Dangiwa Advocates for Youth Inclusiveness in Urban Planning and Development The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has underscored the need to incorporate the youth perspective into Urban Planning and Development, in order to effectively address climate change and ensure that cities remain resilient in the face of emerging challenges. Dangiwa made this known while giving his keynote address at the commemoration of the 2024 World Habitat Day/World Cities, in Abuja. The theme for this year’s World Habitat Day is “Engaging youth to create a better urban future” and for the World Cities Day, “Youth leading climate and local action for cities”. The Minister appreciated the promptness of the themes for the event, pointing out that the youth of today are not only the leaders of tomorrow but are already making significant contributions to sustainable urbanization through innovation and advocacy. While acknowledging the power of the unique insights and powerful voices of the young people in shaping the future of communities, the Minister emphasized on the importance of creating spaces where the ideas of the youth are valued and acted upon. According to him, “By supporting their initiatives with the necessary resources, we can enhance their impact on urban development and climate resilience”. The Minister was delighted at the Ministry’s role to lead Nigeria’s participation in the Urban October celebration, adding that the Ministry took pride in joining the international community to tackle the multifaceted challenges of urbanization, with the goal to raise awareness of the issues within Nigeria and promote collaborative action across all levels from local communities to the international stage. Arc. Dangiwa noted some of the steps being taken in the Country under the Housing Ministry to meet the challenges of rapid urbanization to include: the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Program which aims to build 50,000 housing units under phase 1; a 2-Day Workshop on Green Buildings by World Bank, IFC EDGE Programme, for technical staff of the Ministry, which is part of the drive to ensure the incorporation of sustainable and climate smart practices into housing projects. Accordingly, he stated the Ministry’s commitment to sustainable urbanization beyond housing, siting initiatives that support the low income earners such as the ongoing work towards the establishment of the National Social Housing Fund, aimed at helping the lower income Nigerians access affordable housing. While the Minister revealed that the efforts of the Ministry aligned closely with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty, inequality, and climate change, he acknowledged that the challenges required the support of every segment of the society, with youth playing a key role. “By engaging youth in urban planning and decision-making, we can create cities that offer opportunities for all while remaining resilient to the impacts of climate change”, he added. Further charging the young leaders to drive real change with their potentials, Dangiwa assured that they would be provided with the needed resources and opportunities to shape a sustainable and equitable urban future. “We stand with you, ready to amplify your voices and support your efforts in creating cities that reflect our shared values”, he encouraged. Similarly, he expressed optimism that the work being done at the Ministry would impact positively on the lives of Nigerians, making housing more affordable and accessible while fostering inclusive urban growth. Earlier in his message for the day, the Secretary General of the United Nations Mr. Antonio Guterres, noted that Cities needed the energy and vision of youths to champion the cause for change, being at the forefront of climate crisis with more than half of the world’s population and 70 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Mr. Gutteres expressed hope that empowering young people can lead to acceleration of climate action and global driven progress for Sustainable Development Goals. “We must amplify their voices, invest in their ideas, and promote their meaningful participation in urban decision-making”, he further said. In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Urban Development and Regional Planning, Honourable Abiante Awaji, represented by the Vice Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Abdulhakeem Ado, said the occasion offered an opportunity for reflection, action and collaboration in the strive to create a sustainable, inclusive resilient Urban space. He stated that the challenges of lack of proper planning, building without consideration of climate change, conversion of residential areas to that of commercial, among others, being faced by Cities can be solved when young people whose energy, creativity and commitment to sustainability are engaged. Hon. Abiante further assured that the house committee would continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that Nigerian Cities are planned and managed for the benefit of both present and future generations. In his Welcome Address, the Permanent Secretary Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi stated that by the event, the Country was joining the global community in the laudable venture of advancing the interest of National, regional and global stakeholders, on issues of sustainable urbanization. He encouraged all stakeholders to contribute their ideas, share experiences and propose solutions in the their discussions. “Let us work together to build inclusive, safe and resilient cities where all citizens regardless of background or social economic status can thrive”, he said. Dr. Oginbiyi expressed appreciation to the UN- Habitat for their roles in making the event possible.
