Jun

11

2024

Dangiwa Charges Africa's Housing Ministers to Collaborate Towards Tackling Continent's Housing Challenges at 43rd SHAFDB AGM in Kigali

Kigali, Rwanda – June 11, 2024 - The Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development and 42nd AGM Bureau Chair of Shelter Afrique Development (ShafDB), Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has urged African housing ministers to work collaboratively to address the continent's pressing housing development challenges. This call to action was made during his opening remarks at the Opening Ceremony of the Bank’s 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) Symposium, holding at the Marriott Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda 11-13th June, 2024.

In attendance at the opening ceremony were the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, represented by the Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Edouard Ngirente, Ministers of Housing and Public Works from several African countries, organized sector and private sector players. 

Stressing the importance of innovative financing, Dangiwa underscored the crucial role of ShafDB as Africa’s premier housing finance institution, stating, "ShafDB is Africa’s housing finance bank, the only such institution that we have. It is therefore important that we all continue to give the bank all the support that it requires to grow, scale in impact and deliver on its mandate." He highlighted the necessity for continued support to the bank to enable it to scale its impact and deliver on its mandate of providing affordable, decent, and quality housing across Africa.

As part of efforts to institutionalize partnerships, the Hon. Minister unveiled plans to launch a Financial Caucus of African Ministers of Housing and Urban Development during the AGM. This platform, he noted, aims to foster synergy, share experiences, and develop innovative measures to bolster housing development across African nations. He emphasized, "The African housing problem is for Africa to solve. And we as Ministers of Housing must recognize that we are the ones responsible for providing the solutions and driving the process towards fixing Africa’s housing challenge." He reiterated that solving Africa’s housing problem requires a unified approach, urging ministers to work together, share lessons, and engage with external stakeholders collectively. 

“At the end of this AGM, we also plan to have a Kigali Declaration to signify and communicate our collective desire to Prioritize housing development and commit to taking concrete steps towards making a substantial difference. The Kigali Declaration aims to unify our voices to achieve common goals and tackle shared challenges. It seeks to highlight to the global community the urgent need for coordinated action on climate change, emphasizing its impact on Africa.   It is important to state that the Kigali Declaration will not just be words on paper. We have ensured that it is based on a well-prepared roadmap for "How to Finance and Deliver," leveraging the professional expertise around Shelter Afrique Development Bank. Our aim is to make a difference. And this is possible”, he noted. 

Dangiwa also highlighted the critical role of the housing industry in achieving climate ambition and sustainability targets in the face of climate change. He called for a commitment to upholding the laws and statutes governing ShafDB and praised the perseverance and strategic planning that have led to significant achievements over the past year. "Our achievements over the past year underscore the importance of strategic planning and building strong connections," he noted.

Highlighting a major accomplishment, Dangiwa announced the overwhelming support from member States for the ratification of the new statutes during the Extraordinary General Assembly in Algiers. He stated, "This consensus is a significant milestone in our journey to establish the Shelter Afrique Development Bank." Despite some delays in the full ratification process, he emphasized the need to address these challenges promptly to continue the bank's growth trajectory.

The Hon. Minister expressed his gratitude to the President of Rwanda, His Excellency Paul Kagame, and the Government of Rwanda for hosting the AGM. He noted, "The beauty, neatness and orderliness of Kigali and its hospitality is simply breathtaking." Additionally, he thanked the ShafDB Board of Directors, led by Dr. Chii Akporji, for their support throughout his tenure as Chairperson of the 42nd AGM Bureau, acknowledging the significant milestones achieved under their guidance.

In addition, Dangiwa underscored the importance of building robust alliances and sustaining momentum. He expressed confidence in the incoming Chair of the 43rd AGM Bureau, Hon. Dr. Jimmy Gasore, to guide the revitalization process effectively. He said, "I am optimistic and anticipate that the new Chair of the 43rd AGM Bureau possesses the capacity to effectively guide this revitalization process."

Dangiwa expressed his gratitude to all participants for their commitment and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of staying united to overcome new and existing challenges. He stated, "Regardless of the decisions we make, I am confident that we will make them together, as a united body."

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of ShafDB, Mr. Thierno Hann and the Board Chairperson, Dr. Chii Akporji reinforced the Hon. Minister’s call for collaboration stating that the Bank had undergone significant reforms and reorganization and is now better positioned to deliver on its mandate of providing affordable to citizens of its member countries. They encouraged African countries to double down on their support of the Bank by making timely payments of the capital subscriptions and enabling effective project implementation. 

Jun

07

2024

Dangiwa Expresess Ministry's Readiness, Participation in Community Engagement Programme 

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has expressed the readiness of the ministry to participate in the community engagement programme in order to ensure the impact of the policies, projects and programmes of the federal government through the housing sector is felt at the communities.

Dangiwa gave the assurance when he received the team of Senior Special Assistants to the President on Communty Engagement, on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.

The Senior Special Assistants to the President on Community Engagement are; Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, (NW),  Abiodun Essiet (NC), Chioma Nweze (SE), Gift Johnbull (SS), Abdulhamid Yahaya (NE) and Moremi Ojudu for South West.

Dangiwa expressed optimism to engage with the team considering how pertinent their mandate is, saying that they provide a bridge between the presidency and the grassroots, as well as between the Ministry and the communities.

While reiterating his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for demerging the Ministry from that of works, Dangiwa noted that housing is one sector that increases the GDP of a Nation and creates jobs, in the sense that for every house built, up to 25 jobs is created for the skilled and unskilled labourers.

He also told the team the core functions of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development which is to increase the supply of affordable houses to Nigerians and to ensure that the urban and rural areas are developed in a way that the slums are upgraded, by increasing sanitation, support drainages, security lights, among others.

Similarly, the minister informed the team that the Housing Ministry was included by Mr. President in the supplementary budget of 2023 with 100bn, from which 20bn was integrated into building the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates, while 50bn integrated into slum upgrade and urban renewal.

“We have done ground breaking for Katsina, Kano and Sokoto states in the North West, Yobe and Gombe States in the North East; we are still awaiting the sites in Nassarawa and Benue States for the North Central zone. The others in the South due to time limit we have to now schedule it till after sallah to start precisely from the 24th, we are planning to do the groundbreaking for the south western states in Oyo and Osun States, South East we have Ebonyi and Abia, South South we have Akwa Ibom and Delta States”, he stated.

The Minister also explained that the Renewed Hope Cities are high rise multi storey block of flats and terraces supposed to be in each geo-political zone, aimed at decongesting the city centers to make another city, while for the Renewed Hope Estates he said they are to be done in the remaining 30 states.

“For the Cities we have just taken Kano as one of it, we are planning to do public private partnership in other cities, we have done one here in FCT at Karsana, commissioned by Mr. President to contain over 3112 housing units, and the project is ongoing. We are thinking Lagos through the funding of the FMBN where 1500 units have already been recorded and construction has already started”, he said.

Accordingly, the minister told the team that  the Ministry intends to take four states in each geo political zones of the Country and two in the FCT for the Slum Upgrade, pointing out the components of the projects which are basically drainages, roads, street lights, sanitation and schools; according to him, this would be done closely with the National Assembly members who are much closer to their citizens and know their problems better.

Under the National Housing Program, the Minister noted that the previous administration completed 3000 out of 6000 houses in 33 states; He said the houses which are still largely unoccupied were receiving attention from the Ministry, and renovation ongoing for some of the dilapidated ones. He said the Ministry is currently working with the controllers of housing in the states where the projects are located, and has also given out forms to sell them off to interested buyers through different subscription options such as outright purchase, mortgage, installmental payments or rent-to-own.

Similarly, the minister informed the team about the web portal recently launched by the Ministry in order to enhance subscription for the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates, “ the portal has been launched and people are subscribing into the houses that are being built now in these 13 states plus the ones at the Karsana site, it has been made easier and simpler for people to go into and they are happily doing that” he stated.

He further told the team of SSA’s that the selection of the construction sites was on a first come first serve basis, explaining that a letter was written to all the state governors appealing for 50 hectares of land for the Renewed Hope Estates.

Responding to the request for a desk officer at the Ministry, the Minister directed that they meet through the Permanent Secretary, the Directors of the Public Building and Special Project departments, who are in charge of all the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates as well as the Urban Slum Upgrade, respectively, for any information they need.

Also on their request to attend commissioning of sites and housing units in states alongside the Ministry, Dangiwa said that the groundbreaking for the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates would recommence on the 24th of June immediately after the sallah celebration for the South West, South East and South South states, including Nasarawa State.

“When the time table is drawn, you can get it from the public building department so that the person in charge for those regions can join us”, he assured.

Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant, North West, Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, informed the Minister about their mandate which is bridging between the presidency and global citizens by way of localizing to ensure that the policies, projects and programmes of the Federal Government get to those at the grassrooot.

While noting that the people at the community level needs awareness to allow for feedback on the successes recorded by the Ministry in terms of provision of affordable houses, the team expressed their interest to collaborate with the Ministry and take the housing programmes to the communities across the six geo-political zones, engaging and informing them of how they can access the housing projects.

They commended the slum upgrade initiative of the Ministry, and assured to engage the slum dwellers and communicate the plans of the Ministry as well as how they can key in and also use their own capacity to support in their own way to develop the slums.

The team requested for a desk officer to work with during the engagements at different communities so as to properly address issues and provide information regarding how people can access the houses.

May

27

2024

Housing Construction Creates Positive Economic Impact - Dangiwa 

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has stated that the numerous economic activities taking place on construction sites has the value chain effect that creates positive economic impact in the society.

Dangiwa spoke in Sokoto at the ground breaking of 250 units of Renewed Hope Housing Estate, Monday, May 27th, 2024.

The groundbreaking was part of the Nationwide Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, officially flagged off in February with the groundbreaking for a 3,112 housing units in Karsana, Abuja

The Sokoto ground-breaking was one in a series of the ground-breaking ceremonies embarked upon by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. The ministry was earlier in Katsina, Kano, Yobe and Gombe States.

On jobs creation through the housing construction, the minister averred that, statistics has shown that the construction of one housing unit creates an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs.

“So, for these 250 housing units, we are hoping to create jobs for over 6,500 people in various trades. From professionals like architects, civil engineers, mechanical engineers to masons, plumbers, tilers, electricians etc," He stated.

He explained that, in housing construction there were numerous economic activities such as food vendors, blocks and cements suppliers, and other building materials suppliers that were being engaged and earning their daily life sustenance.

The Minister reiterared the passion of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grow the economy and ensure job creation in the country which he said the housing sector was one of the many avenues.

"With this housing programme, we plan to unlock the massive potential of housing development to create jobs, uplift lives and boost economic development" he remarked 

On the project, Dangiwa explained that the funding is from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget that the President has approved for the Ministry towards ensuring sustainability, quality and geographic spread.

He commended the Governor of Sokoto State for providing the land, and urged other state governors yet to provide land to do so, assuring that States that have not been covered under the 2023 Supplementary Budget, will be included in the 2024 budget of the Ministry.

The Minister also charged the Contractors, Messrs.Messrs Jewel Construction and Engineering Services, Abidcas Global Ventures Ltd, LY Construction and General Enterprises Ltd, and Three MPlus Integrated Services Ltd to ensure that they build according to specifications and deliver within three months timeline given.

On the housing units, Dangiwa explained that the Renewed Hope Estate comprises 50 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 150 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 50 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, designed in a way that makes it easy and affordable for people to offtake.

