REMARKS BY THE HON. MINISTER OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ARC. AHMED MUSA DANGIWA AT THE GROUNDBREAKING OF A 480 HOUSING UNIT PROJECT BY CITYGATE HOMES IN ABUJA ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023
Protocols
1. Good morning, ladies, and gentlemen,
2. It is with pleasure that I stand before you today on this occasion of the groundbreaking ceremony of the remarkable 480-housing unit project by Citygate Homes here in the heart of Abuja. This groundbreaking event marks a significant contribution to our ongoing efforts to address the pressing need for adequate housing in our country.
3. Housing is not merely a fundamental human need; it is the cornerstone upon which stable communities and vibrant societies are built. The provision of decent housing stands as a testament to a government's commitment to the welfare and well-being of its citizens. Today's groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to that commitment.
4. The initiative taken by Citygate Homes aligns perfectly with the government's vision for sustainable urban development. This project embodies the collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors, showcasing how partnerships can drive impactful change and contribute to the growth and development of our nation.
5. In a rapidly growing city like Abuja, the demand for housing has surged, and it is our collective responsibility to respond to this need. I commend Citygate Homes for their dedication and investment in this endeavor. This housing project will not only provide shelter but will also create job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and contribute significantly to the enhancement of the local community.
6. Furthermore, I want to emphasize the importance of sustainability and inclusivity in urban development. As we move forward, it is imperative that our housing projects incorporate eco-friendly designs, embrace technological advancements, and cater to the diverse needs of our society, including the low- and medium-income earners.
7. In this regard, I will request that the Management of City Gate Homes earmark a certain percentage of the 480-homes as affordable housing with price tags that average Nigerians can afford to buy.
8. As the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, I am an advocate of affordable housing with the focus on the average Nigerian worker, who are indeed, the majority.
9. However, I recognize that all Nigerians across all income segments desire access to decent housing and must applaud City Gate for tapping into this market segment. The approach that we are promoting at the Ministry is building integrated communities with housing types that reflect the diverse income segments of our society using cross subsidies. This way we aim to sell high-end homes at market rates and deploy the profits towards subsidizing the units for low and medium income households. This enhances inclusivity.
10. I therefore urge all stakeholders involved in this project to ensure adherence to the highest standards of quality, timely execution, and transparency throughout its development phases. Let us work together to make these 480 housing units a reality, ensuring they become homes that foster happiness, security, and a sense of belonging for the families who will reside here.
11. In closing, I want to commend the Management of Citygate Homes for their dedication to the task of housing Nigerians and to everyone present today for their support. Together, let us continue to strive towards building a future where every citizen has access to affordable and dignified housing.
12. Thank you.