Housing Ministry Trains Staff on Green Building Practices * Workshop Transformative for our Ministry, housing development - Dangiwa * Its FG's commitment under President Tinubu to do things differently, adopt global best practices A 2- day training workshop on Green Buildings Practices for the staff of the technical departments of the ministry of Housing and Urban Development has commenced today, Wednesday, October 30th, 2024. The workshop was anchored by the Excellence in Design For Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) and a World Bank Group, International Finance Coorporation (IFC), in collaboration with the ministry of Housing and Urban Development. Declaring open the workshop, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa described the workshop as transformative for the ministry because it's impact will transform the thinking approach of the staff. Green Building Practice involves designing, constructing and operating buildings in an environmentally friendly manner and aims to provide residents with a comfortable, healthy indoor and outdoor environment. Dangiwa said "This administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to doing things differently by adopting global best practices that will improve the lives of the people and their health generally. The workshop is beyond presentation, rather a learning experience that will be adopted and will lead to real and tangible improvements in the way we plan and build homes in Nigeria" He explained that the ministry will set standard and example for other ministries, agencies and even private sectors to emulate, adding that the ministry is ready to embrace green building to create a sustainable future for Nigeria. Speaking earlier, the IFC EDGE Green Buildings Team Lead, Temilola Sonola, said that, Green Building would support Nigeria to adopt global best practices in order to fight against Climate Change, further disclosing that Nigeria has recorded 31 property developers, financial institutions and investors that have obtained EDGE GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION for a grand total of 35 projects in Nigeria, including diverse building types like hospitals, student accommodation and others. She further stated that, building and construction sector contributes 40% to global Green Building certification and the factors to it which are rapid growth, urban population and utilization of outdated construction. Sonola said, " complying with Green Building brings about use of less water, less energy, less waste and less infrastructure which will lead to improved air quality and living conditions. The financial benefits are enamous which includes increase in asset value and cost reduction". The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi in his remarks said, the workshop was timely as so many homes in Nigeria lack access to some of the basic amenities like water and energy among others. He said, the workshop will help the staff as they comply to boost and improve the livelihood of those that are vulnerable. ...
Dangiwa Inaugurates Builders Disciplinary Tribunal … commends CORBON for collaborative engagement with the Ministry. … says Ministry remains committed to supporting stakeholders to meet global standards. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has inaugurated a seven member Disciplinary Tribunal for Registered Builders of Nigeria, Tuesday, October 29th, 2024. The Disciplinary Tribunal is charged with the duty of considering and determining any case of infraction by the members referred to it by the panel established by the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) In his inauguration speech, the Minister expressed the Ministry's dedication to collaborate with professional bodies and regulatory agencies in the built environment, in order to ensure that it meets global standards. The tribunal is a part of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), empowered with the duty of upholding the standards of the building profession, as well as guarding public safety. Danhiwa disclosed that the inauguration was facilitated by sections 16 (1) and (2) of the Builders Registration Act, Cap B13, LFN 2004 which guides the establishment of the tribunal. While acknowledging the responsibility of builders to construct safe and reliable structures that protect lives, the Minister emphasized on the importance of adhering to regulations and standards in the profession, warning about the catastrophic consequence of compromising safety. “I have always believed that establishing structures, systems and procedures that enforce adherence to professional standards and ethics is crucial" he said. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the recurring pattern of building collapse across the country, citing the tragic incident which recently occurred in the Lugbe area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Similarly, he also stated that the Builders Disciplinary Tribunal is designed to take decisive action on issues concerning gaps in enforcement and professional diligence in the building industry. “Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, negligence, misconduct, or compromise on safety standards will not be tolerated in the building industry” he warned. Accordingly, Arc. Dangiwa commended the CORBON for its collaborative engagement with the Ministry in providing a list of qualified nominees, further charging members of the tribunal to uphold the trust and credibility of the building profession by ensuring that disciplinary cases are managed with integrity, fairness and transparency. “Your decisions will have far-reaching effects, and I trust you to carry out your responsibilities with the diligence and professionalism that this mandate requires”, he said. Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated members, the Chairman of the Registered Builders Disciplinary Tribunal, Bldr. Samson Ameh Opaluwah Stated that the inauguration of the Tribunal signified a bold statement by the Federal Government of Nigeria through Minister Dangiwa, that professionalization and regulation by law are being further entrenched in the building industry. He assured the Minister that the tribunal would enforce discipline on builders who are found wanting, further promising commitment to the professionalization of the built environment. ...
