The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttagha Rabe Darma, has commenced a nationwide inspection of more than 15,000 housing units currently under construction across Nigeria as part of efforts to accelerate project delivery and expand access to affordable housing.
Speaking during an inspection visit to the Kano Renewed Hope City Project, the minister said the exercise forms part of the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that housing projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu are completed on schedule and delivered to deserving Nigerians.
According to Darma, the nationwide assessment is designed to provide first-hand information on the status of projects, identify implementation challenges and facilitate timely intervention where necessary.
Darma Begins Verification of 15,000 Housing Units Nationwide
The minister recalled that during the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Housing Summit 2.0 held in Abuja, he announced plans to personally inspect housing projects across the country to verify the progress of over 15,000 housing units being developed under different Federal Government housing schemes.
He explained that the inspections would ensure that project reports align with realities on the ground and help eliminate delays in project delivery.
“The essence of these inspections is to ensure that projects are progressing as planned and that Nigerians begin to enjoy the benefits of these housing initiatives as quickly as possible. We are committed to removing bottlenecks and ensuring timely completion and delivery,” Darma said.
Kano Renewed Hope City to House Over 6,000 Residents
The minister disclosed that the Kano Renewed Hope City Project consists of 1,500 housing units of various categories and has the capacity to accommodate more than 6,000 residents based on an average household size of four persons.
He noted that the project will provide affordable and decent housing while promoting the development of a secure and sustainable community.
Darma expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work at the project site and urged contractors and other stakeholders to sustain their commitment to meeting delivery timelines.
Housing Projects Driving Economic Growth
The minister highlighted the economic benefits of the housing programme, stating that the projects are generating employment opportunities and supporting local businesses through the engagement of artisans, contractors, suppliers, transport operators and service providers.
“The economic impact of this project extends far beyond the housing units being constructed. It is creating jobs, supporting local businesses, attracting investments and contributing to the socio-economic development of the host communities,” he said.
He also commended the collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and private sector partners, describing the Public-Private Partnership model as a critical strategy for addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit.
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Affordable Housing
Darma reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to exploring innovative financing models and strategic partnerships aimed at increasing access to affordable housing, improving urban infrastructure and promoting inclusive development.
The minister had earlier announced plans to verify the availability of more than 15,000 housing units expected to be delivered within the next few months under various Federal Government housing initiatives.
According to him, the housing projects could accommodate thousands of Nigerian families once completed and allocated.
“Soon, we will begin to assess the availability of these 15,000 houses. I will move from place to place and make sure that these houses are there and not just on paper. We are going to be practical as much as we can,” he stated.
The Kano Renewed Hope City Project is among several flagship housing developments being implemented nationwide to reduce the housing deficit, stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life of Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
