2019 URBAN OCTOBER: FG Calls for Collective Resolve for Sustainable Urban Development

Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has called for a collective reflection, stocktaking and strengthening partnerships, to accelerate action in the pursuit for sustainable urban development in Nigeria.

Fashola made the call in his keynote address at the commemoration of the 2019 World Habitat Day and World Cities Day yesterday in Abuja.

The 2019 Urban October has the themes:“Frontier technologies as an innovative tool to transform waste to wealth” and “Changing the World: Innovations and a Better Life for Future Generations “

The Minister of State for Works and Housing, Engr. Abubakar D.Aliyu, read the keynote address on behalf of Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola,SAN, the Minister of Works and Housing.

Fashola said we all have the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and build the type of cities we desire for our good health and well-being, and for that of our future generation.

Fashola disclosed that in partnership with  UN Habitat  the Federal Government had embarked on the review of the National Urban Development Policy as well as implementing urban renewal and slum upgrading programmes in several urban communities  across the country.

With a view to creating smart and sustainable cities across the nation, the minister maintained that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has not relented in its commitment to making sure that Nigerians have a better life by addressing the housing and infrastructure challenges and those posed by unplanned cities which led to increased slums and shanties.

He listed the various programmes already embarked upon by the Government through his ministry, which include: the on-going National Housing Programme, the launch of the National Maintenance Framework for Public Building as well as the review of the Urban Development Policy.

In his welcome address the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mohammed  Bukar, said the celebration of the World Cities Day around the world was to enable us view cities as drivers and incubators of innovations,  industries, technology, entrepreneurship  and creativity in ground breaking ways to achieve lasting impacts on the communities, and to ensure that "No one and no place is left behind as we build the future we want."

In her goodwill message, the Executive Director, UN HABITAT, Mrs. Maimunah Moh Sharif, called on stakeholders to identify ways to overcome challenges confronting urbanisation in a way that everyone’s life could be improved.

She noted that cities are the best place of innovation and creativity, assuring that UN Habitat would be ready to fully support the Federal Government in her bid to create  sustainable urbanization.

The Chairman Senate committee on Housing, Senator Sam Egwu represented by his Vice, Senator Oyelola Isa Ashiru pledged the Committee’s full support towards achieving a sustainable development of our cities.

The highlights of the event were:the Honourable Minister’s inspection of the exhibition stands and presentation of gifts to students of Witty Might Academy, Holy Child Educational Homes and Fine Trust Academy for song rendition, poem and drama presentation at the 2019 Urban October celebrations.

FG To Erring Contractors, Up Your Games Or Face Sanctions

The Zonal Director of the National Housing Programme in the North- West, Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Architect Joseph Toluhi, has urged erring contractors handling the on going construction of housing project in Kebbi State to step up their games or face necessary sanctions.

He noted that contractors, who fails to perform diligently on the job will have to give way for others to be engaged, adding that relevant clauses in the contract agreement can be invoke for appropriate sanctions.

This was contained in a statement by the Zonal Director on Wednesday in Biriin Kebbi during the North-West inspection tour to the project site.

Toluhi stated that the federal government is committed to provide decent and affordable housing to its teeming population and reduce the housing deficit in the country, adding that the NHP project is designed for the medium income earners who have the affordable means to acquire these houses across the nation.

The National Housing Programme, Kebbi State consist of 76 housing units of 1bedroom, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms semi-detached bungalows, are being handled by 19 indigenous contractors.

In a similar development, the zonal inspection team led by Toluhi also visited the National Housing Programme site in Sokoto State to have on-the-spot assessment of the on going construction works which has reached 95 per cent completion stage.

“I must say that I am pleased and happy with the level of progress of work on this site because we have a very high level of competition. Most of the building here have been completed”. He noted that out of 20 contractors engaged, 12 of them have already been completed while four are yet to be roofed.

According to him, “this means, we are ready to move into these buildings. The infrastructure such as water supply, road arterial and water supply have reached a very high level of completion”.

The Team Leader in Sokoto State, Mr lliya Kastuda also confirmed that construction work has reached 95 percent completion, adding that there is provision of worship centers, school, market to give necessary comfort and police post to ensure adequate security within the housing estate.

The zonal Director and other officials of the Ministry inspected a similar project in Gusau, Zamfara State, which is put at 65% completion stage. He however expressed disappointment in the poor quality of job done, stressing that government will not tolerate sub-standard jobs from any contractor.

REMARKS DELIVERED BY THE PERMANENT SECRETARY, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AT THE 13^TH MEETING OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON LANDS, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, HOLDING IN GOMBE, GOMBE STATE, ON 11^TH TO 15^TH NOVEMBER 2024.                                             

PROTOCOLS

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.1     It is with great pleasure and a profound sense of purpose that I welcome you all to this important 13th National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development holding here in Gombe, Gombe State with the theme "Housing the Future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilient and Urban Development”.   I am also truly honored to address this distinguished gathering of Permanent Secretaries and Professionals from the Housing and Urban Development Sector.