He also stated "We have used organic designs to allow for future expansion as the income of beneficiaries increases. What this means is that 1-bedroom can be expanded to 2 bedrooms and 2-bedrooms can also be expanded to 3 bedrooms as the owner’s financial situation improves or his family grows."

The Minister said that the Ministry has  created different options to enable everyone who has a source of income and livelihood to own these homes when they are completed. These include single-digit mortgage loans that beneficiaries can repay over 30-years, rent-to-own provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, and Outright Purchase options for those who can afford to pay upfront.

In his address, Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto represented, by his deputy, Alhaji Idris Muhammad Gobir, observed that the Federal Government through the Ministry has taken on the housing challenge with renewed vigour and is demonstrating strong commitment in the delivery of affordable housing and urban development.

He, while expressing gratitude to the Minister for making Sokoto state one of the early beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, noted that the state has also embarked on implementing several housing projects to provide housing for the people.

Governor Ahmad further assured the  Ministry of all the necessary support neededed  to ensure that the project is completed within the stipulated timelines.

On their part, the contractors thanked the ministry for prompt financial mobilization and promised to adhere to quality standards and stipulated time frames.

 “We want to assure the Minister that the project will be completed in three months,” said a spokesperson for the developers.

The ground-breaking across the five states, so far brings the total housing units to a total of 1,500 housing units on the first leg of the exercise.

The ground-breaking will continue in the other States selected under phase one  across the various geo-political zones. 

May

24

2024

Housing Ministry Takes Renewed Hope  Housing Project to Yobe 

 .....inaugurates 250 Housing Units Estate

The ongoing groundbreaking of the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Housing Project  across some states of the federation by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has landed in Yobe, with the inauguration of 250 housing units project by Governor, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, Friday,  May 24th, 2024.

Governor Buni who performed the foundation laying, expressed  profound gratitude and appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to address the housing deficit, and to provide Nigerians with decent accommodation especially in states like Yobe that suffered massive loss to the protracted security challenge.

Buni also appreciated the Minister of Housing , Arc Musa Dangiwa and his able team for the kind consideration of Yobe state in the first phase of the programme.

 " I am a keen follower of your activities and l am glad to say you have demonstrated great commitment to achieve your set goals" he stated

In his address, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo,, stated that the groundbreaking event was a part of  President Tinubu's comprehensive vision when he launched the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project with a 3,112-housing unit project in Karsana, Abuja, earlier this year.

He explained " Under Phase One, we plan to deliver a total of 50,000 housing units across Nigeria. The cities will have between 500 - 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country and the FCT, while the estates will have 250 units per site in the remaining thirty (30) states" 

Gwarzo described the Renewed Hope Estate in Yobe to comprise 50 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 150 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 50 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.

He mentioned that the housing units have been designed in a way that would ensure easy accessibility and  affordability for interested and potential off-taker, disclosing organic designs have been  adopted  to allow for future expansion as the income of beneficiaries increases.

 "What this means is that the 1-bedroom can be expanded to 2 bedrooms and a 2-bedroom expandable to 3 bedrooms as the owner’s financial situation improves or he grows in service," the Minister explained.

To enable everyone with a source of income and livelihood own a home at the completion of  these houses, the Minister revealed that government has created varieties of payment options which include single-digit mortgage loans with up to 30-year terms provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Rent-to-Own schemes, and Outright Purchase options for those who can afford to pay upfront. 

 The Minister, while giving assurance of the successful completion of these homes as well as their durability to ensure Nigerians have value for their money, disclosed that funding for the projects come from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development noting the  contracts for 3,500 housing units in 13 states.

Gwarzo expressed appreciation to the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni for promptly providing the land for the project at no cost, urging States government yet to provide land to do so as states that have not been covered under the 2023 Supplementary budget will be included in the 2024 budget. 

" This singular action has helped us to reduce as much as 30% of the cost of the units in this Estate for the benefit of potential homeowners. This is a dividend of responsible governance and I applaud Your Excellency," He enthused.

The Minister, while reiterating commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on job creation and reviving the economy, assured that the housing programme would create jobs, uplift lives and boost economic development in Yobe State, pointing out that opportunities were created for people with different businesses like food vendors, suppliers of blocks and building materials to be engaged in one economic activity or the other, thereby creating a big value chain effect.

"Statistics show that construction one housing unit creates an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs. So, for these 250 housing units we are hoping to create jobs for over 6,500 people," he noted.

The Minister also charged  the developers, Messrs. Katalyst Dynamics & Contracting Co. Ltd, Jikantiti Nigeria Limited, MB Yalwa Contractors Ltd, and 2 Horses Ventures Limited to ensure that they build according to specifications and deliver a quality job, adding that the work must be finished within the next three months so that process for offtake can begin.

Earlier in his address, Director, Planning,Research and Statistics, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Bala Saulawa revealed that the Ministry's aim is to turn Nigeria into a huge construction site  through the Renewed Hope Housing Cities and Estate programme, unlock the power of the housing sector to boost economic development and help  achieve President Tinubu's goal to build a $1 trillion economy.
 

May

24

2024

Welcome Remarks By The Director PRS, Alh. Mohammed Bala Saulawa at the Official Groundbreaking Ceremony Of The 250-Housing Unit Renewed Hope Estate In Yobe On Friday 24th May 2024

Protocols

Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, 

1.    I want to begin my remarks by specially welcoming the Executive Governor of Yobe State, His Excellency, Mai Mala Buni, CON. We are happy to have you here with us today.

2.    It is indeed my pleasure to welcome you all, on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, to the groundbreaking ceremony of this 250-housing unit Renewed Hope Estate, Yobe.

3.    This project is part of a Nationwide Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme of the Ministry, which His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, officially launched earlier this year in Abuja, under which we plan to deliver 50,000 housing units in phase one.

4.    Our broad aim through this programme is to turn the country into a huge construction site, unlock the power of the housing sector to create jobs, boost economic development, and help achieve Mr. President's goal to build a $1 trillion economy. 

5.    This 250-housing unit Renewed Hope Estate project Yobe, will create job opportunities during the construction phase for masons, bricklayers, plumbers, electricians, traders, and suppliers of building materials.

6.    Once again, Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, I want to thank you for sparing time out of your very busy schedules to be here with us today.

7.    Thank you, and God bless.
 

May

23

2024

WELCOME REMARKS BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF STATE, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ENGR. ABDULLAHI TIJJANI GWARZO, AT THE OFFICIAL GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY OF THE 500-HOUSING UNIT RENEWED HOPE CITY IN KANO ON THURSDAY 23^RD MAY 2024

Protocols

Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Distinguished Guests,

1. I want to begin my remarks by specially welcoming the Executive Governor of my dear State, Kano, His Excellency, Engr. Abba Yusuf. We are happy to have you here with us today.

2. As a son of the soil, it is indeed my pleasure to welcome you all, on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, to Kano State for the groundbreaking ceremony of this 500-housing unit Kano Renewed Hope City.

3. This project is part of a Nationwide Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme of the Ministry, which His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially launched earlier this year in Abuja, under which we plan to deliver 50,000 housing units in phase one.

4. During the launch of the Programme in Abuja, my Minister, my brother and friend, a close political ally, a dynamic leader and housing expert, who hails from our neighboring state, Arc. Dangiwa, told Mr. President that we plan to TURN THE COUNTRY INTO A HUGE CONSTRUCTION SITE.

5. As a professional, the Hon. Minister understands not only the importance of shelter to decent living but also the power of housing as a catalyst for development. Through this programme, we plan to unlock the power of the housing sector to create jobs, boost economic development, and help achieve Mr. President's goal to build a $1 trillion economy. And Kano, as a huge part of this country, will be seeing a lot of these projects, Insha Allah, with all the benefits that they bring.

6. In other words, this 500-housing unit Kano Renewed Hope City project will also encourage economic growth and opportunities. It will create job opportunities during the construction phase for masons, bricklayers, plumbers, electricians, traders, suppliers of building materials, and continue to generate economic benefits for the State and its citizens.

7. Beyond laying bricks, this project will offer a wide range of amenities that enhance the quality of life for the beneficiaries. It will provide the development of access roads, electricity, water supply, and other essential infrastructure that improve the standard of living.

8. I want to express our appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for giving us the opportunity to drive his vision for affordable housing for Nigerians. We are committed to justifying his confidence in us by bringing this vision of QUALITY HOUSING FOR ALL under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme to reality.

9. Thank you, and God bless.

May

22

2024

FG Launches 250 Units Renewed Hope Housing Estate in Katsina

.... Gov Radda commended FG's job creation through the project.

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, today, Wednesday,  May 22nd, 2024 launched 250 Units Renewed Hope Housing  Estate Project in Katsina State.

The ground-breaking was performed by the Katsina State Governor,  Dikko Umaru Radda, who commended the Federal government for the thousands of jobs created for the people in the State through the project 

In his address, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Musa Dangiwa, stated, "the Renewed Hope Estate in Katsina comprises 50 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 100 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 50 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows."

Dangiwa also explained that the housing units  have been  designed in a way that would make  it easy and affordable for interested off-takers to acquire seamlessly, noting organic designs are used to allow for future expansion as the income of beneficiaries increases.

" What this means is that the 1-bedroom can be expanded to 2 bedrooms and a 2-bedroom expandable to 3 bedrooms as the owner’s financial situation improves or he grows in service." He explained 

While appreciating the Federal Government for the project, Governor Radda stated that  the Renewed Hope Housing Project of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration across the States of the federation will have huge socio-economic impact on Nigerians.

Governor Radda, commended Minister Dangiwa for being a good Ambassador of Katsina State at the Federal level and for the good work he was able to achieved so far as a Minister of Housing 

On the other hand, the Minister charged the developers of the project, Messrs K-4 Engineering Ltd, WindLand Engineering & Properties Ltd, Real Phenomenon Integral Services Ltd and Saltine Engineering Services Ltd, to ensure that they build according to specifications and deliver a quality job as substandard work would not be tolerated.

 The Minister, while challenging them to be committed to the assignment before them, demanded that the project must be completed within the next three months to enable the Federal Government begin the process of offtake for Katsina indigenes.

Dangiwa said, that different payment options have been designed  to enable everyone who has a source of income and livelihood to own the homes when they are completed;  and they are  single-digit mortgage loans with up to 30-year terms provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Rent-to-Own schemes, and Outright Purchase options for those who can afford to pay upfront. 

The Minister said that performing the groundbreaking today in Katsina was extension of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's larger vision when he launched the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project with a 3,112 housing projects in Karsana, Abuja earlier this year.

He gave a breakdown of the project as;  "Under Phase One, we plan to deliver a total of 50,000 housing units across Nigeria. The cities will have between 500 - 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country and the FCT, while kethe estates will have 250 units per site in the remaining thirty (30) states."

On job creation, Dangiwa affirmed, "The Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme is designed to be a catalyst for economic growth, adfing,  each housing unit is to expected to create an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs, translating to approximately 6,250 jobs for the 250 units here in Katsina alone."

The Minister also disclosed that under the ongoing Renewed Hope Cities abd Estates project, there are  12 locations and 3 cities across the country. The estates include those in Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Abia, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Sokoto, Oyo, and Osun. The cities are in Abuja, Kano, and Lagos. 

Dangiwa mentioned that, in total,  the grounbreaking of 1,250 housing units wil be performed across the four states of the  North- west and North east, with Kano having 500 housing units, 250 units in Yobe, and another 250 units in Gombe.

