demands, including facilitating the completion and adoption of the Revised National Urban Development Policy, as well as the National Physical Planning Standards. They also urged the implementation of the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law to guide physical development and the establishment of relevant institutions like the National Urban and Regional Planning Commission.

Atebije also noted that "presenting an executive bill to amend areas of the law that do not have sufficient provisions for effective enforcement to make the law more contemporary, particularly with the possibility of putting physical planning matters on the concurrent list in the constitution, is an important step to take." The NITP boss further urged the Ministry to embark on urgent and rigorous capacity building for professionals to enhance the performance of their job.

One of the institution's demands is the creation of an agency to collect and analyze data on housing to assess the deficit in quantity and quality and facilitate effective planning and implementation of the housing policy.

Responding, the Minister assured that most of the issues relating to the legal and regulatory frameworks of urban and physical planning raised by the institution are already being examined by the relevant departments, along with partner agencies and bodies concerned with such matters. "For instance, we’re already working with the National Population Commission to conduct a housing census to determine the quality and quantity of houses in Nigeria so that we can ascertain the true situation. We do not believe there’s a need to create another agency for that purpose, as it would further increase the cost of governance, which this administration is trying to reduce. Besides, that would amount to duplication of responsibilities.

“On the issue of placing the law in the concurrent list, we’re already working with the states to make that a reality. However, it also depends on the cooperation of the National Assembly, which we’re confident we will receive. I can assure you that the other issues you raised, including those related to the implementation of the Urban and Regional Planning law, undue tenure elongation of your council members, and the recruitment and training of professionals, are matters we are taking seriously as a ministry, and they will be resolved in due time," Dangiwa added.

The delegation also took the opportunity to invite the Honourable Minister to the institute’s National Conference scheduled for October 23rd to 27th, 2023, in Asaba, Delta State, where he is scheduled to deliver a goodwill message. The Minister, accepting their invitation, promised to work closely with the NITP to bring about meaningful development in the built sector.

Sep

15

2023

Dangiwa Commends Retired Staff for Decades of Dedicated Service

The Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa delivered heartfelt remarks at a special retirement send forth dinner held on Thursday, September 14, 2023. The event celebrated the careers of two senior staff members Arc. Zomona Labafilo and Builder Hangeior Emmanuel who had attained the retirement age.

Speaking at the event, the hon. minister expressed his appreciation for the retirees' commitment and sacrifice in the service of their country. He hailed them as hardworking individuals who had contributed to the ministry's mission over the course of many decades.

The Minister also shared a personal connection with some of the retirees, recounting that they were not just colleagues but also longtime friends. Many of them had been his classmates during their university years and had been a source of support and encouragement throughout his career.

Offering words of encouragement to the retirees as they embarked on this new chapter of their lives, the Minister emphasized that retirement is not the end but a new beginning. He urged them to explore new horizons, pursue their personal passions, and enjoy the well-deserved fruits of their labor.

The Minister wished them joy, fulfillment, and relaxation in their retirement, expressing confidence that the skills, wisdom, and experience they had accumulated over their careers would continue to serve them well in their future endeavors.

The send-forth dinner was attended by the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Alhaji Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, the Permanent Secretary Mahmuda Mamman, colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, many of whom showered encomiums and goodwill messages to the retirees.

Sep

11

2023

Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development Commences Collaboration with National Population Commission (NPC) to Establish Credible Housing Data

The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has initiated a landmark collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC) to address one of Nigeria's most critical data challenges: accurately assessing the extent of the housing deficit in the country.

In a meeting held on Monday, September 11, 2023, the Honorable Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, welcomed a delegation from the National Population Commission, led by Chairman Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, to formalize this groundbreaking partnership.

For years, Nigeria has struggled with conflicting and unverified figures regarding its housing deficit, with estimates ranging from 17 million to 28 million. These discrepancies have not only been a source of embarrassment but also an obstacle to effective policymaking and strategic planning.

Arc. Dangiwa emphasized the need for accurate, credible, verifiable, and scientifically sound data on the housing deficit and the living conditions of homes across Nigeria. Such data, he said, is essential to develop effective strategies to tackle the housing shortage and ensure that every Nigerian has access to safe and affordable housing.

