The Federal Government has pledged to include judicial officers and court personnel in its housing interventions across Nigeria.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Darma, made this known in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), retired Justice Babatunde Adejumo (OFR).

Darma said the ministry would carry the judiciary along as it implements housing projects across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

FG Targets Nigeria’s Housing Deficit

The minister said the government remains committed to reducing Nigeria’s housing deficit, which he estimated at about 15 million units.

He acknowledged the scale of the challenge. However, he said sustained commitment, proper planning, strong partnerships and joint efforts could help reduce the gap.

Darma also assured judicial officers and court workers that they would not be excluded from federal housing programmes.

The minister said the housing ministry takes a broad national approach to its projects. The programmes cover different locations and levels of government, including states and local government areas.

He added that the ministry would continue to seek partnerships with institutions that can support the Renewed Hope Housing Agenda.

Judiciary Seeks Housing Consideration

Adejumo commended the Federal Government for its efforts to tackle the country’s housing shortage.

He also called on the ministry to consider the housing needs of judicial officers and court personnel when allocating homes under its housing programmes.

According to him, members of the judiciary and court staff also face housing challenges. He therefore expressed the NJI’s willingness to work with the ministry through lawful and legitimate partnerships.

Adejumo stressed that such cooperation must respect the independence and constitutional duties of the judiciary.

NJI Offers Training Support

The proposed partnership could also cover training and human capacity development.

Adejumo said the NJI has conference facilities and other resources that the ministry could use for relevant training programmes.

The institute provides training, capacity building and continuing education for judicial officers and court personnel.

He said cooperation between the two institutions could create opportunities for knowledge sharing and professional development.

The partnership could also help both organisations develop training programmes linked to the implementation of housing policies and programmes.

Housing and Public Sector Welfare

The discussion highlights the wider role of housing in public-sector welfare.

Government housing programmes do not only involve the construction of homes. They also involve land, infrastructure, finance, allocation and access to suitable locations.

For the housing and construction sectors, wider government housing programmes can also support demand for new developments. They can create opportunities for developers, contractors, financiers and other professionals across the property value chain.

The inclusion of judicial officers and court personnel could therefore form part of a broader effort to address housing needs among public-sector workers.

The Federal Government’s engagement with the NJI also shows the importance of institutional partnerships in delivering housing programmes. As Nigeria works to reduce its housing deficit, effective planning and transparent implementation will remain important to expanding access to decent housing.

The post FG to Include Judicial Officers, Court Personnel in Housing Plans appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

REDAN Seeks New Housing Finance Models

The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) has called for stronger blended finance structures to increase investment in Nigeria’s housing and infrastructure sectors.

REDAN President, Oba Akintoye Adeoye, made the call at the 2026 Africa Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Conference and Exhibition in Lagos.

John Saka, Executive Secretary and Business Development Specialist at REDAN’s national secretariat, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

Adeoye said Nigeria’s housing and infrastructure needs require more than traditional sources of funding. He called for closer cooperation among government, developers, mortgage institutions, commercial banks and development finance institutions.

He also identified institutional investors and other sources of capital as important partners in expanding housing investment.

Blended Finance Could Support Housing Investment

Blended finance combines public, private and development-focused funds to reduce investment risks. It can also help attract private capital to projects that may face funding challenges under normal commercial terms.

Adeoye said this approach could help developers finance more housing projects while improving affordability for Nigerians.

He urged REDAN and the Mortgage Banking Association of Nigeria (MBAN) to promote financing models that support sustainable and affordable housing.

According to him, stronger links between developers and financial institutions could create better conditions for long-term investment in the sector.

The issue is important because housing projects often require significant upfront capital. Developers also need access to financing that matches the long development periods of housing and infrastructure projects.

Better financing structures could therefore support projects that might struggle to secure funding through conventional commercial loans alone.

REDAN Pushes Green Innovation

Adeoye also urged real estate developers to adopt more green technologies and sustainable construction practices.

He said developers could improve efficiency and long-term value through energy-efficient buildings, renewable energy and sustainable construction materials.

He also highlighted water efficiency, waste management, climate-resilient infrastructure and smart technologies as areas with room for greater innovation.