According to the Minister, the funding for these projects comes from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, revealing further, the contracts  for  the construction of  3,500 housing units in thirteen states have been awarded which is a demonstration  of President Tinubu's commitment to roll out these developments nationwide. 

Commending Katsina's State Governor for providing the land promptly, Dangiwa urged other States to provide land for the projects, saying that states not covered under the 2023 Supplementary Budget will be included in the 2024 Budget.

May

22

2024

Remarks by The Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, At The Launch of The 250-Housing Unit Renewed Hope Estate In Katsina on Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024

Protocols

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.    Before I start, I would like to take time out to especially appreciate my dear friend, brother, and political ally, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Radda, for honoring our invitation to be a part of today’s event. Your Excellency, accept our gratitude. We thank you for the good work that you are doing for Katsina. The results are clear and visible. We are very proud of you. 

2.    Home, they say, and rightfully so is everything. And today, I am really excited to be home as a Katsina indigene and, by the special grace of Allah, the Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, to perform the groundbreaking for a 250-housing unit Renewed Hope Estate. 

3.    This is the first housing project that I will be breaking ground on here in Katsina since my appointment by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and I believe that with the continual support of His Excellency, the Governor, we shall be doing more. 

4.    This is also the first Renewed Hope Estate that I will be breaking ground on, and I am happy that I am doing so in my home state. It is said that all things start from home. 

5.    The Renewed Hope Estate in Katsina comprises 50 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 150 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 50 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.

6.    We have designed these housing units in a way that makes it easy and affordable for people to offtake. We have used organic designs to allow for future expansion as the income of beneficiaries increases. What this means is that the 1-bedroom can be expanded to 2 bedrooms and a 2-bedroom expandable to 3 bedrooms as the owner’s financial situation improves or he grows in service. I want to task the developers of this project, Messrs K-4 Engineering Ltd, WindLand Engineering & Properties Ltd, Real Phenomenon Integral Services Ltd and Saltine Engineering Services Ltd to ensure that they build according to specifications and delivers a quality job as substandard work will not be tolerated. We also want to have this work finished within the next three months so that we can begin the process of offtake for Katsina indigenes. 

7.    We have also created different options to enable everyone who has a source of income and livelihood to own the homes when they are completed. These include single-digit mortgage loans with up to 30-year terms provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Rent-to-Own schemes, and Outright Purchase options for those who can afford to pay upfront. 

8.    As you are aware, I had the privilege and honor of serving as the Managing Director/Chief Executive of FMBN, and it is my belief that Allah made me Minister of Housing and Urban Development to continue with the work that we did with the support of His Excellency, our former Governor, Rt. Hon. Bello Masari, as committed Katsina Progressives. 

9.    I want to say that today's event is part of a larger vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, when he launched the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project with a 3,112-housing unit project in Karsana, Abuja, earlier this year.

10.    Under Phase One, we plan to deliver a total of 50,000 housing units across Nigeria. The cities will have between 500 - 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country and the FCT, while the estates will have 250 units per site in the remaining thirty (30) states. 

11.    The Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme is designed to be a catalyst for economic growth. Each housing unit is expected to create an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs, translating to approximately 6,250 jobs for the 250 units here in Katsina alone. 

12.    Nationwide, we currently have estates in 12 locations and 3 cities across the country. The estates include those in Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Abia, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Sokoto, Oyo, and Osun. The cities are in Abuja, Kano, and Lagos. 

13.    After here, we will be in Kano to do groundbreaking for 500 housing units, 250 units in Yobe, and another 250 units in Gombe. In total, we are breaking ground for 1,250 housing units across four states in Northern Nigeria. These projects will serve as catalysts for economic growth, job creation, and social development in our communities.

14.    The funding for these projects comes from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. We have already awarded contracts for 3,500 housing units in thirteen states, demonstrating our commitment to rolling out these developments nationwide. States not covered under the 2023 Supplementary Budget will be included in the 2024 Budget, and I urge all State Governments yet to provide land for these projects to do so promptly.

15.    At this juncture, I also want to appreciate and thank His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State, for promptly granting our request for the provision of land at no cost. Your Excellency, we appreciate your commitment to embracing initiatives that bring development to our dear State. 

16.    Before I close my remarks, I want to thank and appreciate our President for providing the vision and the political will necessary for us to make a difference in terms of delivering decent and quality housing to Nigerians.

Long live Katsina and His Excellency, the Executive Governor.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live Mr. President.
 

May

21

2024

President Tinubu Meets with Housing Minister of State, Discusses National Development

ABUJA, NIGERIA - In a meeting at the State House today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu received the Honorable Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, who briefed him on the progress made in the housing sector.

The meeting focused on critical national issues, including security challenges, agricultural development, and infrastructure growth. President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these challenges and ensuring economic growth and food security for all Nigerians.

The Honorable Minister highlighted the significant strides made in providing affordable housing options, promoting urban development, and creating economic opportunities. The President commended the Minister's efforts and reiterated his support for the housing sector.

The meeting also touched on political issues, with a focus on strengthening party unity and solidarity. President Tinubu's wisdom and experience were evident as he navigated the complexities of political dynamics.

The meeting was a productive and enlightening experience, demonstrating the administration's dedication to driving progress and development in Nigeria.

May

18

2024

Dangiwa Advocates Inclusive Urban Planning, Fair Land Management Strategies at World Bank Land Conference in Washington

At the World Bank Land Conference held in Washington, DC, from 13th to 17th May 2024, the Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development of Nigeria, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa urged African governments to prioritize inclusive urban planning and fair land management strategies as part of measures to combat the effects of climate change, urbanization, and conflicts. 

Speaking at the high-level Ministerial Africa Regional Workshop on the future of land administration in addressing urbanization, climate change, conflicts, and food security, Dangiwa stated that the way Africa countries manage land in the future needs to consider everything from how cities are growing, to climate change, conflicts and ensuring food sustainability. 

He detailed Nigeria’s ongoing and future land reform initiatives.

“In Nigeria, we have embarked on a comprehensive land reforms programme that aims to make access to land easy, accessible, and equitable,” Dangiwa said. “A couple of months ago, we set up a Land Reforms Task Team with the mandate to produce a comprehensive blueprint for these reforms. The team comprises sector experts, traditional institutions, and state governments who are custodians of the land.”

A crucial part of this initiative is the review of the Land Use Act of 1978, the governing law for land administration in Nigeria. The Act is obsolete, and we aim to review it. As part of the reform process, we also want to set up a National Land Commission to operationalize the law after it has been reviewed.” He emphasized that these efforts are essential for the new government as they prepare the blueprint for implementation.

To address the broader challenges, Arc. Dangiwa highlighted the necessity of a comprehensive and holistic approach to land administration. He stated that inclusive urban planning and fair land management strategies must be prioritized. This involves ensuring efficient land allocation and titling systems, as well as integrating informal settlements into formal urban frameworks to provide access to basic services and infrastructure for all citizens.

Furthermore, with climate change causing problems like desertification and flooding, the Hon. Minister stressed the need to invest more in sustainable land practices and resilient infrastructure. This includes planting more trees, adhering to green building standards, and incorporating nature-based solutions in city planning to reduce environmental risks.

Regarding conflict resolution, Dangiwa pointed out that conflicts over land ownership are common in Nigeria and other African countries due to weak legal frameworks. He called for better land governance and fair dispute resolution mechanisms to promote social harmony and prevent violent clashes.

In terms of food security, he highlighted the importance of optimizing land utilization for agricultural purposes amidst population growth and environmental pressures. This involves supporting smallholder farmers with secure land tenure, facilitating access to credit and inputs, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices to enhance productivity while safeguarding natural resources.

 The Hon. Minister stressed the importance of a multifaceted approach to land management. He stated, “The way we manage land in the future needs to consider everything from urban growth to climate change, conflicts, and food security. We can achieve this by including everyone in decision-making, being mindful of the environment, and ensuring fairness. This approach will help us tackle these challenges and build a stronger, more prosperous future for all.”

The Africa Regional Workshop was chaired by Iain Shuker (Regional Director for Sustainable Development in Eastern and Southern Africa, World Bank) on the closing day of the World Bank Land Conference, Friday 17th May 2022.

Other speakers at the panel discussion included  the Eunice Andrade Silva, Minister, of Housing Cape Verde, Ethiopia: Fenta Dejene, State Minister for Urban Development and Construction, Malawi: Deus Gumba, Minister for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Sierra Leone: Turad Senesie, Minister for Lands, Housing, and Country Planning and Uganda: Judith Nabakooba, Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development.

May

15

2024

Retirement Offers Exceptional Individuals Enjoy Fruits of their Labour - Gwarzo 

Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, has described retirement as a deserved opportunity for exceptional individuals to rest, reflect and enjoy the fruits of their labour.

The Minister made the remarks at the send forth ceremony organised by the Ministry for a retiring Director and Head of Department of Engineering Services,  Engr Cyril Ogu Onyeneke 

Engr. Onyeneke retired from Federal service after completing his normal service life cycle at 60 years

Gwarzo described the outgoing director as an exceptional and humble man, who  dedicated his life to the service of the Nation.

He also commended the Director for the proficiency he exhibited in his skills throughout his service years, stating that he was leaving a vital role in the Engineering department of the Ministry.

While expresing sadness that the Director would be greatly missed, he further wished him a retirement filled with peace, happiness and fulfillment of expression and best of luck in his future endeavors.

“As we bid you farewell from the civil Service, we do so with deep gratitude and profound respect, your contribution has left an indelible mark in our Ministry and the Nation at large; 

As you embark on this journey, I have full confidence that your wealth of knowledge and experience would continue to positively impact the society in different capacity” Gwarzo stated Earlier in a welcome remark, Director Planning, Research and Statistics, Bala Muhammad Saulawa who represented the Permanent Secretary,, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, wished Engr. Onyeneke a very happy, successful and enjoyable life after retirement.

He prayed that those still in service will also live to celebrate a successful retirement in due time.

Delivering his vote of thanks, the retiring Director Engr. Cyril Onyenke expressed happiness that he was leaving the service in a glorious way and a satisfied Man.

He thanked the Honorable Ministers for their tutelage, the Permanent Secretary, his fellow directors as well as his subordinates in the engineering department for their cooperation during the course of their work.

The event was graced by some retired Directors, serving Directors and staff of the Ministry, family, friends and well wishers of the celebrant, who wished him well in his future endeavours.

May

10

2024

OPENING REMARKS BY THE PERMANENT SECRETARY, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, DR. MARCUS O. OGUNBIYI, FNIAE, R.Eng. AT THE SECTOR RETREAT ON IMPLEMENTATION OF PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM  HELD AT THE BENTLY HOTEL ABUJA ON FRIDAY, 10TH MAY, 2024

PROTOCOLS

It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this very important Ministerial retreat on the implementation of a modern Performance Management System (PMS) as a tool for appraising employee performance and the delivery of institutional and presidential mandates in the Federal Public Service.  The new PMS is a bold step to institutionalize the principle of service, output and outcome-oriented operations in Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies (MDAs) by creating systems and processes that support delivery of services in a more efficient and effective manner. The PMS provides a systematic process of planning work, setting targets, providing support to employees and measuring results. 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.