The collaboration with the National Population Commission, particularly in the context of the upcoming national census, represents a pivotal step in this effort. The census provides a unique opportunity to gather precise and comprehensive data on the housing needs of Nigeria's population.

The term "housing deficit" refers to the inadequacy in the supply of affordable and suitable housing units to meet the needs of the population, reflecting the gap between housing demand and available, safe, and affordable housing stock.

Minister Dangiwa emphasized that the initiative goes beyond mere numbers; it is about improving the quality of life for Nigerians. Adequate housing and proper living conditions are fundamental human rights that contribute to social stability and economic development.

The collaboration with the National Population Commission will involve the design and implementation of survey instruments tailored to address housing-related questions. By working together, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and the NPC aim to establish accurate and credible data on the housing deficit, providing a solid foundation for housing policy design and planning.

The Minister extended his appreciation to Chairman Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra for his dedication to this cause and expressed anticipation for productive discussions and collaboration in the coming months.

Sep

05

2023

Works Minister Tasks Contract Management Team for More Effort at Implementation Stage.

The Hon. Minister of Works Engr. David Nweze Umahi CON, has tasked the Contract Management Team (CMT) for the Value-Added Concession (VAC) Category of the Highways Development & Management Initiative (HDMI) to work hard and double their effort at this critical stage of Contract Implementation.

He made this remark while inaugurating the CMT at the Federal Ministry of Works Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

The Minister said “I understand that it has been three (3) years of hard work by the Project Delivery Team (PDT) members of the Highways Development & Management Initiative (HDMI), most of whom are now being transmuted as members of the Contract Management Team (CMT). We expect that the same hard work you brought to bear on the Contract Preparatory Stages would be doubled at this critical stage of Contract Implementation.”

Umahi, similarly said “the idea of including Senior Executive Management representation from each Concessionaire on the CMT is to ensure seamless workings and interactions. I, therefore, I wish to advise the Concessionaires to accord the CMT, which they are already a part of the maximum cooperation that is needed. As we are aware, the Value for Money (VFM) generated through PPPs depends on the quality of the private partner and the government’s contract management systems and teams”.

The Hon. Minister concluded “To the Government side, please, accord this assignment the utmost attention it deserves and not be in the erroneous belief that these concessions (contract) will be self-regulating and self-reporting. Your terms of reference (TOR) will nonetheless be explained to you in due course, and it will be tied to the task of liaising with the Concessionaire on matters relating to the management of the Contract. You are therefore required to be proactive and guide these contracts to Financial Close and Project Implementation, accordingly. “

The Permanent Secretary of Works Ministry Mr. Mahmuda Mamman in his opening remarks said, “The HDMI was created by the Ministry to manage and develop the federal road networks, with the aim of attracting sustainable investment and funding in the development of road infrastructure and maximization of the use of assets along the right of way (ROW).”

He said “the Initiative is expected to amongst others, bring order, accountability, and profitable entrepreneurship to the operations, management, and maintenance of Federal Highways. The following Twelve (12) roads were initially planned for concession under the first phase of the Initiative, namely: Benin – Asaba; Abuja– Lokoja; Kano – Katsina; Onitsha – Owerri – Aba; Shagamu –Benin; Abuja -Keffi –Akwanga; Kano – Maiduguri; Lokoja – Benin; Enugu-Port Harcourt; Ilorin-Jebba; Lagos-Abeokuta; and Lagos-Badagry. However, only Nine (9) of the roads attained Commercial Close.”

The Head of Public Private Partnership (PPP), Mrs Abimbola Asein Federal Ministry of Works rolled out the names of the membership of the HDMI Contract Management Team which include some departments in Works Ministry and Federal Ministry of Justice, Federal Ministry of Environment, Federal Road Maintenance Agency, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, Bureau of Public Enterprise, Debt Management Office and Ministry of Finance.

Director Transport Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) Mohammed Aliyu Bamali who spoke on behalf of Director General, ICRC said “FG and the Commission considered it expedient for Ministry of Works to set up CMT to serve as the main oversight on the implementation of HDMI projects”.