FG Issues Ultimatun to Defaulters on Ground Rent Payment * Threatens revocation of CofOs * Ratifies new rates regime for crops, economic trees compensation * Land Revenue vital to delivery of Renewed Hope Agenda - Dangiwa The Federal Government has given a 60-day notice to owners of it's Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) to comply with the payment of ground rent as well as statutory charges or risk having their CofOs revoked. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa sounded this warning in a keynote address at the 29th Conference of Directors of Lands in the Federal and States' Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024 The theme for the 29th conference is “Equitable Land Stewardship: Challenges of Land Administration and it's Impact on Climate Change and Community Rights" The Minister decried the failure of owners of titled properties to pay ground rent and other statutory charges to the Ministry for several years now, saying that such acts hampers the ability of the government to maximize the revenue earning potential of its landed assets. “This non-compliance has resulted in the loss of trillions of naira in revenue to the Federal Government. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed, Tinubu, this cannot be tolerated as this revenue is much needed to deliver the Renewed Hope Agenda to Nigerians”, he added. In addition, Dangiwa also warned that the refusal of some residents association of Federal Government landed properties to allow staff of the Ministry access to their various estates for billing purposes and enforcement of non-payments as outlined in their respective C of Os, would attract appropriate penalties and sanctions going further. While admitting that the level of land administration was still in a state of emergency with issues such as the obsolete Land Use Act of 1978, lengthy, expensive, and complicated land titling and registration processes, limited access to land information, Conflicting land laws and policies, lack of formal land titles, among others, Dangiwa stated that Ministry has prioritized land governance issues and taken significant steps to make a difference. Accordingly, the minister outlined some of the steps such as the establishment of a new regime of revised rates for crops and economic trees that is fair, equitable, and provides adequate compensation to persons affected by government projects, formulation of Land Reforms Task Team to critically review, audit, and develop approaches to operationalize the Land Use Act. In addition to this, he revealed that the Land Reform task force has prepared a preliminary report that highlights the need for the establishment of a National Land Commission as the launch point for implementing the Land Use Act and ensuring the synchronization of state land registries. Other steps taken are the upscaling of the Electronic Certificate of Occupancy (e-C of O) and Land Titling System that incorporates a web-based Advanced Workflow System (WNABS) and an Electronic Documentation Management System (EDMS) for all federal government-owned lands in the 36 states of the country; To this effect, the Minister gladly announced an award of ‘Best MDA in Innovative Technology’ for 2024 given to the Ministry by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, in recognition of the Ministry’s efforts to leverage technology for improved land management. Accordingly, he highlighted the Ministry’s partnership with the World Bank to implement the Land and Urban Development component of the Nigeria-Urban Livability and Mobility Programme which aims to enhance the design and implementation of development policies and programs in selected Nigerian cities, as well as foster greater livability, competitiveness, and resilience. In contribution to this partnership, Arc. Dangiwa noted the Ministry’s effort by organizing a national workshop on ‘Nigeria Livable Cities’ which brought together representatives from the national government and state commissioners of housing, land, and urban development from ten selected cities: Lagos, Kano, Ibadan, Rivers, Edo, Anambra, Abia, Kaduna, Plateau, and Borno. The Minister also reiterated an upcoming groundbreaking partnership with the World Bank to address over 90% of unregistered land in the country with an estimated $300 billion in dead capital. He stated some of the achievements which which the partnership aims at to include registration, documentation and titling of all land parcels within five years, increasing the formalization of land transactions, development and launch a National Digital Land Information System (NDLIS); among others. Dangiwa further charged the Directors of Land in various States as well as Heads of Housing Development Institutions, and regulatory bodies to play their respective roles in order to implement solutions to the issues hampering effective land administration and governance. Earlier in his Address, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi expressed excitement in the theme of the Conference, in the sense that as it speaks to some of the most pressing issues of land administration, climate change, and the protection of community rights, facing the Nation, the continent and the world at large. While noting that Land is a fundamental resource for development and provides the basis for Agriculture, Housing, industry and Infrastructures, He emphasized on the need for collaboration between Federal and State Agencies, Local Communities and International Partners, in order to design land administration frameworks that will promote equity, sustainability and resilience, as well as promote economic growth and environmental sustainability. Ogunbiyi conveyed his confidence that the insights shared at the conference would contribute to the development of robust policies that advance equitable land stewardship across Nigeria and the African continent. Also in his welcome address, the Director of the Department of Lands and Housing Development, Mr. Collin’s Alabi Esv, noted that stewardship of land, which is one of most precious resources, required careful management and equitable distribution. “As we face rising pressures from urban expansion, population growth, and the effects of climate change, it becomes crucial that land administration processes are efficient, transparent, and inclusive”, he stated. He disclosed that discussions at the conference would explore ways to balance the pressures from urban expansion, population growth, and the effects of climate change. Mr. Alabi further encouraged the participants to actively engage in the sessions, share their experiences, and collaborate towards the development of solutions that will shape the future of Land Administration for generations to come. ...