2. As we are all aware, the new PMS is expected to replace the Annual Performance Evaluation Report System (APER) which is the appraisal mechanism in the Public Service over the last four decades.  Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, institutionalization of a new performance management system is at the heart of the on-going reform initiatives and culture re-orientation in the Public Service. This is to ensure appropriate linkage of key government tools towards the attainment of national development goals, and to entrench an accountability driven, result oriented, high performance and merit-based system as well as fairness and transparency in employee performance evaluation and management in the Public Service. I am pleased to inform you that the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and indeed all the Agencies in the Sector are committed to the successful implementation of the PMS and other reforms activities towards bequeathing to the nation, a world class Public Service that is repositioned to deliver efficient services as the backbone of the Government.

3. I am glad to inform you that a number of critical documents, which are essential to successful implementation of the Performance Management System service wide have all been put in place by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Among these are the PMS Policy, PMS Implementation Guidelines and Frameworks. These documents are to assist us to effectively and successfully implement this all important presidential deliverable. I am bold to say that we are familiar with these document which are very robust tools for the deployment of the new appraisal system.

4. We are gathered here today as critical stakeholders in the Housing and Urban Development Sector to further discuss and understand the new system and our roles for a successful roll out, implementation and institutionalization of the new appraisal system in the Federal Public Service

5. I want to appreciate the officers from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Heads of Agencies and Directors here present, who have taken time out of their very busy schedules to attend this retreat.  It is our belief that our collective efforts in supporting the process of institutionalization of the new appraisal system will put the Service on a path of sustainable and improved service delivery to the Nigerian citizens.

6. Once again, I welcome you all and wish us all fruitful deliberations.

May

08

2024

Gwarzo Inaugurates Implementation Committee For Renewed Hope Housing  Project.

Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo has
inaugurated members of the Renewed Hope Housing Project Implementation Committee, comprising representatives of select departments in the Ministry and the Project Development partners.

The minister charged the committee members on the need to show commitment, diligence, compassion and excellence in discharging their duties.

Among the terms of reference for the implementation committee is to monitor the practical progress of the Renewed Hope Estates and Cities Housing project being developed in Karsana, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory 

The committee was also charged with the responsibility to formulate comprehensive strategies that will drive forward the housing agenda and in particular the speedy completion of the 3112 Renewed Hope Estates and Cities project. 

In his remarks, the Minister, acknowledged the significance of the Committee in addressing the housing needs of the citizens, stating that access to safe and affordable housing is a cornerstone of sustainable development and social cohesion.

He reminded members of the Committee not to forget the transformative power of Housing to provide shelter and security, foster stability, provide sense of belonging and most importantly empower individuals and families to pursue their aspirations, contribute to their communities and build brighter futures.

Similarly, Gwarzo also encouraged the Committee to carry out its responsibilities with optimism, determination and a shared sense of purpose in order to achieve meaningful strides towards ensuring that every individual has access to a safe, affordable and dignified place to call home.

" By working collaboratively and harnessing our collective wisdom, I am confident that we can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and create a more equitable and sustainable future for all through the Housing and Urban Development sectors" he stated 

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi stated that the project in Karsana is speedily and commendably progressing. He said the project site is working towards meeting the completion deadline, preparatory for commissioning by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by December.

Ogunbiyi  highlighted some of the Committee's  Terms of Reference which includes: Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Monthly Project Review Meetings, Overseeing the profiling and identification of project off-takers, among others.

Responding on behalf of the Committee members, the Consultant for the consortium and Principal Partner of C23 Consultants Limited, Damola Akindolire assured the Honourable minister of the prompt delivery of the project within the earmarked period 

He said the commitment of the ministry shows that through collaboration and partnership, Nigerians can benefit atmost and have access to affordable housing. 

"The Renewed Hope is not just a Rhetoric but a commitment by the present administration under the leadership of the Minister to give Nigerians a sign of relief that houses can be available and affordable” he stated 

May

06

2024

Dangiwa Chairs First Session of 2024 UN-Habitat Executive Board Meeting in Nairobi

The First Session of the 2024 Executive Board Meeting of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme has commenced in Nairobi under the Chairmanship of Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, Nigeria’s Minister of Housing and Urban Development. The session is being held at the UN-Habitat Headquarters from May 6th to 8th, 2024.

In his opening remarks at the meeting, Arc. Dangiwa tasked members of the Executive Board of UN-Habitat to redouble efforts towards repositioning the organization as an impactful global tool for tackling human settlements’ challenges in a structured and sustainable manner.

“As members of the Executive Board, I must draw our collective attention to the fact that our nations, at this time, are among the privileged few tasked with the important responsibility for the regular supervision of the global human settlements agenda. We have a moral obligation to approach this duty with our best efforts, utmost sincerity, and the highest responsibility for the good of mankind. To this end, during my Chairmanship, I intend to pursue global collaboration in partnership with the various regional and political groups, and I would count on your support as I look forward to active engagement to bring this organization to its rightful footing,” he said.

The Minister, who also doubles as the Chair of the 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) Bureau of the Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB), noted that he sees his unique positions as an opportunity to forge strategic alliances that are beneficial to actualizing the mandate of UN-Habitat.

“I do not count it a coincidence that as the Minister of Housing and Urban Development of the most populous country in Africa, I also Chair the AGM Bureau of Shelter Afrique Development Bank, and I now Chair the Executive Board of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme. I see these strategic alignments as a call to maximize the opportunities my current positions afford me to promote more beneficial global collaborations, more international attention, and hopefully, more funding for UN-Habitat,” he noted.

The UN-Habitat Executive Board is a legislative body of UN-Habitat. It comprises 36 member states elected by the UN-Habitat Assembly with 10 seats for Africa, one of which is occupied by Nigeria currently producing the Chair, 8 seats for Asia and Pacific States, 4 seats for Eastern European States, 6 seats for Latin America and Carribean States, and 8 Seats for Western European and other States. Nigeria has been a member of the Executive Board since 2019 and was granted a renewed term of two years in 2023 until 2025.

The body convenes three times a year to oversee the implementation of the normative and operational activities of UN-Habitat, ensure accountability, transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness, approve and oversee the implementation of the annual programme of work and budget of the organization. 

Notable issues slated for discussion at the first session of the 2024 Board Meeting include financial, budgetary, and administrative matters, including the implementation of the resource mobilization strategy in accordance with the strategic plan for the period 2020–2025 and actions by UN- Habitat to address geographical and gender imbalances in the composition of its staff; updates on the draft work program of UN-Habitat and the draft budget of the United Nations Habitat and Human Settlements Foundation for 2025, progress on the strategic plan of UN-Habitat for the period 2026–2029, and implementation of the normative and operational activities of UN-Habitat, including reporting on its programmatic activities in 2023 and the implementation of subprograms, flagship programs, and technical cooperation activities.

The meeting will also review the implementation of the United Nations development system reform in UN-Habitat and actions taken by UN-Habitat to strengthen protection against sexual and any other type of exploitation and abuse and against sexual harassment in the workplace.

The opening session had attendance representatives of the 36 member countries, the Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development of the Republic of Kenya, Hon. Alice Wahome who welcomed the members on behalf of the Kenyan President His Excellency, William Ruto. 
 

May

02

2024

Dangiwa Inaugurares 14th Council of  Architects Registration Council of  Nigeria, ARCON

….   charges them to maintain peace, selflessness and professionalism.

Housing and Urban Development Minister, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has inaugurated the 14th Council members of the Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), with a charge to strive to be selfless, professional and focused on the interest of the profession, the country and the teeming Architects therein, in the conduct of their assignment.

ARCON is a statutory body established to Regulate the activities of the Architectural Profession in Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Minister acknowledged the importance and critical nature of the Architectural profession to national development, noting that the Council was created to assist in promoting the development and growth of the profession in the country because the Government recognised the need to regulate and maintain standards in the built environment, which is a major driver of economic growth.

“The Architects Registration Act Chapter A19, Laws of The Federation of Nigeria 2004, heralded by Decree Number 10 of 1969, mandates the Council to determine what standards of knowledge and skills persons seeking to become members of the architectural profession need to attain. The Act also empowers the Council to raise those standards from time to time as circumstances may permit”, he said.

While reminding members of the Council of the high responsibility that comes with their nominations, the Minister tasked them to live up to the expectations of the architectural profession as well as the trust bestowed on them by contributing meaningfully towards policies that will promote and enshrine standards and quality in the housing sector.

Dangiwa drew the attention of the Council to the fact that the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria Act 2004 needed immediate amendment in order to align its mandate with present realities, while assuring that the Ministry under his watch would encourage an urgent commencement of work on the amendment.

In his words, “We should incorporate the right to exist and function with the common objective of promoting the Profession, in accordance with the provision of Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution as amended (which give Right to Freedom of Association)”.

Accordingly, the Minister highlighted the incessant incidences of building collapse to the Council, pointing out that it has not only led to loss of lives and waste of resources but has also brought shame to the profession and the housing sector;
 “this Council must therefore be committed from inception to play its part by promoting accountability, transparency through the implementation of initiatives that would enhance good governance in the built environment by bringing registered architects to uphold ethical conduct and integrity”, he warned.

Dangiwa further charged members of the Council to ensure that there is peace, unity and orderliness in the house of Architecture in Nigeria in order to make meaningful progress. 

“Let us resolve not to sacrifice the profession on the altar of pecuniary interests even as we strive to ensure fairness, equity and balance”, he admonished.

On their part, the Registrar of the Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Umar Murnai expressed happiness that the inauguration has come to reality.

He charged the members of the Council to ensure that the they work towards the improvement of the architectural profession in Nigeria, and to uphold their responsibilities of training and improving the profession.

Murnai further assured the Minister that the new council would also enhance on upholding accountability and transparency in the course of their duties.

Jun

11

2024

Opening Remarks by The Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, Outgoing Bureau Chair of The 42nd AGM, at The 43rd Annual General Meeting of Shelter Afrique Development Bank (SHAFDB) on Tuesday 11th June 2024 Holding At The Marriott Hotel In Kigali, Rwanda

Protocols:

Esteemed Guests, Honored Delegates, and Colleagues, all protocols observed,

1.    It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the Shelter Afrique Development Bank’s 43rd Annual General Meeting holding here in Kigali, the Capital of Rwanda. 

2.    I am especially delighted to finally see so many of you, for the first time in person. Your presence here today and in the coming days demonstrates a commitment to the growth of this bank. 

3.    ShafDB is Africa’s housing finance bank, the only such institution that we have. It is therefore important that we all continue to give the bank all the support that it requires to grow, scale in impact and deliver on its mandate. Particularly, this support, I believe, is critical to our efforts as Ministers of Housing to leverage private sector finance towards providing affordable, decent and quality housing to our people across Africa.

4.    Before I go on, I would like to on behalf of the 42nd AGM Bureau and the Management of ShafDB, sincerely thank the President of the Republic of Rwanda, His Excellency, Paul Kagame, and the Government of Rwanda for agreeing to host this 43rd AGM. The beauty, neatness and orderliness of Kigali and its hospitality is simply breathtaking. 

5.    I would also like to extend my profound gratitude to the ShafDB Board of Directors under the leadership of Dr. Chii Akporji for their support throughout my tenure as Chairperson of the 42nd AGM Bureau. With their support, we were able to accomplish great milestones and guide the bank towards a path of clarity and reform. 

6.    I must also acknowledge the exceptional efforts, drive and dynamism of our Managing Director, Thierno Habib Hann. Over the course of my time as AGM Bureau Chair, I have seen Mr. Hann demonstrate an untiring dedication, innovation and leadership that I believe is necessary to achieving the goals of a transformed ShafDB. 