He said “CMT is to carry out the following jobs : efficient management of contract ; that parties strictly keep to the terms and conditions of contract in fulfillment of the financial obligation, project specification and provisions of relevant documents e.g performance bond, insurance and tax etc ;To collate and analyse report of concessionaire as well as conduct periodic visits to the project sites ;  address the various needs and expectations of all stakeholders in executing the projects; establish effective communication channels that are active and collaborative; Communicate project deliverables to stakeholders and to  ensure timely resolution of projects challenges to avoid dispute that will affect project implementation of the contract.

The Concessionaires appreciated members of the HDMI Committee for a job well done and appreciated the resolution, they said “if they had not done their work things wouldn’t have been the way they are for the benefit of Nigerians”.

Sep

04

2023

Dangiwa Reiterates Commitment to Land Use Reforms and Adequate Housing Data

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has pledged his commitment to working with stakeholders and the National Assembly to ensure that the country's Land Use Act is comprehensively reviewed and amended. This initiative aims to update the laws guiding housing, access to land, compensation, resettlement, and other land-related matters in line with current realities. The Minister gave this assurance during a meeting with a World Bank delegation at the ministry's headquarters in Abuja on Monday, 4th September 2023.

Arc. Dangiwa observed that key provisions of the Act, including those related to compensation, are obsolete and lack relevance in guiding land-related matters in today's Nigeria. "I have already issued a directive to the Directors of the Department of Land and the Department of Urban and Regional Planning to develop a robust framework for engaging the National Assembly and stakeholders in reviewing the Land Use Act."

While addressing the issue of the housing deficit, the Minister emphasized the importance of instituting a sustainable framework that generates credible, reliable, and scientific data to guide policy formulation. He stated that he has already moved beyond simply discussing the problem to taking action by engaging the National Population Commission to leverage the forthcoming population census to obtain baseline scientific data about the state of housing conditions in Nigeria.

The visit by the World Bank team aimed to brief the new ministers on the existing collaboration between the World Bank and the ministry, ongoing projects and programs in the housing, land, urban development, and mortgage finance sectors, as well as discuss avenues for further collaborations.

The leader of the delegation, Michael Ilesanmi, noted that discussions with the ministry on land acquisition, resettlement, and compensation began in 2014, with a deepening of these discussions in 2022.

"Land remains a significant issue in the sector. The Land Use Act faces various challenges, and while realities have changed since its enactment in 1978, not much has changed with the Act. I believe there are opportunities to revise the Act to make it more relevant today," he said. He added that the issues surrounding acquisition, resettlement, and compensation are hindering development.

The World Bank team also expressed concern about the inadequate processes and standards used in determining replacement costs and compensation rates, which further exacerbate the challenges in land development. "You can obtain the legal license, but without the social license, you cannot operate effectively," said Ilesanmi.

While the World Bank offered its commitment to provide technical and knowledge assistance to the ministry when called upon, it called for a systematic approach to dealing with the numerous challenges in the land and housing sector.

The minister further assured the team that his leadership is determined to address all the challenges confronting the sector, as well as looking into the foreclosure law, which is essential for the growth of the mortgage industry. He also noted that the ministry will collaborate with relevant agencies in the area of policy development to ensure urban planning receives adequate attention, adding that the retreat for state officials of urban planning scheduled to take place in October 2023 will be one way to discuss strategies to tackle the challenge of unplanned cities.

Aug

25

2023

"Think Outside the Box for Solutions to Housing Problems" - Dangiwa Charges Heads of Housing and Urban Development

The Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has directed the Heads of Departments within the Ministry to think outside the box and come up with innovative measures and ideas that will help the Ministry achieve its mandate of providing affordable housing, increasing access to land, and ensuring the sustainable development of urban and rural areas and communities nationwide.

Arc. Dangiwa issued this directive on the first day of receiving Detailed Briefings from the Principal Officers of the Ministry. This is part of a broad range of reform actions that he plans to take to ensure that the Ministry is properly re-aligned along the path of enhanced efficiency to enable perform its functions optimally towards delivering greater impact as stated in its mandate.

This includes ensuring that the Ministry, which is mostly staffed by professional Architects and Town Planners, take the lead in researching and developing housing designs that are, in reality, actually affordable, acceptable, and accessible to Nigerians, particularly low and medium-income earners, who constitute over 80% of the Nigerian population. He emphasized that all professionals within the Ministry must take their roles seriously and contribute their quota towards achieving this objective.