1.2     This Council meeting serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to advance the development of the Housing and Urban Development Sector in Nigeria and your presence here today demonstrates the commitment you have towards achieving this objective.

2.0.Greetings and Appreciations

2.1     Let me use this opportunity to once again appreciate the Executive Governor of Gombe State, His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for accepting to host this 13^th Meeting of the Council and for his support to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.  I would also like to commend the Officials of the State Government for ensuring the provision of everything necessary towards ensuring the success of this Council meeting.  I also express my gratitude to the good people of the State for the warm reception accorded to all the Participants following their arrival in the beautiful city of Gombe. 

2.2     I must also use this opportunity to express our gratitude to the Chairman, Senate Committee on Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Senator Sen. Aminu Tambuwal, Chairman; House Committee on Housing and Habitat, Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin and Chairman, House Committee on Urban Development and Regional Planning, Awaji-Inombek Abiante for their Legislative support for the development of the Housing and Urban Development Sector in Nigeria.

3.0 Reflecting on the Progress and Challenges in the Sector

3.1     We have gathered here not only to exchange best practices and review Policies but also to confront and tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing our Nigeria today—challenges of affordable housing shortages; rapid urbanization due to high population growth and increased rural urban migration; poor access to land for housing development and unsustainable urban planning, which continue to exert pressure on our urban infrastructure and housing stock.

3.2     The yearly National Council on Land, Housing and Urban Development has a reputation for fostering collaboration, generating innovative ideas and advancing meaningful solutions and I am confident that this year’s edition will not be different.  I am also confident that the collaborative energy here today with my fellow Permanent Secretaries will continue to fuel our shared progress and yield actionable steps to achieve sustainable urban growth across our Nation.

3.3     Over the past few years, the Ministry has worked relentlessly to advance strategic Policies and Initiatives to drive Urban Development and increase the accessibility and affordability of housing for all Nigerians. Through ongoing Projects and Partnerships, we have strengthened our commitment to Nigerians by delivering affordable housing, improving land use policies and setting the foundation for resilient urban communities.

3.4     As you are all aware, under the current Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the housing sector, the Ministry has made significant progress in housing construction in all the geo-political Zones of the Country under its Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Housing Programme and the Honorable Minister has displayed strong commitment to the success of the Programme. This unprecedented progress is also due to the cooperation and support of the various state governments. I am sure that that the support could not have been possible without the cooperation of my colleagues Permanent Secretaries. I say thank you and request for your continued support in pushing forward the lofty renewed hope agenda of our dear President, especially in the housing and urban development sector.

3.5     Furthermore, knowing the importance of housing data for decision making, the Honourable Minister inaugurated a Steering Committee under my Chairmanship, which was tasked with the responsibility of providing direction and oversight for the collection of National Housing Data from Public and Private Institutions and creating access to housing data in Nigeria for Policy, Planning and decision-making.  This Committee has already mandated its Technical Working Group (TWG) to come up with the Governance and Data Gathering Frameworks and modalities for setting up the National Housing Data Center (NHDC).  This Programme is among some of the key initiatives of the Ministry geared towards the achievement of our mandate.

3.6 You would all agree with me that the housing and Urban Development sector faces formidable challenges, which demand a united front from both Government and Private Sector Actors to create enduring solutions.  This is because the need for affordable, accessible and sustainable housing, as well as inclusive urban development has never been more urgent.

4.0 Strengthening Collaboration and Innovation

4.1 This year’s theme, "Housing the Future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilient and Urban Development” is not just a topic for discussion; it is a call to action.  To meet the demands of today and to plan for a sustainable future, we as Partners in Progress; must foster Public-Private Partnerships, promote innovative Technologies and harness the resources within our communities.  By bringing together Thought Leaders, Policy Experts, and Community Advocates, we are not only setting the direction for future growth but also building a legacy of resilience and inclusivity for generations to come.

4.2     Since this commencement of the National Council meeting, we have been deliberating on critical areas including, Improving access to land; land Titling and Registration; Building collapse; Social Housing; Green Building practices, Partnerships, Institutional strengthening and Policy.  I urge each of you to continue to participate actively, bringing forth your unique perspectives, experience and expertise as we work toward actionable solutions that will shape the future of our Cities and Communities.

4.3     It is noteworthy that one of the recurring issues that has come up since the commencement of this Council meeting on Monday has been the issue of the need for close monitoring of the implementation of the Resolutions reached at the Annual National Council meetings.  This will require regular monitoring of implementation status by all levels of Government and the plan of the Ministry going forward is to work closely with key Stakeholders on the Implementation status of their relevant Resolutions through periodic review sessions. Concerned with the non-implementation of Council resolutions over the years, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development sponsored a memo this year to seek the approval of Council for the mid term monitoring of the implementation of Council resolutions. I am happy to inform you that the Technical Session held yesterday accepted the prayers and this will be presented to the body of Permanent Secretaries today.

4.4     Our collective vision is clear: a Nigeria where every Citizen has access to safe, affordable housing within thriving, sustainable communities. This Council is instrumental in realizing that vision and each contribution made here will impact lives and strengthen our Nation’s socio-economic fabric.

4.5     In closing, let me extend my profound gratitude to all of you for your commitment and collaboration in the work that lies ahead. The outcome of this Council and Permanent Secretary’s meeting will play a pivotal role in shaping our Policies, guiding our Projects and laying the groundwork for sustainable development. 

4.6     On behalf of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, I thank you for your participation and wish all of us fruitful deliberations.  May our efforts this week set a course for lasting and positive change in Nigeria.

4.7     Thank you and may God bless our nation.

Introductory Remarks by the Director, Planning Research and Statistics, Mohammed Bala Saulawa at the 13^th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development hold in Gombe - Gombe state from Monday, 11^th to Friday, 15^th November, 2024

Protocol

1.      Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed professional and honoured guests, I am delighted and indeed privileged to welcome you to this historic meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development. Today, we convene under the timely theme “Housing the future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilient and Urban Development”. This year’s Council meeting promises to be pivotal, as we delve into eight (8) critical sub-themes, each accompanied by comprehensive memoranda for vigorous deliberation.  Over the next few days, we will engage in insightful discussions, share expert expertise and forge innovative solutions to propel our Nation’s housing sector forward.

2.      As you are aware, the National Council is the highest body that deals with the initiating of policy formulation, adoption and ensuring the implementation of the key decision of the Council Meeting. Also, we recognize the significance of this document in shaping the future of our housing sector and today, we have an opportunity to review and provide input on this critical document.

3.      It is imperative to note that the 13^th Meeting of the Council is structured into these dimensional Sessions:

• Technical Meeting of the Directors whilst to review the Memoranda and fine-tune the recommendations for onward presentation to Permanent Secretaries Sessions.
• The Permanent Secretaries Session is an avenue to discuss further on the recommendations made by the Technical Meeting of the Directors, and Ministerial Session.
• The Council which is to be presided over by the Honourable Minister with the attendance of Commissioners of 36 States in Housing Sector.

4.      These Sessions are expected to bring about housing policies that will alleviate the difficulties of providing the affordable houses in Nigeria, provide equilibrium in demand and supply of housing market and tackle rapid increase of building collapse in Nigeria. The housing sector policy in Nigeria is crucial for addressing the country's significant housing needs. Housing is considered the second most important human need, after food, and is essential for human survival. Despite this, Nigeria's housing sector contributes a mere 0.38% to the country's GDP.

Effective housing policies can have far-reaching benefits, including:

1. Economic Growth: A well-developed housing sector can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and increase GDP.
2. Social Stability: Access to affordable housing can improve living standards, reduce poverty, and promote social stability.
3. Infrastructure Development: Housing development can drive infrastructure growth, including roads, utilities, and community facilities.

5.      To achieve these benefits, Nigeria's housing policy should focus on the following key aspects:

1. Affordable housing by providing options for low-income earners.
2. Accessibility and inclusivity by ensuring housing is accessible to all, including the less privileged, the old, and those with disabilities.
3. Sustainable development by Promoting sustainable housing development practices and environmentally friendly materials.
4. Regulatory frameworks
5. Public-private partnerships

As professionals in the housing sector, your insights and expertise are vital. I encourage open and constructive dialogue to ensure this policy aligns with our shared vision.

Our objectives are clear:

1. 1. Improving access to affordable housing
   2. Enhancing quality of life for our citizens
   3. Fostering sustainable and inclusive communities
   4. Supporting economic growth and development

Also, as we deliberate, let us consider the following questions:

1. 5. How can we balance affordability with quality and sustainability?
   5. What innovative solutions can we adopt to address housing challenges?
   5. How can we ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all?

6.      By prioritizing these areas, Nigeria's housing sector policy will play a vital role in improving the lives of its citizens and driving national development. However, various dimensional experts, professionals and other stakeholders are expected to get their buy-in ideas for housing policy development. Your contributions will shape the future of our housing policy by engaging in productive discussions to produce meaningful outcomes.

7.      In view of the utmost importance of this National Housing Council, I enjoin all of you to display high level of professionalism, expertise and your technical reservoir knowledge on housing sector.

8.      I want to align my expectations on the confidence reposed on our esteem Directors, stakeholders, Secretariat as well as other participants who are here to enrich our meeting with valuable contributions towards a successful outcome of the Council.

9.      On this note, I wish to assure you that the Ministry in collaboration with the Gombe State Government has made adequate preparation for the smooth conduct of this great Council meeting.

10.    Before I conclude, I would like to extend my profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister for his kind support in all ramifications, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as well as Gombe state Government for hosting the event and providing enabling environment for the Meeting.

11.    Thank you all for your concerted effort.