FG To Build 34,000 Houses Nationwide

The federal government is to build 34,000 homes in selected cities and state capitals across the 36 states and the FCT under the first phase of the Renewed Hope Cities Project.

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, made this disclosure yesterday at a meeting with the comptroller general of immigration at the ministry's headquarters in Abuja.

He said increasing access to decent, quality and affordable housing for all Nigerians is a major priority of the government. He said in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government had already mapped out clear steps to make this possible for Nigerians.

According to him, the major focus area is the reform of all federal housing agencies such as the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria and Federal Housing Authority.

While explaining that the cities will stand as symbols of inclusivity, ensuring that every Nigerian family, regardless of their income level, has a place to call a home, the minister stated that FMBN would focus on affordable houses using single digit interest rates and long tenors of up to 30 years to contributors to the National Housing Fund Scheme, while the FHA has flexibility to develop houses for high income segments.

"Our Renewed Hope Cities will be inclusive and integrate all segments of Nigerians. They will comprise 1, 2, and 3-bedroom affordable bungalows and multi-level flats catering for low to medium-income earners and ensuring they have access to affordable and comfortable living spaces.

"For high-income earners, we will leverage public-private partnerships with reputable developers to offer the elegance of terrace and detached bungalows and duplexes, providing them homes that match their status and aspirations.

Acting Comptroller General of Immigration, Caroline Adepoju, said shelter is the number one priority of any human being and reiterated that when shelter becomes a challenge, it tends to expose them to all sorts of illegal behaviours.