“As a Ministry staffed mostly with professional Architects, we must use our knowledge and expertise to produce innovative housing designs that are affordable and livable. We must prioritize the 80% of Nigerians that are within the low to medium income segment. They too are Nigerians and deserve to live in decent, safe, and quality homes” he stated.

To achieve this, the Minister immediately set up a Committee on Affordable Housing Design and tasked its members to develop a minimum of three different housing concepts that an average Nigerian can afford.  He directed that the conceptual designs should be organic. This means a family can start with a one bedroom and as their incomes increase expand that same house to a two bedroom or three bedrooms over time on the same parcel of land by attaching one or two walls as the case may be.

Arc. Dangiwa further clarified that an affordable house that is reasonable priced and within the financial means of individuals and families with lower incomes. He said that such a house should not cost more than 30% of a household's income. This includes rent or mortgage payments, as well as utilities and maintenance costs. This puts the preferred cost of a house that an average Nigerian can afford at within the range of N4 to N7million.

The Honorable Minister also assigned the Urban and Regional Planning Directorate the task of collaborating with the National Assembly to formulate an actionable framework for initiating the review of the Land Use Act of 1978 as it is crucial for facilitating affordable housing delivery. The Minister noted that the Land Use Act contains outdated provisions and no longer fully serves its original purpose due to the passage of time.

All directives have been provided with specific timelines to ensure effective and efficient implementation.

May

22

2023

History As President Buhari Commissions Seven Legacy Projects on Tuesday

Following through on his administration’s determination to upgrade and expand the nation’s stock of infrastructure, President Muhammadu Buhari will (tomorrow) Tuesday, commission seven legacy projects completed by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing across the country.

Comprising three major Bridges, three Federal Secretariats and a Road, the historic event will be headlined by the Second Niger Bridge which was conceptualized in 2005. In 2014, there was an attempt to begin the project through Public Private Partnership (PPP) but this was not successful. The construction began in 2016 with the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF).

Others are the Loko-Oweto Bridge across River Benue to link Benue to Nasarawa State and the Ikom Bridge in Cross River State while the Road project is the completed Section of the over 200 kilometres of Kano-Kaduna Dual Carriage Expressway and three new Federal Secretariats.

The first of the Federal Secretariats at Awka is located at Executive Business District Layout, Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State and is situated on a 5.106 Hectares of land. The project was first awarded on 9th December, 2011 but was practically completed and taken over by the Ministry of Works and Housing on 14th July, 2022.

The Secretariat has a total of 498 Office Space, a Conference Hall, four Committee Rooms, an Exhibition Hall, a Banking Hall, a Post Office and befitting Reception. In addition, the Secretariat has lift facilities, well laid out parking spaces and drainages, staff canteen, fire hydrant and other vital facilities.

The second, Federal Secretariat Gusau, Zamfara State is located at Unguwan Dan Lawan, off Sokoto By-Pass Road, Gusau, Zamfara State. The project is situated on a 7.5 Hectares of land and was awarded also on 9th but was practically completed and taken over by the Ministry on 30th November, 2022.

The third to be commissioned is the Federal Secretariat Yenagoa, which is located at Alamieyeseigha Road, in Bayelsa State.  It is situated on a 7.5 Hectares of land and was awarded on 9th December, 2011 but was practically completed and taken over by the Ministry on 30th November, 2022.

It would be recalled that President Buhari commissioned a fourth one, the Federal Secretariat Lafia, located at Bukar Sidi along Jos Road, Lafia, Nasarawa State in February this year.

All nation's media stations are implored to stay tuned for the historic commissioning.

May

15

2023

Remarks At The Shelter Afrique 2023 42nd AGM At The Roundtable Session Of African Ministers With The Theme “The Data Question – Which Are The Real Numbers? Harmonization Of Housing Market Data In Sub-Saharan Africa”

I would like to start my intervention by acknowledging the importance of Data as a critical development and planning tool.

The use of data for planning and decision making by those with the requisite skills, capacity and rigour can lead to predictable, orderly and measurable results.

But there are caveats.

The data must be reliable. It must be collected or gathered from verifiable sources. Its integrity must be unimpeachable.