7.    I want to acknowledge and commend the contributions of ShafDB management and staff. Their collective efforts contributed significantly to the successful transition from Shelter Afrique to Shelter Afrique Development Bank. To all of you, I extend my deepest appreciation.

8.    I am pleased to inform you that during the Extraordinary General Assembly in Algiers, member States overwhelmingly supported the ratification of our new statutes. This consensus is a significant milestone in our journey to establish the Shelter Afrique Development Bank. Our discussions went beyond words. We recorded concrete measures to expedite the ratification process. It is important that we foster transparent dialogue about our current state and identify additional steps to enhance our progress.

9.    Although we anticipated completing the ratification process within a few months, we find ourselves still awaiting full ratification. As of yesterday, only a few countries had ratified the Statutes. This situation poses challenges that we must quickly address. 

10.    Building robust alliances is essential for our success. I thank all member States for their financial contributions and support. I am proud to report that our Bank recorded a profit last year, a feat that was once considered impossible. 

11.    Looking ahead, it is important that we sustain and maintain a momentum of growth. I am optimistic and anticipate that the new Chair of 43rd AGM Bureau, Hon. Dr. Jimmy Gasore, possesses the capacity to effectively guide this revitalization process. 

12.    Our financial report highlights our unique assets, which position us for global success. The key question is how we can best leverage these resources to benefit our member States. On this too, I am confident that the new leadership will provide the management with the support they require to maximize impact. 

13.    During the course of the AGM, we plan to launch a Financial Caucus of African Ministers of Housing and Urban Development. I believe that this platform will help us create synergy, tap from our collective and unique strengths to fashion out innovative ways and measures to bolster housing development in our respective countries. 

14.    Like I said at the EGM in Algiers, the African housing problem is for Africa to solve. And we as Ministers of Housing must recognize that we are the ones responsible to providing the solutions and driving the process towards fixing Africa’s housing challenge. What this means is that we must work together. We must share experiences, challenges, lessons and solutions. We must combine efforts in our engagements with external stakeholders and maximize our engagements. We must seek to tap the immense benefits that come from working as a unified group towards solving the African housing problem. Working in silos is no longer an option. This is because as Africans, we are one. We have a common continent; we have a common destiny, and our progress or backwardness reflects on us all. 

15.    At the end of this AGM, we also plan to have a Kigali Declaration to signify and communicate our collective desire to Prioritize housing development and commit to taking concrete steps towards making a substantial difference. The Kigali Declaration aims to unify our voices to achieve common goals and tackle shared challenges. It seeks to highlight to the global community the urgent need for coordinated action on climate change, emphasizing its impact on Africa.  

16.    It is important to state that the Kigali Declaration will not just be words on paper. We have ensured that it is based on a well-prepared roadmap for "How to Finance and Deliver," leveraging the professional expertise around Shelter Afrique Development Bank. Our aim is to make a difference. Our aim is to create impact and build a new and more progressive narrative that delivers concrete results in terms of homes for our people, jobs and economic empowerment. And this, I believe is possible. 

17.    Importantly, with the existential threat of climate change, the housing industry serves a key lever to achieve the climate ambition and sustainability targets of the region.

18.    As we deliberate during this AGM, I implore us to always strive for compromise and ensuring a commitment to upholding the laws and statutes that hold us together. As a big organization with shareholding of over 44 independent and sovereign countries, we must all commit to staying within the boundaries of what the laws state. 

19.    Before I conclude, I want to express my gratitude to all those who continue to participate in our collaborative efforts, despite occasional disagreements about our direction. Your commitment strengthens us and propels us forward.

20.    Our achievements over the past year underscore the importance of strategic planning and building strong connections. Perseverance through challenges and setbacks is crucial. This year, we have reached several objectives we can be proud of.

21.    Despite our successes, we must remain vigilant and not rest on our laurels. New and existing challenges will continue to emerge. It is vital to sustain our current relationships and cultivate new ones.

22.    Regardless of the decisions we make, I am confident that we will make them together, as a united body.

Thank you.
Honorable Minister Arch. Ahmed Dangiwa

Jun

09

2024

Slums Ugrade, Urban Renewal Projects,  Impactful on Living Conditions of People  - Dangiwa 

..... advocates amendments to national urban planning

Minister of Housing and Urban Development Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has stated that slums upgrade and urban renewal projects have significant impact on the lives and living conditions of the people. 

He listed housing upgrade, sanitation, environmental protection, agricultural support, boreholes and solar powered street lights among others, as projects that will enhance aesthetics and functional spaces, as well as impact the economy.

Dangiwa spoke when he hosted the House of Representatives Commitee on Urban Development and Regional Planning who came on an oversight visit to the Ministry.

The minister, in this regard, advocates for constitutional amendment to ensure urban and regional planning is placed in the concurrent list of the constitution and also called for an enactment of a bill for the establishment of National Urban Observatory that would collect urban sector data in order to have effective implementation of urban and regional planning projects.

Accordingly, Dangiwa listed some of the challenges affecting effective implementation of urban development projects as; non availability of reliable human settlements data-store for planning purposes, and inadequate policy back-up and structure for country wide efforts to reposition urban planning and regional development sector, for the benefit of all.

Similarly, the Minister explained some of the activities of the ministry's department of urban development and regional planning which includes, Preparation of National Physical Development Plan, Preparation of Physical Development Plans, Preparation of Urban Resilience and Sustainability Plans.

He further stated that the department is also engaged in Urban Sector Multilateral programmes like; Executive Board Meetings of UN HABITAT, which Nigeria is currently holding the Chair of the Executive Board;  Shelter Afrique (A Pan- African finance)
Development Control Directorate, responsible for monitoring and control of development on Federal Government Lands and Estates;  Urban Renewal and Slum Upgrading Programme, under which technical needs assessment studies of Slums in Nigerian cities were conducted.

Earlier, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Urban Development and Regional Planning,  Honourable Abiante Awaji, said the Committee was in the ministry to fulfill it's  critical part of it's oversight mandate to assess performance, establish effective utilization of resources, identify challenges with a view to ensuring service delivery that would impact the lives of the Nigerian citizens.

He stated that the Oversight Visit was in furtherance of Constitutional mandate of the legislative arm of the government overseeing activities of the executive arm.
 

May

29

2024

Gombe Gets FG's 250-Units Renewed Hope Housing Estate 

…..... Project, a solution to housing deficit in the State - Gov Inuwa 
 

Gombe State, North Eastern Nigeria is among the beneficiaries of the first phase of the Renewed Hope Housing Project of the federal government, as the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development formally launched a 250 units housing estate in the state. 

The Executive Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya performed the official ground-breaking for the housing estate along side the Minister and Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development,  Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa and Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo respectively. 
 

Minister Dangiwa stated that the groundbreaking was part of the Nationwide Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, which His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR officially flagged-off in February 2024, with the groundbreaking for a 3,112-housing unit in Karsana, Abuja.

In his remarks, Arc. Dangiwa explained that the Renewed Hope City in Gombe State will constitute 50 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 150 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 50 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, all designed organically to allow for future expansion as the income of beneficiaries increases, and in a way that makes it easy and affordable for people to off-take.
 

He emphasized the need for the developers Messrs. Zurfat Investments Limited, Simba Synergy Limited, Baba Alhaji Nigeria Limited and Messrs Absuh Nigeria Limited to adhere strictly to quality standards and specifications, urging them also to complete the work within the three months timeline to enable Gombe indigenes purchase and move in.

The Minister listed out the various purchase options for buyers in order to make the home ownership accessible, which includes single-digit mortgage loans that beneficiaries can repay over 30-years, rent-to-own provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, and Outright Purchase options, for those who can afford to pay upfront. 

Dangiwa mentioned that the Phase One aims to deliver 50,000 housing units across Nigeria. The cities are to have between 500 - 1,000 housing units per site in one location, in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country and the FCT, while the estates will have 250 units per site in the remaining thirty (30) States. 

On the economic importance of the housing construction, he said “ With this housing programme, we plan to unlock the massive potential of housing development to create jobs, uplift lives and boost economic development”

He also informed that Renewed Hope Estates are cited in 12 States while the Renewed Hope Cities are cited in 3 States. The estates are in Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Abia, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Sokoto, Oyo, and Osun States, while the Cities are in Abuja, Kano, and Lagos. 

Accordingly, he also stated " In total, we are breaking ground for 1,500 housing units across five States in Northern Nigeria, on this first leg of the exercise"

Dangiwa further reiterated the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensuring Nigerians own decent, and affordable homes, saying that funding for the projects comes from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development

He also assured that States which have not been covered under the 2023 Supplementary Budget will be included in the Ministry’s 2024 Budget.

 “ I therefore urge all State Governments yet to provide land for these projects to do so as we work to kick-start the next round”, he added.

The Minister appreciated Governor Inuwa Yahaya for providing land at no cost for the project, stating that it has significantly reduced the overall cost of the housing units.

According to him, “This singular action has helped  to reduce as much as 30% of the cost of the units in this Estate for the benefit of potential homeowners, this is a dividend of responsible governance and I applaud Your Excellency for this”.

Accordingly, Dangiwa  thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the vision and the political will to make a difference in terms of delivering decent and quality housing to Nigerians. 

“The Groundbreaking ceremonies for these projects demonstrate that Mr. President and indeed the Federal government of Nigeria is committed to fulfilling its promises and responsibilities to all Nigerians”, he said.

In his remarks, Gombe State Governor, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, applauded the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Renewed Hope Housing Agenda, and also for the commitment to make the houses affordable.

Governor Yahaya further urged the people of Gombe State to see the groundbreaking as a solution to housing problem in the state

May

26

2024

Dangiwa Affirms Commitment to the Vision of Housing Ministry 

..... outlines strategies, significant achievements by the housing ministry

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has affirmed commitment to the vision of the Housing Ministry which is to create an efficient housing market that gives all Nigerians the right to a secure, decent, and affordable home as a platform for active participation in economic development.

Dangiwa, also outlined the significant strides made by his ministry in advancing the Renewed Hope Housing Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. 

He spoke during the Ministerial Press briefing in Abuja, organised by the Minister of Information and National Orientation.

Dangiwa mentioned that the strategy of the housing ministry to move the housing sector forward revolves around three core pillars which are;  growing the economy, lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty, and creating an enabling environment, affirming that the Renewed Hope Housing Programme is designed to be a catalyst for economic growth. 

According to the Minister, the launching of the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Development Programme earlier this year by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Karsana, Abuja, will deliver, under phase one, a total of 50,000 housing units across Nigeria.

Giving a detail description of the projects,  Dangiwa said that the Cities will have 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geo-political zones in the country and FCT, while the Estates will have 500 housing units per site in the remaining thirty (30) States.

"We have designed the Renewed Hope Cities as integrated living communities targeting all income brackets. They comprise one-bedroom blocks of flats, two-bedroom blocks of flats and three- bedroom blocks of flats; two-, three- and four-bedroom terraces, four-bedroom duplexes, and five-bedroom duplexes," he added.

He also explained "To  enhance affordability and ease of offtake, we used organic designs where one bedroom can be expanded to two-bedrooms and three-bedrooms as  the income of beneficiaries increase over time”.

Dangiwa also spelt out a cross subsidy plan that will allow housing units built under the Renewed Hope Cities to be sold at commercial rate and a substantial percentage to be sold at concessionary rates to low- and medium-income Nigerians who are members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

Accordingly, he said that the construction and development of new areas, cities and estates will generate employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and attract investments.