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We are Committed to Improving Staff Welfare - Dangiwa
....Engages Tulsi Foundation Hospital to provide Free Medical Eye Test, Care for ministry's staff
As part of its commitment to improving the welfare and well being of staff, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, has engaged the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation Eye Hospital, Abuja to provide free eye medical tests and care for the staff of the ministry.
While declaring the commencement of the free eye care exercise, Minister Arc Ahmed Dangiwa, stated that, welfare of staff is paramount in order to build a healthy workforce to attain high performance. According to the minister, the eye hospital service delivery is not for profit venture rather service to humanity.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, described the free eye medical test for the stsff of the ministry as a milestone in response to staff welfare, pointing out that the issue of welfare is not only limited to money, but it covers the overall wellbeing of the staff. Dr Ogunbiyi applauded Minister, Arc Ahmed Dangiwa for bringing this free eye medical care, saying that it is the first of its kind in the ministry.
The coordinator of the Tulsi Chanrai Eye Hospital Foundation, commended the minister for the gesture, ssying that he didn't hesitate in welcoming the idea after mentioning it to him.
Keynote address delivered by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Marcus O. Ogunbiyi, at the launch of Performance Management day at the Ministry’s Headquarter, Mabushi, Abuja on 10th October 2024.
Protocols:
It is with immense pride and a deep sense of responsibility that I am with you today to officially launch the weekly Performance Management System (PMS) Day in our esteemed Ministry.
2. This is the beginning of a transformative journey for us as we heed the directive from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, which mandates every Thursday to be set aside for activities related to Performance Management System in the Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies and be christened “PMS Day”.
3. This directive is not just a routine exercise; it is a call to action for all of us to fully embrace the vision of an efficient, effective, responsive and performance-based Federal Civil Service.
4. Performance Management System is a tool for goal and target setting, appraisal and monitoring of employee performance and the delivery of institutional mandates. It provides a systematic process of planning work, setting targets, providing support to employees and measuring results.
5. It also provides the framework for continuous tracking of employees’ performance in a manner that is consistent and measurable, for developing and improving their capacities to perform on their jobs and for motivating them for increased productivity.
6. The institutionalization of a functional performance management system being one of the six pillars of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025, (FCSSIP25) will improve efficiency and productivity in the public service and is key to achievement of the objectives of the ongoing reform initiatives and culture re-orientation in the Public Service.
7. It will also ensure appropriate linkage of key government tools towards the attainment of national development goals and entrench a merit-based system in the Public Service. As a matter of fact, institutionalizing PMS is a cornerstone for our efforts to transform the entire Nigerian Public Service as a result-based and performing institution. PMS is an essential tool that provides a guide for the MDAs’ operations as we seek to reclaim our enviable position in delivering high-quality services to the Nigerian people.
8. The introduction of PMS has remained a timely project, and I have no doubt that it is exactly what the Federal Civil Service needs at this critical time to elevate our service delivery standards, enhance accountability, and build a positive culture of productivity, consequent management and continuous improvement in both personnel and institutional performance.
9. Today, as we launch the PMS Day in the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, we are not just institutionalizing a PMS weekly activity in the Ministry; we are reinforcing our commitment to excellence that has been the guiding ethos of the Ministry in the achievements of its deliverables of the Presidential Priorities and the implementation of the FCSSIP25 reform initiatives.