Data can be dangerous in the hands of the unskilled. I can only equate the degree of danger to leaving nuclear weapons deployment codes in the hands of an unstable person.

It puts the entire planet in peril.

This is why I am delighted to have a speaking opportunity at this most important roundtable about the data question in the Housing market in Sub-Saharan Africa.

A pleasant news in this regard is to inform you that Nigeria will very shortly be conducting a Housing and population census across the country, and with it, we hope to gather data about our people’s housing needs and use this to plan and implement policies, programmes and projects to address any verified needs.

But while this is still in the offing, my most important message to this session is this:

“Africans should stop binging on deficits.”

I say this because all too often, we seem too eager to accept, own and propagate the worst narratives about our countries and our continent, based on data whose sources or integrity are unproven.

At one time we were referred to as the “Dark Continent,” yet our human and material resources built and are sustaining some of the most prosperous societies on earth.

But we never pushed back on the inhuman economic model that created such inequality.

Instead, we seemed too anxious to please and deploy a mindset of surrender and pity.

Thankfully, that mindset is changing, and I daresay not quickly enough.

And it is in this context that I wish to address the question of housing data.

In my tenure of office as Lagos State Governor, between 2012-2015 we delivered 200 units of houses to members of the public every month, over a three-year period.

At the same time other Governors launched and successfully executed housing projects across most of our 36 states, and so did members of the private sector.

Regrettably, it seemed that nobody was ready to take account of the delivery of even 1 (ONE) unit of housing.

There was a fixation and a binge on a supposed 17 million housing deficit; and I will say a few things about that number shortly.

The point I am making here, which needs to be repeated is that by logical and accountable use of data, if there was a need of 17 million and 1 unit was provided, one would expect that the need would reduce by 1 (ONE).

Unfortunately, that was not the case. In a seeming desperation to race to the bottom, binge on the deficit and perhaps unleash a “Nuclear War on Housing” the “deficit” grew to 19 million, later to 22 million and just a few days ago to 28 million according to announcers who cannot point to a source.

All these figures without a basis.

Of course, I took the view that as Housing Minister, my success depended on working with credible data.

So I went in search of the data.

Everybody who had asserted the deficit of 17 million that I asked about the source only pointed me further ahead, almost like the search for a house without an address.

Nobody knew where it came from, but they all loved it and were ready to assert it. Indeed, I think they might have thought that something was wrong with me about finding out the truth.

Happily, the source of the “data” of a housing deficit of 17 million did not prove eternally elusive. I eventually found where it came from.

It was in the PREFACE to the 2012 National Housing Policy signed by the Minister then in charge of the Ministry of Housing, 3 (THREE) years before I took office.

I put a telephone call through to the Minister, who admitted to the preface but said it was prepared by aides and the pressure of work did not allow sufficient vetting.

Needless to say, the Minister confirmed that the Data has no verifiable basis. Therefore, I say to those who still choose to live by it, I wish them well on a journey to the unknown from an unknown destination.

To right-thinking and well-meaning people, I urge you to sensibly disown this baseless data and invite you to let us work together like rational people, using what we know while we await the results of the National Housing and Population Census for 2023.

And to the question what do we know, I say that the last time I checked with our National Bureau of Statistics, (admittedly a few years ago), there was a reliable household survey of about 35 million households in Nigeria; a household representing one family unit.

If we set that nebulous figure of 17 million housing deficit against the verifiable household data of 35 million Households, it would suggest that almost half of the population is in deficit of housing.

I leave you all to square that circle; but my view is that this offends logic and what we know.

Is there a housing deficit?

Of course, there is. I am the first to admit it.

How should we approach it?

My view is again to use what is proven, which is that globally, more people are moving towards cities in the last 50 years than at any time before in our human existence; in a trend now defined as rapid urbanization.

We also know from economic principles that when there is an increased demand for a service, commodity or product without corresponding supply, there will be shortages and price increases. This is also verifiable.

Using these verifiable principles, I submit that the housing deficit in Nigeria and most parts of the continent and the world is more pronounced in urban centres than in rural areas.

While awaiting reliable census data, my approach has been to concentrate on housing supply and construction activities in the urban centres of our states, even as I am mindful of the existence of empty houses in the same urban centres.

I know that many of those struggling for accommodation in the cities have left one form of shelter unused or under utilized in our rural areas.

I also know that housing provision must look seriously at the rental side, while trying to increase ownership.

I know that a lot more needs to be done to free up any obstacles that prevent people from renting or acquiring many empty houses that we see in our urban centres.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, my thoughts are not perfect and they may not provide all the answers, but they represent my convictions about how to approach data use in solving our problems.

I hope our team of experts will move the conversation significantly forward; as I believe that we cannot afford to be less than most diligent in the execution of the 2023 National Housing and Population Census.

It should tell us many things if conducted diligently.

Thank you for listening.

May

11

2023

42nd Shelter Afrique AGM: Nigeria Emerges Chairman

The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola representing Nigeria, has emerged the Chairman of Shelter Afrique (SHAF) Annual General Meeting (AGM) Bureau at the company’s’ 42nd AGM after an election held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja on 11th May, 2023.

Fashola expressed with humility yet with deep sense of responsibility while responding to the acceptance of his nomination as the new Chairman of SHAF.  He said “the Nigerian government is transiting to another Administration in 18days time, we are embracing change but this is what SHAF needs to make progress, the change comes in different shapes, like changing board members, new ways of raising funds, having new directions, etc. He said the organization needed to introduce new strategies to restructure SHAF.

The outgoing Chairman of Shelter Afrique AGM Bureau & Zimbabwe’s Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities Hon. Daniel Garwe while making his remark said “the housing sector needs helps in wealth creation, and employment in Africa “He encouraged members to pay their subscriptions to help the company to survive in the face of Covid -19 pandemic in it's after mat while emphasizing that Africa needed Housing for its citizens.

The previous election of SHAF was held in Cameron in 2021, subsequently, Rwanda will be chairing the next meeting in 2024. Nigeria is now the current host of the 2023 meeting while Algeria will host the AGM in 2025

Apr

28

2023

Shelter Afrique Holds 42nd AGM In Abuja – Nigeria

The hosting of the 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Symposium Of Shelter Afrique (SHAF) is now confirmed to be holding in Abuja Nigeria from the 7th -12th of May ,2023.

Shelter Afrique (SHAF) is a company for Habitat and Housing, established in 1982 by African Governments, the African Development Bank (AFDB) and African Reinsurance Corporation (African–Re).  This company is dedicated to providing funding solutions for affordable housing projects across Africa

Nigeria is a founding member of this company and holds position as the second largest shareholder after Kenya with investments totaling (USD) $30,724,961:00 and a shareholding of 15.80 % 

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Shelter Afrique Constitutes the main policy organ of the company and it provides a forum for shareholders to collectively review and deliberate on the performance of the company once every year.

On the other hand, the Annual Symposium held during the AGM, is one of the key activities of Shelter Afrique, which is an avenue for collaboration and synthesizing emerging lessons, knowledge, best practices and innovations. Over the year the symposium has served to document and disseminate information to African Countries, stakeholders and key partners on the provision of affordable housing in Africa. 

Nigeria, as at present is the first Vice –President of the 41st AGM Bureau recently held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe in July of 2022; making her to be in the pole position to become the Chairman of the 42nd AGM Bureau In this wise, the country is going to host the 42nd AGM Symposium in Abuja by May 2023.

Some of the key stakeholders expected at the meeting are:

a)    Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN)
b)     Mortgage Bankers Association of Nigeria (MBAN)
c)    Family Homes Fund (FHF)
d)    Nigeria Mortgage Reinsurance Company (NMRC)
e)    Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN)
f)    Federal Housing Authority (FHA)
g)    Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)
h)     Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN)
i)    Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP)
j)     Federal and State Ministries and Agencies in charge of  Housing, Urban Development, Finance and Economic Matters.

Other activities during this AGM are:

Ministerial Roundtable session with Ministers of Planning Economy and Business Development Investor Relations Session as side event. 

It promises to be an impactful session.

Jan

25

2023

Building Infrastructure Improves the Economy - Fashola

Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola has said that the Federal Government has committed so much money into infrastructure to ensure that people reap the benefit of it, saying that without infrastructure businesses cannot grow.

Fashola made the remarks at the 23rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) that was held in Abuja.

The Minister said road building in the country has improved dredging, granite, laterite and quarry businesses and NARTO is one of the major beneficiaries for moving goods and services during construction works.

Fashola advised NARTO to enforce weight regulation from loading point for the safety of our roads and also ensure that their members are professionally trained drivers.

In the same vein, the Minister told NARTO to create certification for its members and drivers must be made to maintain speed limit, as well as bringing a stop to the culture of repairing trucks by the roadside, suggesting that workshops or trucks should be created in all states and NARTO divisions across the country.

In his remarks, NARTO President, Yusuf Lawal thanked President Buhari for making NARTO part of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Road Task Team that will supervises critical roads being handled by NNPC.

Yusuf further disclosed that NARTO has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that its members would observe high level of sincerity and responsibility during and after the conduct of 2023 election while moving election materials around.

Mr. Yemi Adetunji who represented NNPC at the event said NARTO was involved in almost all activities of its organization and they are a key player in realizing its objective of contributing to the National economy.

He said NNPC is to support government to rehabilitate the road in Nigeria and they would ensure the petrol products is available for people through NARTO.

The Corps Marshal of Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Corps Marshal Dauda Ali said “NARTO has been working with us for a long time and we will always advise them when it is necessary, we worked together to ensure a successful ember months period “

The Representative of Major Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Godwin Jarikre said “since 2020 we have been collaborating with NARTO for the benefit of Nigerians to ensure safe driving on the road and to ensure bad emission from their trucks are not affecting members of the public. We will advise that drivers look for tools to manage their trucks and NARTO should keep emphasizing on the training, education, medical fitness of drivers to ensure we have good transportation system in the country”.

Dec

21

2022

FG Hands Over Keys To More 1994 Super Eagles Players

The Federal Government has handed over keys to more members of the 1994 Super Eagles team such as Mutiu Adepoju, Ike Shorumu, Finidi George, Akin Amao a doctor in the team in fulfillment of the promise that was made to the team 28 years ago by the Federal Government.

Adewale Adesokan a beneficiary of the National Housing Project of the Federal Government also received his key. Works and Housing Minister who handed over the keys at the project site in Onidundu in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State was represented by the Federal Controller of Housing in the state, Mr. Gbolahan Jacob Adesola.

The Minister disclosed that four (4) Nigerians in the state have fully paid for their houses, he therefore, encouraged other Nigerians to seize the opportunity to become house owners by subscribing through the Ministry's portal: https://nhp.worksandhousing.gov.ng.

Fashola said the portal was opened to avail members of the public equal opportunity to apply for and own their own houses without discrimination or artificial obstacles. He added that interested members of the public could apply through the Mortgage Bank as well.

Fashola said that buying a house in the National Housing Project, (NHP) has an advantage over what is obtainable in the market as the payment options are really flexible.

He said, " The advantage of owning a house in the National Housing Programme, NHP include well-spaced site such as one bedroom unit which is about 60 - 70 square meter, two-bedroom unit, which is 76 - 103 square meters and three-bedroom units that is 110 - 137 square meters."

" These are extremely generous spaces when compared to what is available in the market."

In his speech Oyo State Governor Dr. Seyi Makinde who was represented by the state Commissioner of Land Management, Segun Olayiwola expressed gratitude to the Federal government for undertaking the project. He noted that the project will no doubt ease the housing problem in the state and the country at large.

The Governor stated that it was in recognition of the immense benefit that the project could bring to the people that the state government donated the land for the construction.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Mr. Bashir Nura Alkali who was represented by Mr. Raymond Ogunlewe said the Federal Government inaugurated the National Housing programme for the construction of affordable and acceptable houses nationwide as part of President Muhammadu Buhari's developmental agenda of addressing the Housing needs.

The Permanent Secretary added that the Ministry had successfully constructed housing schemes in 35 states in the country. He also said the housing types comprise of two-bedroom, three-bedroom semi-detached bungalows and condominiums.

Mr. Alkali disclosed that the houses were built in cognizance of the culture and climatic peculiarities of the regions while upholding the tenets of building, energy and efficiency code being championed by the Ministry.

In response the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to God for making it possible and praised the Federal government for the execution of the project.