" The 50,000 units to deliver under phase 1 will create 1,250,000 direct and indirect construction jobs. This is in addition to the value chain effects of purchase, supply of building materials, businesses around the construction sites,"  he explained 

Dangiwa also revealed that the recent launch of an Online Housing Portal by the Ministry was to ease the process of acquiring homes that are built under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme. 

To achieve inclusivity in the housing sector, the Minister further stated that, the creation of a National Social Housing Fund (NSHF) was to ensure that all Nigerians including those with no income, the vulnerable and underprivileged groups have access to decent and dignified accommodation, saying that President Tinubu believes that access to decent shelter is not only a necessity but a human right and all Nigerians across all income segments deserve a decent home to live and grow.

He also listed the potential sources of funds for the National Social Housing Fund to  include; Gains from the removal of fuel subsidy, Profit after tax from pension fund administrator investments, Contributions from corporate bodies and institutions as part of their corporate social responsibility,

Public Private Partnerships, International donor support and Government allocation, amongst others.

On National Housing Program (NHP), the Minister spoke about the advertisement of Expression of Interest forms with 4 (four) windows of subscription giving room for all income segments; he said the  Outright payment got 1,294, Mortgage 2,408, Rent– to– Own got 2,148 and Installment payments, 3039 expression of interests. 

He noted that the first batch of Offer of New Provisional Allocation Letters were released last month for successful applicants under the Outright Payment option.

Furthermore,  Dangiwa reviewed the inauguration of a housing reform task teams namely: Building Materials Manufacturing Task Team, Housing Institutions Reform Task Team, Multi-Agency Project Delivery Team and Land Reforms Task Team; that would ensure repositioning and optimizing performance of the Ministry to deliver on the target of providing affordable homes to Nigerians.

He stated some of the obligations of the task team which includes a thorough review of relevant laws and facilitation of necessary legislative amendments such as The Land Use Act, 1978, National Housing Fund (NHF) Act,1992, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) Establishment Act, 1993, Driving Nationwide adoption and passage of the foreclosure law in states, amongst others.

He further revealed that the Task Teams have sent in preliminary reports and will conclude their assignments soon, assuring that the Ministry is committed to implementing the stated reforms and initiatives to change the landscape of the housing sector for good and deliver the Renewed Hope Agenda for Housing and Urban Development.

On Slum Upgrade Programme,  Dangiwa also disclosed that the Ministry is set to embark on National Slum Upgrade Programme in 26 sites nationwide under the phase one of the programme, highlighting the key services to be  provided as water supply, solar streetlights, rehabilitation of access roads, construction of drainages, waste management and sanitation services, amongst others.

In assuring Nigerians of successful and prompt completion of the Renewed Hope Housing Cities and Estates, the Minister mentioned that government has approved the total sum of 126.5bn from the 2023 supplementary and 2024 budgets for these projects including slum upgrade and urban renewal, maintaining, "Nationwide, we currently have estates in 12 States and Cities in 3." He added 

The estates are sited in Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Abia, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Sokoto, Oyo, and Osun while the cities are in Abuja, Yobe, and Lagos. 

The Minister further mentioned that Contractors have been mobilized and have commenced work to deliver a total of 3,500, revealing that work has commenced for 3,112 housing units under the PPP, bringing the total number of housing units currently under construction to 6,612. 

May

24

2024

Remarks By The Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, Represented by the Hon. Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Engr. Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, at the Launch of The 250-Housing Unit Renewed Hope Estate in Yobe On Friday, May 24th  2024

Protocols

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.    First, I would like to thank His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni CON, for honoring our invitation to be a part of today’s event. 

2.    I am very excited to be here as the Hon. Minister of State representing the Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa to perform the groundbreaking for a 250-housing unit Renewed Hope Estate. 

3.    The Renewed Hope Estate in Yobe comprises of 50 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 150 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 50 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.

4.    We have designed these housing units in a way that makes it easy and affordable for people to offtake. We have used organic designs to allow for future expansion as the income of beneficiaries increases. What this means is that the 1-bedroom can be expanded to 2 bedrooms and a 2-bedroom expandable to 3 bedrooms as the owner’s financial situation improves or he grows in service. 

5.    As we break the ground on this project, I want to charge the developers, Messrs. Katalyst Dynamics & Contracting Co. Ltd, Jikantiti Nigeria Limited, MB Yalwa Contractors Ltd, and 2 Horses Ventures Limited to ensure that they build according to specifications. I expect you to deliver a quality job because we will not tolerate substandard. We also want you to have this work finished within the next three months so that we can begin the process of getting Yobe indigenes to purchase and move in. 

6.    We have created different options to enable everyone who has a source of income and livelihood to own these homes when they are completed. These include single-digit mortgage loans with up to 30-year terms provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Rent-to-Own schemes, and Outright Purchase options for those who can afford to pay upfront. 

7.    I want to state that today's groundbreaking event is part of a larger vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, when he launched the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project with a 3,112-housing unit project in Karsana, Abuja, earlier this year.

8.    Under Phase One, we plan to deliver a total of 50,000 housing units across Nigeria. The cities will have between 500 - 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country and the FCT, while the estates will have 250 units per site in the remaining thirty (30) states. 

9.    With this housing programme, we plan to unlock the massive potential of housing development to create jobs, uplift lives and boost economic development. Statistics show that construction of one housing unit creates an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs. So, for these 250 housing units we are hoping to create jobs for over 6,500 people. This is besides the economic activities including persons selling food, supplying blocks, building materials and the likes. The value chain effect is big and creates positive economic impact. 

10.    Nationwide, we currently have estates in 12 States and Cities in 3 States. The estates are sited in Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Abia, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Sokoto, Oyo, and Osun. The cities are in Abuja, Kano and Lagos. 

11.    This exercise started on Wednesday with the groundbreaking for a 250-housing unit Renewed Hope Estate in Katsina, followed by the groundbreaking for a 500-housing unit Renewed Hope City in Kano yesterday. After here, we will be proceeding to Gombe for the groundbreaking of a 250-housing unit Renewed Hope Estate. In total, we are breaking ground for 1,250 housing units across four states in Northern Nigeria. 

12.    Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, we are particular about giving Nigerians value for money. The funding for these projects come from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. We have already awarded contracts for 3,500 housing units in those 13 States. States that have not been covered under the 2023 Supplementary Budget will be included in the 2024 Budget, and I urge all State Governments who are yet to provide land for these projects to do so promptly.

13.    At this juncture, I also want to appreciate and thank His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Yobe State, His Excellency Mai Mala Buni CON for promptly granting our request for the provision of land at no cost. This singular action has helped us to reduce as much as 30% of the cost of the units in this Estate for the benefit of potential homeowners. This is a dividend of responsible governance and I applaud Your Excellency for this. 

14.    Before I close my remarks, I want to thank and appreciate our President for providing the vision and the political will necessary for us to make a difference in terms of delivering decent and quality housing to Nigerians. The Groundbreaking ceremony today in Yobe state and tomorrow in Gombe state is a testament that Mr. President and indeed the Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to fulfilling promises and responsibilities to all Nigerians.

Long live Yobe and His Excellency, the Executive Governor.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live Mr. President.

May

23

2024

DANGIWA INAUGURATES 500-UNIT RENEWED HOPE CITY IN KANO

…Governor Yusuf pledges continuous partnership towards the development of housing sector in the State

The Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has, in continuation of the Nationwide Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme flag off, supervised the official groundbreaking of the 500-unit Renewed Hope City in Kano State by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

In his remarks, Arc. Dangiwa explained that the Renewed Hope City in Kano will feature 100 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 300 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 100 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, all designed with affordability and future expansion in mind, allowing homeowners to enlarge their living spaces as their incomes improve.

He emphasized the importance of adhering to quality standards and timely completion, urging the developers, Messrs. Cosgrove Investment Limited, Vibe Bottega Ltd, and Frasier Stone Ltd to build according to specifications and deliver quality work within three to six months as substandard job would not be tolerated.

The Minister highlighted various purchase options created to make home ownership accessible, which includes single-digit mortgage loans with up to 30-year terms, Rent-to-Own schemes, and outright purchase options.

While stating that the project is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader vision under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project, which began with a 3,112-unit project in Karsana, Abuja, Arc. Dangiwa reiterated that the Phase One aims to deliver 50,000 housing units across Nigeria.

“The cities will have between 500 - 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country and the FCT, while the estates will have 250 units per site in the remaining thirty (30) states”, he explained.

Accordingly, the Minister informed that the estates are sited in Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Sokoto, Osun and Ogun States, while the cities are in Abuja, Kano, and Lagos.

 “Yesterday we did the groundbreaking for the Estate in Kano. After here, we will be proceeding today to Yobe, tomorrow to Gombe and on Sunday we are proceeding to Sokoto, for the groundbreaking ceremonies. In total, we are doing ground breaking of 3,500 housing units across the 12 States I have mentioned”, he said.

Reiterating President Tinubu's commitment to ensuring Nigerians own decent, liveable and affordable home,  Arc. Dangiwa  explained that funding for the projects comes from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. 

“We have already awarded contracts for 3,500 housing units in those 13 states we have mentioned, plus the 3,112 in Karsana that are under the Public Private Partnership (PPP)”, he added.

The Minister appreciated Governor Yusuf for providing land at no cost for the project, noting that it has significantly reduced the overall cost of the housing units; urging all State Governments yet to provide land for these projects to do so promptly.

He further thanked the Governor for returning Kano State workers back to the National Housing Fund (NHF) contribution of 2.5% of their income, pointing out it  would enable the workers to acquire the Units through the NHF mortgage loans, rent-to-own, as well as enable them to have access to other loan products and options offered by the FMBN.

He also commended  the management of  Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria for offering a home renovation loan to on beneficiaries.

Arc. Dangiwa as well extended his appreciation to President Tinubu for his vision and political will which have been crucial in advancing the cause of quality and affordable housing in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, who is also from Kano State, expressed elation for having the project sited in his home state, assuring it would  create jobs, boost economic development and help in  achieving President Tinubu's goal to build a $1 trillion economy.

The Executive Governor of Kano State, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, in his remark, lauded the timely nature of the project considering that the State is largely populated and is facing shortage of houses.

He  disclosed that his administration has made significant progress in revitalizing abandoned housing projects in the State, Gov. Yusuf mentioned that his government is also facilitating partnership with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria to construct houses for interested citizens.

He further appreciated the Management of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, for considering Kano State Civil Servants in the disbursement of over 230 Million naira Cheques to 299 beneficiaries, while also calling on the beneficiaries to utilize the loan for the purpose of building their own houses.

The Governor further assured the Minister of continuous partnership towards the development of housing sector in the State.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of 230 Million naira home renovation loan Cheques to 299 Civil Servant beneficiaries by the Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank Shehu Usman Osidi, through the Honorable Minister Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa.

May

23

2024

REMARKS BY THE HON. MINISTER OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT ARC. AHMED MUSA DANGIWA, AT THE LAUNCH OF THE 500-HOUSING UNIT RENEWED HOPE CITY IN KANO ON THURSDAY, MAY 23^RD 2024

Protocols

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. First, I would like to thank His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for honoring our invitation to be a part of today’s event.
2. Although I am from Katsina, Kano is also dear to me as a place of friendship and a place of beautiful memories. So today, I am very excited to be here as the Hon. Minister of Housing and Urban Development to perform the groundbreaking for a 500-housing unit Renewed Hope City.
3. The Renewed Hope City in Kano comprises 100 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, 300 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, and 100 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
4. We have designed these housing units in a way that makes it easy and affordable for people to offtake. We have used organic designs to allow for future expansion as the income of beneficiaries increases. What this means is that the 1-bedroom can be expanded to 2 bedrooms and a 2-bedroom expandable to 3 bedrooms as the owner’s financial situation improves or he grows in service.
5. As we break the ground on this project, I want to charge the developers, Messrs. Cosgrove Investment Limited, Vibe Bottega Ltd, and Frasier Stone Ltd to ensure that they build according to specifications. I expect you to deliver a quality job because we will not tolerate substandard. We also want you to have this work finished within the next three months so that we can begin the process of getting Kano indigenes to purchase and move in.
6. We have created different options to enable everyone who has a source of income and livelihood to own these homes when they are completed. These include single-digit mortgage loans with up to 30-year terms provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Rent-to-Own schemes, and Outright Purchase options for those who can afford to pay upfront.
7. I want to state that today's groundbreaking event is part of a larger vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, when he launched the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project with a 3,112-housing unit project in Karsana, Abuja, earlier this year.
8. Under Phase One, we plan to deliver a total of 50,000 housing units across Nigeria. The cities will have between 500 - 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country and the FCT, while the estates will have 250 units per site in the remaining thirty (30) states.
9. With this housing programme, we plan to unlock the massive potential of housing development to create jobs, uplift lives and boost economic development. Statistics show that construction one housing unit creates an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs. So, for this 500 housing units we are hoping to create jobs for over 12,500 people. This is besides the economic activities including persons selling food, supplying blocks, building materials and the likes. The value chain effect is big and creates positive economic impact.
10. Nationwide, we currently have estates in 12 States and Cities in 3 States. The estates are sited in Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Abia, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Sokoto, Oyo, and Osun. The cities are in Abuja, Kano, and Lagos.
11. Yesterday we did the groundbreaking for the Estate in Kano. After here, we will be proceeding to Yobe and to Gombe for the groundbreaking ceremonies. In total, we are breaking ground for 1,250 housing units across four states in Northern Nigeria.
12. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, we are particular about giving Nigerians value for money. The funding for these projects comes from the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. We have already awarded contracts for 3,500 housing units in those 13 States. States that have not been covered under the 2023 Supplementary Budget will be included in the 2024 Budget, and I urge all State Governments who are yet to provide land for these projects to do so promptly.
13. At this juncture, I also want to appreciate and thank His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, for promptly granting our request for the provision of land at no cost. This singular act has helped us reduce up to 30% of the cost of the units in this city for the benefit of potential homeowners. This is a dividend of responsible governance and I applaud Your Excellency for this.
14. Before I close my remarks, I want to thank and appreciate our President for providing the vision and the political will necessary for us to make a difference in terms of delivering decent and quality housing to Nigerians.

Long live Kano and His Excellency, the Executive Governor.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Long live Mr. President.

May

22

2024

Welcome Remarks by The Honourable Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Housiing and Urban Development, Engr. Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, At The Official Groundbreaking Ceremony of The Renewed Hope Cities and Estates In Katsina, Katsina State

Protocols

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Distinguished Guests,

1.    It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all, on behalf of the Honourable Minister, to the groundbreaking ceremony of the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates in katsina, Katsina State. Today marks another milestone in our quest to further transform the landscape of our dear nation into a habitable community, which will provide homes, opportunities, and a brighter future for Nigerians.

 
2.    As we are all aware, the hallmark of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is the Renewed Hope Agenda, which beams the light of hope and assurance on the citizenry through people-oriented programmes, designed to transform the economy of our great nation. You may recall that Mr. President himself kick-started the implementation of the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Housing Programme early this year with the development of 3,112 housing units in Karsana, Abuja.

3.    We are here standing on the threshold of progress, ready to turn the vision to reality. This project is more than constructing buildings; it represents government’s commitment to creating a better, more sustainable environment where people can live, work and thrive in an integrated community.

4.    The Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme is targeted at providing high-quality, affordable housing that meets the diverse needs of our community. We are incorporating latest sustainable building practices and green technologies to ensure that our homes are not only beautiful and comfortable but also environmentally friendly.

5.    Beyond laying bricks, this project will offer a wide range of amenities that enhance the quality of life for the beneficiaries. It will provide the development of access roads, electricity, water supply and other essential infrastructure that improve standard of living. The project will also encourage economic growth and opportunities, create job opportunities during the construction phase and continue to generate economic benefits for years to come, all contributing to the prosperity of our Country. 

6.    I want to express my gratitude to the Honourable Minister, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, and the Honorable Minister of state, Engr. Abdullahi T. Gwarzo, for their visionary leadership in conceptualizing this laudable project. I also thank our partners and all the wonderful players that make this project possible.

7.    As we break ground today, we are also breaking new ground in terms of innovation, sustainable, and economic development. This project serves as a model for future developments, demonstration that we can build responsibly and inclusively, ensuring that everyone has access to affordable housing, a place they can call home.

8.    Once again, I welcome you all to this all important occasion. Thanks you and God bless.

May

22

2024

Housing Minister Launches Renewed Hope Housing Delivery Portal 

The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has launched the Renewed Hope Housing Online Portal, a platform to streamline the process for the marketing and sale of houses being built under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estate Programme.

Unveiling the portal, Dangiwa said, the Online Platform is a fulfilment of promise to break all the barriers to homeownership for Nigerians, and also to facilitate and promote the creation of technology systems and private sector-led initiatives that will make it simpler, easier, and more convenient for Nigerians to own their homes.

The Minister said, the innovative platform is groundbreaking,. It provides an online, transparent, easy-to-use, integrated web-based application for the sale of homes under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme of the Ministry, which was launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu earlier this year. 

He further said that the platform has many benefits for homebuyers. It has a user-friendly interface to ensure that the journey to homeownership is smooth and straightforward. It ensures a seamless and secure registration process with identity verification, enabling potential homeowners to efficiently search for properties using various filters, ensuring they find homes that meet their specific needs.

Similarly, he explained that the platform also integrates features that offer flexible payment options, including both one-time payments and installment plans, catering to different financial situations. It also provides easy access to mortgage plans, allowing homebuyers to check their eligibility and apply from anywhere in the world.

" The platform supports equity contributions for mortgages, streamlining financial planning for buyers. Integrated features like credit checks and bank statement generation simplify the application process. Buyers can also apply for the release of up to 25% of their RSA balance for additional financial support" he stated 

He also described the online platform as a key part of the partnership of the MoU signed in December 2023 with a consortium of developers led by Continental Civil to deliver 100,000 housing units nationwide.

Acknowledging the consortium of developers for their ingenuity, Dangiwa said that, Nations grow when the private sector is properly engaged. He encouraged those who have real value to add to their efforts to deliver the Renewed Hope Vision for Housing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

" The housing platform will also provide the necessary data that we need to achieve the ministry's goal of implementing a Demand-Driven Strategy for Housing by helping us to gauge the nature of housing needs for different locations and demographics nationwide"  he added.

He also explained  that the online platform was not the first built by the Ministry, adding  that the ministry is supporting the mainstreaming of a better, carefully designed, more efficient, futuristic housing platform that reflects the necessary improvements from previous efforts towards ensuring achieving the President's Renewed Hope Agenda for easy access to homeownership for Nigerians, without financial cost to the ministry.

He explained also that the ministry facilitates the building of homes that people can afford in locations where they are needed so that they don’t end up with houses that are fully built but abandoned.

Currently , there are 12 locations for Renewed Hope Estates and three (3) locations for Renewed Hope Cities across the country.

The Estates are sited in Yobe, Gombe, Ebonyi, Abia, Nasarawa, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Katsina, Sokoto, Oyo and Osun, while  the Cities are in Abuja, Kano and Lagos.

Dangiwa called on all Nigerians to take advantage of the platform to apply for the houses under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme. " With the platform, you do not need to know anybody, he emphasized 

May

19

2024

Dangiwa Begins Nationwide Groundbreaking for 'Renewed Hope' Cities, Estates

*  To Start with 1,250 Units in Four States
*  Urges States yet to provide land to do so to enable project plans 

The Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, is set to commence the nationwide official groundbreaking for the phase 1 of the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project, beginning with 1,250 housing units in four states in Northern Nigeria.

This exercise follows the program's official launch by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, with a 3,112-housing unit project in Karsana, Abuja, in February 2024. The successful completion of the contracting process and mobilization of reputable developers to start work has set the stage for this significant development.

The Hon. Minister will officially flag off construction activities at the project sites as follows:
-    250 housing units at Renewed Hope Estate in Katsina on Wednesday, May 22, 2024
-    500 housing units at Renewed Hope City in Kano on Thursday, May 23, 2024
-    250 housing units at Renewed Hope Estate in Yobe on Friday, May 24, 2024
-    250 housing units at Renewed Hope Estate in Gombe on Saturday, May 25, 2024

“We are committed to our promise to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to turn the country into a huge construction site and unlock the potential of the housing sector to create jobs, catalyze economic growth, and contribute to the $1 trillion economy while boosting national development. The 1,250 units that we are breaking ground for in Katsina, Kano, Yobe, and Gombe is only a start. After this, we shall be proceeding to other parts of the country.,” Arc. Dangiwa said.

The Minister noted that under the 2023 Supplementary budget the Ministry has awarded contracts for 3,500 housing units in thirteen States since December 2023. This includes 500 housing units in Kano, 250 housing units in twelve other states including Katsina, Sokoto, Yobe, Gombe, Nasarawa, Benue, Osun, Oyo, Abia, Ebonyi, Delta and Akwa Ibom. 

The Renewed Hope City in Kano comprises:
-    100 units of 1-bedroom (semi-detached bungalows)
-    300 units of 2-bedrooms (semi-detached bungalows)
-    100 units of 3-bedrooms (semi-detached bungalows)
The Renewed Hope Estates in Katsina, Yobe, and Gombe each comprise:
-    50 units of 1-bedroom (semi-detached bungalows)
-    100 units of 2-bedrooms (semi-detached bungalows)
-    50 units of 3-bedrooms (semi-detached bungalows)

“To enhance affordability and ease of offtake, we used organic designs where one bedroom can be expanded to two-bedrooms and three-bedrooms as the income of beneficiaries increase over time,” Arc. Dangiwa said.

At an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs per housing unit, the 1,250 housing units are estimated to create 31,250 skilled and unskilled jobs in these states. Construction work at the sites will also stimulate local economic activity, benefiting the communities and the broader economy.

The housing projects also seek to address social inequality by providing a broad range of affordable ownership options. This includes single digit and up to 30-year mortgage loans to be provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Rent-to-Own options where beneficiaries can move in and pay towards homeownership in monthly, quarterly, or annual instalments and Outright Purchase for high income earners.

The 1,250 housing units are being funded under the N50billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. 

The Hon. Minister has assured all State Governments that the Renewed Hope Housing Programme is designed to cover all the States in the Country saying that States that are not covered under the 2023 Supplementary Budget will be covered under the 2024 Budget. He therefore called on all State Governments who are yet to provide land for siting the projects to do so to enable the Ministry finalize project plans. 

May

16

2024

MINISTER GWARZO ADVOCATES INCLUSIVITY TO PROMOTE WOMEN DEVELOPMENT 

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo has urged stakeholders in construction industry to invest in initiatives that can encourage gender equality and creates an environment where women can excel.

The Minister was speaking as a Special Guest at a conference hosted by Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors on "ARe - SuRe - Gender Diversification of Construction Industry Workforce: Attracting, Recruiting, Supporting, and  Retaining  Women Graduates" a research project aimed at understanding the obstacles hindering women from taking up employment in the construction workforce in Nigeria.

According to him women bring unique skills, perspectives, and problem solving that can enhance construction projects, promote sustainable practice, and foster a collaborative working environment. 

To this end the Minister said the Conference was a significant platform to address the longstanding underrepresented of women in the construction sector, adding that embracing diversity means upholding fairness and equality while it will unlock a wealth of untapped potential to drive the industry forward.

He therefore called on the participants explore strategies and initiatives that will foster a more inclusive and equitable workforce that will harness the immense potential that women can bring into the sector.

Minister Gwarzo then commended the resilience and commitment of the organisers of the conference for aligning with President Bola Ahmad Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda on inclusivity saying it will reshape the industry, foster culture of inclusivity, respect, and opportunity.

On his part the chairman of the Conference Professor Muhammad  A. Mainoma, mni Vice Chancellor Prime University, Abuja  has said that community engagement and outreach are essential aspects of promoting gender diversification in the construction industry workforce.

Professor Mainoma further stated that leadership commitment is vital to set the tone for the entire industry and create an environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

May

11

2024

Housing Ministry Holds Top Management Retreat on Implementation of Performance Management System

The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban has organised a two day retreat for the Top Management on the implementation of Performance Management System (PMS) in the Ministry.

The retreat was for directors and heads of units in the Ministry and its agencies; Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria,  Federal Housing Authority and office of the Surveyor General of the Federation.

Permanent Secretary, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, in his introductory remarks restated the commitment of the Ministry to sustaining and strengthening its structures, in line with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025 (FCSSIP 25).

"This retreat will provide opportunity to identify Presidential priorities, operational and Service Wide for all Departments as well as Key Performance Indicators (KPI), Key Result Areas (KRAs), targets that will be cascaded down to the various Departments " he said.

He noted that based on the ongoing reforms in the FCSSIP25, there was a need for re-engineering of the Ministry's processes with a view to ensure performance and delivery of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Dr Ogunbiyi also explained that the retreat was to review and agree on set targets and deliverables and also validate the documents that were developed by a Team of Officers from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and for signing of the Performance Contract between the Permanent Secretary and  Directors and Heads of Units.

Accordingly,  he stated that the Ministry with his support has achieved the implementation of the Ministerial Performance Management System (MPMS) and Ministerial deliverables.

In his welcome remarks, the Director Planning Research and Statistics,  Muhammed Bala Saulawa described the retreat as a new journey for the staff of the Ministry to enhance their performance and productivity with the contract signing with the Permanent Secretary on their performance

" Today, we take a crucial step towards strengthening our commitment to excellence and effectiveness in delivering our mandates. Our PMS is designed to streamline our processes, improve our outputs and ultimately, enhance the quality of our services for the nation" he said.

Saulawa expressed appreciation to partners and stakeholders who have supported the Ministry in this endeavor.

May

08

2024

Dangiwa Holds Strategic Meeting with Kenyan Housing Minister

•    Explores Partnership for Affordable Housing Delivery

Nairobi, Kenya, May 7, 2024 – The Honorable Minister of Housing and Urban Development of Nigeria, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, yesterday met with his counterpart, Honorable Alice Wahome, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, and Housing of Kenya, on the sidelines of the first session of the 2024 UN Habitat Executive Board Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya as part of efforts to collaborate towards affordable housing delivery.

Addressing recent challenges faced by Kenya, Arc. Dangiwa conveyed the condolences of the government and people of Nigeria to the government and people of Kenya over the recent flooding experienced in the country. He affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to cooperating with Kenya in addressing environmental and climatic shocks affecting human settlements.

The Minister acknowledged Kenya’s contributions in matters of Human Settlements regarding Africa and commended the country for its continued efforts in championing topics of relevance for Africa. He expressed appreciation for Kenya’s support of Nigeria’s candidacy for the Chairmanship of the UN-Habitat Executive Board, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to effective, collaborative, and purposeful leadership.

“Madam Cabinet Secretary, Nigeria appreciates Kenya’s continued leadership in matters of Human Settlements on behalf of the continent, not only as host of the UN-Habitat Secretariat but also in championing topics of relevance for the continent. May I also express sincere appreciation for Kenya’s disposition to the Africa Group’s endorsement of Nigeria’s candidacy for the Chairmanship of the UN-Habitat Executive Board,” he said.

Arc. Dangiwa highlighted the longstanding collaboration between Kenya and Nigeria in advancing the objectives of UN-Habitat, particularly in the drafting and negotiating of key resolutions benefiting the continent. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing Africa's housing challenges, citing the significant roles played by both countries in the transformation of Shelter Afrique into the Shelter Afrique Development Bank.

In response, Cabinet Secretary Wahome pledged Kenya’s support for Nigeria’s chairmanship of UN-Habitat and expressed Kenya’s commitment to enhanced collaboration with Nigeria in tackling the continent’s housing challenges. She reiterated Kenya's readiness to work closely with Nigeria to strengthen UN-Habitat and Shelter Afrique Development Bank to maximize their impact.

The meeting concluded with both parties affirming their commitment to working together to ensure the balanced implementation of resolutions, particularly those addressing affordable housing, and to further strengthen the collaboration between Kenya and Nigeria for the benefit of Africa.

May

07

2024

Dangiwa Meets Group of African Members of the UN Habitat Executive Board 

·    Says Nigeria’s Chairmanship will Ensure Strategic Direction for UN Habitat, etc

Nairobi, Kenya - On May 7th, 2024, the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development and Chair of the UN-Habitat Executive Board, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, engaged in a critical meeting with the Africa Group, representing 10 countries, on the sidelines of the first session of the 2024 UN-Habitat Executive Board Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya.

At the meeting, Arc. Dangiwa outlined the key priorities for Nigeria's leadership of the Executive Board, as identified during the recent Retreat of the Regional Group of African States in Naivasha, Kenya. These priorities include:

1.    Promoting increased strategic direction for UN-Habitat by promoting the balance between the organisation’s Mandate, the available global opportunities as well as within the United Nations Wide System and the quest for increased Resources.

2.    Regular and ongoing caucusing for the benefit of the continent. Under this, he said Nigeria will call for a Ministerial Caucus, and subsidiary technical fora of the Africa Group on Human Settlements in line with the African Union Specialised Technical Committee On Public Service, Local Government, Urban Development And Decentralisation (AU-STC 8).

3.    Enhanced global collaboration and engagement. He noted that Nigeria will also be working towards increased global collaboration through engagement both in consultation with Nairobi based delegations and Capitals. This will include engagements with stakeholders from other regions. Nigeria will also be calling for a platform for Ministerial Collaboration of Members of the Executive Board and would be glad to drive the agenda through the Africa Group.

4.    Strengthened due diligence to maximize benefits and protect the organization's mandate. He noted that Nigeria commits to enhancing due diligence to UN-Habitat activities to ensure that the continent achieves increased benefits for its engagement within UN-Habitat in particular and the UN system in general, as well as to protect the organization from possible erosion of its mandate.

Furthermore, the Honourable Minister highlighted additional continental priorities, including the celebration of UN-Habitat's 50th anniversary, the development of a new strategic plan, and the promotion of African-grown initiatives.

Arc. Dangiwa expressed gratitude to Her Excellency Dr. Vivian Nain Kuma of Cameroon, Chair of the Africa Group, for convening the meeting, and expressed appreciation to all attending delegations for their commitment to the cause. He emphasized the importance of sustained and purposeful engagement in matters of human settlements, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the Africa Group in advocating for the continent's interests.

Dr. Vivian Nain Kuma, in her response, congratulated Nigeria and the Hon. Minister for assuming the position of Chair of UN-Habitat as Africa’s representative. She pledged, on behalf of members of the Group, that they will work to support his agenda and ensure the success of his tenure as Chair. She encouraged the Hon. Minister to champion strategic collaboration with the Shelter Afrique Development as part of efforts to raise concessional finance to solve the continent’s housing and urban development challenges.

The meeting featured a presentation by the Managing Director of Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB), Mr. Thierno-Habib Hann, who spoke on the need for strategic collaboration between the institution and UN-Habitat, especially since they share similar objectives and a unique Board leadership under Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa. Such a partnership, he said, will help unlock concessional funding necessary to meet the continent’s housing and urban development needs.

May

03

2024

Dangiwa Receives Progress Reports from Housing Sector Reform Task Teams

….. 80% of task completed so far

… Ministry to host validation workshop on reports

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has commended the heads and members of the Housing Sector Reform Task Teams instituted by the Ministry for making substantial progress towards delivering on their Terms of Reference. 

The commendation was given when the leadership of the four Reform Task Teams constituted by the Ministry in January 2024 made a presentation to the Minister at the Ministry's headquarters in Abuja.

The Minister commended the efforts of the teams, noting that they have so far achieved more than 80% of the tasks given to them. 

" I am so pleased by the way you have all taken this national assignment so far. I can see the extent of work you have done, and this is a testament to the confidence we reposed in you when we chose you all to drive some of the strategic reforms we were pursuing in the sector" he stated 

Dangiwa also expressed delight that the task teams surpassed 80% of the deliverables and expect to receive the final reports in the next few weeks.

He explained that the report will form the guidelines to follow in strengthening the institutional capacity of federal housing agencies, promoting synergy between the agencies and optimising their capacity to deliver on the housing mandate, streamlining land administration in Nigeria, and establishing Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria 

Accordingly,  the Minister disclosed that a workshop will be held in the coming weeks to have an interface between all four Task Teams and validate their draft reports for fine tuning and necessary modifications before the final reports will be submitted.

The task teams, comprising the Housing Institutions ReformTask Teams, Multi-Agency Project Delivery Task Team, Land Reform Task Team, and the Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs Task Team, were constituted to map out the modalities, strategies, and frameworks with which the Ministry can break the barriers to efficient housing delivery and embark on sector-wide reforms to bring about sustainable housing delivery and Urban Development in Nigeria.

Notably, the Land Reform Task Team, headed by Rev. Ugochukwu Chime, is also expected to review and identify areas of the Land Use Act requiring amendment, as well as map out modalities for the establishment of the National Land Commission.

On the other hand, the Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs Task Team, headed by Engr. Nuhu Wya, was charged with designing a framework for how, where, and in what form the hubs will be established, including the design, size, and financial implications.

The Housing Institutions ReformTask Team is tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that housing agencies under the supervision of the ministry are optimized to deliver on the provision of quality, decent and affordable homes to Nigerians. This includes a thorough review and facilitation of necessary legislative amendments of relevant housing industry laws, including National Housing Fund (NHF) Act,1992, Federal Mortgage Bank Of Nigeria Establishment Act, 1993, Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Act,1973, and PenCom Act to allow for increased investment in housing

As head of the team, Adedeji Adesemoye said, the issues of Recapitalisation of the FMBN, ensuring that institutions have up-to-date financial reports, and prevailing on Institutions to engage in demand-based analysis are some of the areas where the team has made meaningful progress.

On it's part, the Brig. Gen. Tunde Reis (rtd)-led Multi-Agency Project Delivery Task Team is expected to find ways of fostering synergy and collaboration between all federal housing agencies for improved housing delivery in the country.