10. It is crucial to understand that the full implementation and institutionalisation of PMS is not just the responsibility of a few; it is a collective responsibility that spans all levels of our Ministry, from the most senior management cadre to the lowest-ranked officers, including security personnel and the janitorial service providers. Everyone has a vital role to play in ensuring that PMS is not just a beautiful policy on paper but a living, breathing organisational culture within the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
11. To all Directorate level officers, you are the leaders and the vision bearers of your respective departments. As PMS supervisors, your roles in driving this initiative cannot be overstated. Your commitment to the institutionalization of PMS in your respective departments are what will inspire and motivate other staff and team members to follow suit. You are the ones who will set the tone for accountability and performance at the departmental levels, and I urge you to lead by example.
12. I commend all the Departments and Units that have cascaded signing of performance contracts with staff. We have no place to hide. We have been a performing Ministry. We are determined and we shall continue to perform because PMS has come to stay in this Ministry. To move our sector and country forward, you and I must embrace this world-best practice and your department should not be a reason for the Ministry to lose its enviable high-ranking position as one of the leading MDAs in the implementation of Federal Government reforms and programmes.
13. To our middle and junior-level officers, your dedication and hard work are the bedrock of our Ministry’s success. The PMS is designed to recognize and reward your contributions, ensuring that your efforts are aligned with our shared vision and that your professional growth is supported.
14. I encourage you to see this initiative as an opportunity to showcase your talents, sharpen your skills, and play active roles in the development of our Ministry and the nation at large.
15. It is normal for a very young Ministry like ours to face some challenges especially in a housing and urban development sector with a high level of expectations in creating possibilities for social infrastructure as enabler for growth. These have not in any way deterred the Ministry from exploring possibilities and innovative ways of bringing about possible solutions including partnering with our stakeholders to be able to deliver on the Ministry’s mandate as expected.
16. However, with the full implementation of the PMS, we have a robust framework that allows us to measure our progress, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate our successes. It is a tool that will guide our decision-making processes and ensure that every action we take contributes to the fulfillment of our mandates in formulating and implementing the policies, programmes and projects of the Federal Government of Nigeria in the Housing and Urban Development sector.
17. As we set aside every Thursday to focus and reflect on our PMS activities, let us all commit to these sessions with the seriousness they deserve. Let us use this time to evaluate our performances, identify the gaps that need addressing, and collaboratively find solutions that will drive our Ministry forward. The PMS Day is our collective space for reflection, learning, and growth.
18. In conclusion, I am confident that if we fully embrace the PMS, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will set the benchmark for other Ministries to follow. Together, we can create a public service that is responsive, innovative, and committed to excellence.
19. Thank you for your commitment and dedication, and I look forward to working with all of you to make this initiative a success. It is on this note that I hereby launch today and every other Thursday as the PMS Day in the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
20. Thank you and God bless.
REMARKS BY THE HON. MINISTER OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ARC. AHMED MUSA DANGIWA, AT THE ZOOM MEETING WITH HER EXCELLENCY, DR. SANIA A. ANSARI, CHAIRPERSON, ANSARI GROUP LTD, UAE, ON MONDAY JULY 22, 2024
Protocols:
- Your Excellency, Dr. Sania A. Ansari, Chairperson, Ansari Group
- Officials of the Ansari Group
- Deputy Director, Middle East and Gulf Division, Amb. Murtala Jimoh.
- The Hon. Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Alh. Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo.
- The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi
- Directors, Special Assistants, and other Ministry staff on this Zoom Meeting.
HON MINISTER , HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ARC. AHMED MUSA DANGIWA DECLARING OPEN A TRAINING WORKSHOP ON GREEN BUILDINGS PRACTICES FOR THE STAFF OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTS OF THE MINISTRY, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30TH, 2024
Hon Minister , Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa declaring open a Training Workshop on Green Buildings Practices for the Staff of Professional Developments of the Ministry, Wednesday, October 30th, 2024
2024 URBAN OCTOBER: DANGIWA ADVOCATES FOR YOUTH INCLUSIVENESS IN URBAN PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa