Dangiwa to Chair UN-HABITAT Executive Board Meeting in Nairobi 

The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, will chair the second 2024 session of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT) Executive Board Meeting, scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 4 to 6, 2024.  

This session will address critical global urban development challenges, including housing, urban regeneration, climate resilience, and sustainable development, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.  

During the meeting, the Executive Board will, among other responsibilities, consider and potentially approve the draft work programme of UN-HABITAT and the draft budget for the United Nations Habitat and Human Settlements Foundation for 2025. The Board will also review reports on UN-HABITAT’s activities for 2020–2025, receive updates on the development of the Strategic Plan for 2026–2029, and assess the implementation of the organization’s normative and operational activities. This includes reporting on its 2024 programmatic initiatives, subprogrammes, flagship projects, technical cooperation efforts, and its engagement in countries, territories, and areas affected by conflicts and disasters.  

Nigeria’s leadership role as Chair of the UN-HABITAT Executive Board underscores the country’s commitment to advancing global sustainable urban development. It elevates Nigeria’s visibility and influence on the global stage, positioning the nation as a pivotal player in shaping the urban development discourse.  

Arc. Dangiwa’s chairmanship will amplify Nigeria’s voice in crafting policies and initiatives for sustainable global urbanization. It also reaffirms Nigeria’s dedication to addressing urban challenges, including housing deficits, slum development, and climate resilience.  

The meeting presents a significant opportunity for Nigeria to foster partnerships with international organizations, donors, and development agencies. It provides a platform to showcase Nigeria’s achievements and best practices in housing and urban development while cementing its position as a leader in Africa’s urban agenda.  

Moreover, the session aims to promote and adopt innovative, inclusive solutions for urban planning, housing, and sustainability across Africa and beyond.  

Under the leadership of Arc. Dangiwa, who also chairs the African Ministers of Housing Caucus, Nigeria is well-positioned to attract international funding and technical assistance for urban development projects, including real estate and infrastructure.  

The meeting is expected to enhance Nigeria’s capacity for knowledge exchange, strengthen regional alliances, and improve institutional frameworks by exposing participants to global best practices.  

Key focus areas for Nigeria include advocating for international support to address the nation’s housing deficit and promoting affordable housing solutions. Nigeria will also champion sustainable cities and climate adaptation on the global stage.  

A major anticipated outcome of the meeting is the strengthening of global partnerships to drive sustainable urban growth in Nigeria. This is expected to attract increased investments and resources to tackle urban challenges, fostering a more sustainable and inclusive future.