Adeoye said developers should view sustainable real estate as an investment rather than simply an additional cost.

Energy-efficient buildings can reduce operating expenses over time. Sustainable materials and better resource management can also improve building performance and the experience of occupants.

For Nigeria’s housing industry, the shift towards sustainable development could also support buildings that are better prepared for environmental and climate-related pressures.

Governance Remains Critical

The REDAN president also stressed the need for stronger governance across the real estate sector.

He identified transparency, accountability, ethical business practices and responsible leadership as key elements of a credible property market.

Adeoye said good governance can strengthen consumer confidence and improve investor trust. It can also support access to finance and improve the credibility of real estate businesses.

Strong governance remains important to both developers and consumers. Clear business practices can help protect buyers while creating greater confidence among financial institutions and investors.

ESG Conference Focuses on Practical Solutions

The 2026 Africa ESG Conference and Exhibition focused on the theme, “ESG as a Competitive Advantage: Blended Finance, Green Innovation, and Governance for Nigeria’s Real Estate Future.”

REDAN and the Mortgage Banking Association of Nigeria jointly organised the conference. The Nigeria Mega Project Expo 2026 partnered with both organisations for the event.

The conference provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss how environmental, social and governance principles can influence Nigeria’s real estate sector.

Adeoye urged participants to move beyond discussions and focus on practical solutions and partnerships.

For Nigeria’s housing market, the discussion highlights the close link between finance, sustainability and good governance. Expanding access to suitable funding, encouraging efficient building practices and improving industry standards can help create stronger conditions for housing and infrastructure investment.

The wider significance lies in bringing developers, lenders, government agencies and investors closer together. Such cooperation can help the sector develop financing models and business practices that support a more sustainable and accessible real estate market.

The post REDAN Urges Blended Finance to Unlock Nigeria’s Housing Potential appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Abia State Government has signed an agreement with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to support a new access road project in Umuahia.

The road will connect Okpara Square and Akanu Ibiam Street, known as Goodshed, with Bende Road. The project aims to improve road access and ease traffic in parts of the state capital.

The government and the NRC signed the Memorandum of Understanding on Wednesday, August 26, at the Governor’s Office.

Otti Targets Better Connectivity

Abia State Governor Alex Otti said the project forms part of efforts to improve Umuahia’s urban infrastructure.

According to Otti, the new road will improve movement across the city. It will also help address traffic problems around the area.

The governor added that the project will support plans to give Umuahia a facelift.

The proposed road also forms part of a wider transport plan for the state capital. The government plans to integrate the railway station and bus terminal into a transportation hub.

Government Sets Up Implementation Team

To speed up the project, Otti directed key officials to work together on its delivery.

He instructed the Commissioners for Transport and Works to coordinate with the General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority.

Other relevant government officials will also take part in the implementation process.

The governor wants the agencies to ensure that the project progresses without unnecessary delays.

Road to Support Transport Hub

The planned access road will create a link between important routes in Umuahia. As a result, it could provide another option for motorists travelling through the area.

The project also connects with the state government’s plan to bring road and rail transport closer together.

A combined transport hub could make transfers between different transport services easier. It could also improve access to the railway station and bus terminal.

For the city, better transport links can support movement between residential, commercial and public areas.

Infrastructure and Urban Development

Road projects can influence how cities grow and how people move between different parts of an urban area.

In Umuahia, the proposed link is expected to improve access around Okpara Square, Goodshed and Bende Road.

The agreement with the NRC also provides a framework for the state to work around the railway corridor while developing the road.

However, the immediate priority remains implementation. Government officials will now need to coordinate the road project and the planned transport hub.

The Abia Government says the initiative forms part of its broader effort to improve infrastructure and mobility in Umuahia.

If delivered as planned, the project could provide a new road connection while supporting the state’s longer-term plans for an integrated transport system.

The post Abia, NRC Sign MoU for Access Road Across Umuahia Railway Corridor appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The rising price of cement is putting more pressure on Nigeria’s housing market as construction costs increase and homeownership becomes harder for many Nigerians.

The price of a 50kg bag of Dangote Cement has reportedly climbed above N15,000 in some locations. The development comes while the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission investigates pricing in the cement industry.

Construction professionals have called for urgent action to improve supply, increase competition and ensure greater transparency in cement pricing.

Experts Raise Concern Over Housing Costs

Amusan Oluseyi, Principal Partner at Space Button Architecture Limited, said the recent price increases were difficult to explain given Nigeria’s large limestone deposits and cement production capacity.

He said Nigeria has an estimated cement production capacity of between 60 million and 65 million metric tonnes each year. Domestic consumption, however, stands at about 25 million to 30 million metric tonnes.

Amusan urged the FCCPC to take steps that would protect Nigerians who want to build their own homes.

He also warned that cement price volatility was affecting more than construction budgets. According to him, higher cement costs are raising the cost and value of housing while putting additional pressure on rents.

The architect also called for greater use of alternative building materials. He said the government could support research and commercial production of construction methods that rely less on cement.

He cited laterite-based materials, including Latcrete blocks developed by Nigerian architect and artist Demas Nwoko, as one possible alternative.

Supply Shortage Drives Recent Spike

Soji Adeniji, Chairman of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Engineering and Construction Group, offered a different view of the latest price increase.

Adeniji said the market was facing a temporary shortage rather than a new official price from cement manufacturers.

He linked the shortage to recent maintenance work at a Dangote Cement plant and access restrictions affecting some material depots.

According to him, these challenges reduced the quantity of cement available to distributors. The limited supply then allowed some players in the distribution chain to raise prices.

Adeniji expects prices to ease once more cement reaches the market.

He also said he had not received an official notice from Dangote Cement announcing a new price. He therefore argued that the current prices in some locations should not automatically be treated as an official manufacturer price increase.

Energy and Logistics Add to Costs

John Agbezin, Public Relations Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, identified several factors that affect cement prices.

These include energy costs, foreign exchange movements, transportation, insecurity and multiple taxes.

Agbezin said manufacturers rely on diesel and gas to operate their plants. Rising energy costs therefore increase production expenses.

Foreign exchange pressures also affect the sector. Some imported inputs, including diesel additives and coal, are priced in foreign currency and add to manufacturers’ costs.

Transportation creates another challenge. Poor roads and insecurity can force truck drivers to take longer routes to avoid unsafe areas.

Agbezin said longer journeys can add significant costs to the final price of a bag of cement.

Infrastructure Projects Increase Demand

Agbezin also pointed to strong demand from major infrastructure projects.

He said large projects can absorb substantial quantities of cement. Suppliers may therefore struggle to meet demand from smaller construction projects and individual developers when supplies become tight.

The situation could create additional pressure for Nigerians building homes, especially those working with limited budgets.

For developers, sudden changes in cement prices can also make project planning more difficult. Higher material costs may affect construction timelines, development budgets and the final price of properties.

Calls for More Competition

Agbezin urged the FCCPC to complete its investigation into the cement industry and publish its findings.

He also called for action against cartels if the investigation establishes evidence of anti-competitive practices.

Greater transparency across the supply chain is another priority. Agbezin said manufacturers and distributors should provide clearer information about factory, wholesale and retail prices.

He also called for more competition in the cement industry. In addition to Dangote Cement, BUA and Lafarge, he said Nigeria should encourage more investment and production capacity.

More competition could give buyers greater choice and reduce the risk of supply disruptions affecting prices.

Impact on Nigeria’s Housing Crisis

The cement market matters directly to Nigeria’s housing sector because cement remains an important construction material.

When cement prices rise sharply, developers and individuals face higher building costs. Developers may pass some of these costs to buyers through higher property prices.

Higher construction costs can also affect rental housing. When it becomes more expensive to develop new properties, landlords and developers may seek higher returns to recover their investment.

The latest price surge has therefore added another challenge to Nigeria’s housing affordability problem.

While some industry operators believe the current increase may result from temporary supply shortages, sustained price volatility could make it harder for households to plan and finance home construction.

Greater supply, stronger competition, transparent pricing and lower production and logistics costs could help bring more stability to the market.

For Nigeria’s housing sector, a more predictable cement market would provide greater certainty for developers, contractors and prospective homeowners.

The post Cement Price Surge Worsens Nigeria’s Housing Affordability Crisis appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Ogun promotes flexible housing finance

The Ogun State Government is expanding its affordable housing programme as it seeks to help more residents become homeowners.

The government is using flexible financing, new housing projects and community regeneration to address some of the barriers to home ownership.

State Commissioner for Housing, Jamiu Omoniyi, disclosed this during an X community conversation on affordable housing, financing and opportunities in Ogun State. More than 2,500 people took part in the discussion.

Omoniyi said many prospective homeowners struggle with the high cost of construction. He also noted that many residents cannot afford to pay the full cost of a house at once.

Rent-to-Own scheme targets more residents

The commissioner highlighted the proposed Prince Court Estate at Kobape Phase IV as one of the projects offering a flexible route to home ownership.

He urged prospective buyers to consider the Rent-to-Own scheme for the estate. Gateway Mortgage Bank is partnering with the state government on the scheme.

The arrangement could help residents who cannot afford an outright property purchase. It allows the government to link housing delivery with a financing option for eligible beneficiaries.

Omoniyi said the state’s housing policy goes beyond building houses. He said the government also wants to create conditions that allow genuine beneficiaries to access and maintain their homes.

More housing projects across Ogun

The government has developed housing schemes in several parts of the state. These include Kobape Phases I–III, Kemta, Itanrin, Ikenne and Iperu.

According to Omoniyi, the projects target different groups of middle-income earners. The government has also expanded its intervention to existing communities through regeneration projects.

READ ALSO : How FG’s N10bn Housing Scheme Could Ease Nigeria’s Housing Burden on Civil Servants

These projects include areas such as Ibara GRA in Abeokuta and GRA Ijebu-Ode. The regeneration work aims to improve existing neighbourhoods while supporting economic activity in the built environment.

Housing projects create artisan jobs

Omoniyi also pointed to the impact of the ministry’s direct-labour approach.

He said more than 5,000 artisans had gained income opportunities through various housing project sites.

The approach allows local artisans to take part in housing construction. It also helps the ministry monitor projects more closely and reduce some construction costs.

The commissioner said the model also increases opportunities for local content providers within Ogun’s built environment.

Government subsidises land and infrastructure

Omoniyi described housing as a social service of government. He said the state subsidises land costs and provides major infrastructure within its estates.

These measures aim to reduce the financial burden on beneficiaries. Land, infrastructure and construction costs can significantly affect the final price of a home.

The government is also working to improve security of tenure for people who have subscribed to its housing schemes.

Omoniyi said the ministry was clearing a backlog of title documents. The process includes documentation for beneficiaries of estates delivered before 2019.

Ogun moves to protect genuine beneficiaries

The commissioner urged prospective homeowners to patronise the state’s housing schemes.

He said the ministry would continue to monitor developments after allocating houses and plots. It will also work to protect genuine beneficiaries and reduce speculation within government housing schemes.

The government said its wider objective is to turn affordable housing projects into secure and sustainable home ownership. It also wants housing construction to support economic activity across Ogun State.

Ogun’s approach shows why affordable housing requires more than the construction of new homes. Financing, land costs, infrastructure and secure property documentation all affect access to home ownership.

By combining housing development with flexible financing, community regeneration and title documentation, the state is seeking to address several parts of the housing challenge at the same time. The success of these efforts will depend on how effectively residents can access the schemes and sustain ownership over time.

The post Ogun Expands Affordable Housing Drive to Boost Home Ownership appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

By Adebayo Tobi

Nigeria’s housing conversation has focused heavily on one question: How many homes does the country need to build?

With the country facing a housing deficit estimated at more than 28 million units, increasing housing supply is clearly important. But there is another question that deserves just as much attention: How many Nigerians can actually afford the homes being delivered?

That question could define the next phase of Nigeria’s housing and real estate market.

Across Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan and other growing urban centres, residential development continues to expand. New estates, apartments and gated communities are appearing in areas where demand for housing remains strong.

Yet a growing number of Nigerians are finding themselves priced out of homeownership.

READ ALSO : Why Government JVs Struggle to Deliver Affordable Housing in Nigeria

The house may exist, but can people afford it?

Housing affordability is not simply about the price attached to a property.

For a prospective homeowner, affordability also depends on income, mortgage rates, deposit requirements, land costs, construction expenses, transportation, infrastructure charges and the general cost of living.

This means that a property can be technically available without being financially accessible.

A young professional may have a stable income and still struggle to raise the required deposit. A family may be able to afford monthly payments but not the initial equity contribution. Another household may find a property within its budget but reject it because its location creates unaffordable transportation costs.

These realities show why Nigeria’s housing challenge cannot be solved by construction alone.

The affordability gap is widening

The cost of delivering housing has become a major concern for developers and buyers.

Land, building materials, labour, infrastructure and financing all influence the final price of a property. When these costs rise, developers face pressure to increase selling prices or reduce the scale and specifications of projects.

Buyers, meanwhile, are dealing with household incomes that may not increase at the same pace as property prices.

This creates what can be described as an affordability gap  the distance between the cost of available housing and what households can realistically pay.

Closing that gap should become a central part of Nigeria’s housing conversation.

Developers must understand the real market

The private sector has an important role to play.

Developers naturally respond to market opportunities, and there will always be demand for premium residential developments. But Nigeria also needs housing products designed around the purchasing power of the broader population.

The question should not only be, “What can we build?”

It should also be:

“Who is the intended buyer, and can that buyer realistically afford it?”

This requires developers to pay closer attention to housing design, location, construction methods, infrastructure costs and payment structures.

Smaller but well-planned homes, efficient designs and phased developments could provide alternative ways of reducing the entry cost for some buyers.

Financing remains a critical piece

Even where property prices are relatively manageable, access to long-term housing finance remains important.

For many households, homeownership cannot be achieved through savings alone. A functioning mortgage market, longer repayment periods and suitable financing products can help spread the cost of purchasing a home over a period that is more consistent with household income.

Developers and financial institutions also have room to explore innovative payment models that can make property acquisition more accessible.

The objective should be simple: make the journey to homeownership financially realistic.

Government also has a role

The affordability challenge cannot be left entirely to developers.

Government policies on land, taxation, infrastructure, planning, building regulation and housing finance can significantly influence the cost of delivering homes.

Efficient land administration can reduce delays and uncertainty. Better infrastructure planning can reduce the burden developers pass on to buyers. Clear and predictable regulations can also improve the environment for housing investment.

At the same time, housing policy must recognise that affordable housing is not simply about constructing cheaper buildings. It is about creating communities where people can live safely and sustainably without housing consuming an unreasonable share of their income.

The opportunity in Nigeria’s housing market

Nigeria’s housing challenge is enormous, but so is the opportunity.

Millions of people need decent homes, while developers, investors, financial institutions and construction professionals are searching for sustainable opportunities.

The market can bring these interests together if affordability becomes a stronger part of the development equation.

Nigeria does not only need more houses.

It needs more homes that ordinary working Nigerians can realistically aspire to own.

The future of the housing industry should therefore be measured not only by the number of units delivered, but also by whether those units create genuine pathways to homeownership.

The biggest opportunity may be found in the space between what Nigerians need, what they earn, and what the market currently offers.

Bridging that gap will require collaboration, innovation and a willingness to rethink conventional approaches to housing delivery.

The post Nigeria’s Housing Market Needs Homes People Can Actually Afford appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged Nigeria and other major African economies to strengthen fiscal, monetary and governance reforms as part of efforts to improve economic stability and promote broader-based growth.

In its assessment of reform priorities across eight of the African Union’s largest economies, the IMF identified fiscal reform as a key priority in all but one of the countries reviewed. For Nigeria, the areas highlighted include tax policy, revenue collection, public financial management and more efficient government spending.

The Fund also identified improvements to monetary policy frameworks and policy transmission as priorities for Nigeria, Egypt and Ethiopia. In Nigeria’s case, it said governance reforms should include stronger fiscal transparency, better public financial management and improved anti-corruption measures.

The IMF said stronger domestic revenue mobilisation and more transparent and efficient public spending would help African economies build more resilient institutions. It argued that stronger fiscal and monetary frameworks can support sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

Nigeria’s tax reform agenda

The recommendations come as the Federal Government continues to implement a wide-ranging reform of Nigeria’s tax system. The new framework, which took effect in January 2026, is built around the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act.

The reforms are intended to simplify tax administration, remove overlapping taxes, improve compliance and broaden government revenue. They are also designed to reduce the regulatory and tax burden on smaller businesses.

However, businesses continue to cite taxation as a major operating challenge. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s July 2026 Business Expectations Survey found that 70.8 per cent of respondents identified high and multiple taxation as their biggest constraint, ahead of insecurity and high interest rates.

For the housing and construction sectors, the quality of fiscal policy has direct implications. Developers, contractors and property businesses operate within a wider environment shaped by taxation, public infrastructure spending, interest rates and access to finance. Changes that improve tax administration while reducing unnecessary duplication could affect project costs and investment decisions.

Monetary policy remains a concern

The IMF’s call for stronger monetary policy frameworks follows an aggressive tightening cycle by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in recent years.

After Olayemi Cardoso became CBN governor in 2023, the bank pursued tighter monetary and liquidity conditions alongside foreign exchange reforms. The measures were aimed at addressing inflationary pressures, strengthening market confidence and improving macroeconomic stability.

The Monetary Policy Rate stood at 18.75 per cent in 2023 before the CBN began raising it in 2024. The benchmark rate increased to 22.75 per cent in February 2024 and eventually reached 27.5 per cent by the end of that year.

The CBN also increased banks’ Cash Reserve Ratio from 32.5 per cent to 45 per cent in early 2024 and later to 50 per cent as part of efforts to reduce excess liquidity.

The policy environment has since moved towards gradual easing as inflationary pressures moderated and economic conditions improved. Presidential aide Tope Fasua has nevertheless argued that the country should reconsider its tight monetary stance, warning that persistently high interest rates could restrict economic expansion without delivering the desired reduction in inflation.

Financing risks and infrastructure

The IMF’s concerns also extend to Nigeria’s approach to sovereign financing. In June, the Fund cautioned the country over plans to raise as much as $5 billion through a derivatives-based financing arrangement with First Abu Dhabi Bank.

The IMF warned that such structures can expose governments to significant risks because their terms may be difficult to evaluate fully.

The Federal Government has also secured about $1.2 billion in financing from the United Arab Emirates for construction of a major section of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.

Infrastructure financing remains important to Nigeria’s wider development prospects because transport networks and public investment influence access to housing, construction activity, land values and the expansion of urban centres.

For Nigeria, the IMF’s recommendations therefore extend beyond macroeconomic indicators. Stronger public finances, effective monetary policy, transparent governance and disciplined infrastructure financing can shape the operating environment for businesses and determine how effectively public resources support economic and urban development.

The post IMF Urges Nigeria to Deepen Fiscal, Monetary and Governance Reforms appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Members of the Brumuke Sana Family in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have protested over an unresolved compensation dispute involving land used for an oil and gas facility.

The family, supported by community members, held a peaceful protest last week against Renaissance African Energy Company Limited. The company now operates assets formerly owned by Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited (SPDC).

The protesters accused the company of using their ancestral land without paying what they consider fair compensation. They carried placards calling for payment and recognition of their land rights.

Dispute Over 7,382.805 Square Metres

The dispute concerns about 7,382.805 square metres of land. The Brass Creek Oil and Gas Manifold and Heliport occupies the property.

The facility links the Tunu, Opukushi and Beniseide Flow Stations with the Forcados Terminal in neighbouring Delta State. The family says the land has supported oil operations for years without a settlement of its compensation claim.

Family representatives also alleged that they have not received royalties or other benefits linked to the use of the property.

Family Seeks Government Intervention

Community representatives said they have tried several ways to resolve the dispute. They said they sent petitions to Renaissance Energy, the Bayelsa State Government, the police, the Joint Task Force and other agencies.

Chief Ken Aguna and former community women leader Mrs Butter Felix-Anebi said the petitions have not produced a solution.

The family head, Bonaze Maxwell Brumuke, said the dispute has placed a heavy financial burden on him. The octogenarian has spent years pursuing the matter through petitions and court processes.

According to the family, Julius Berger assessed the land in 1993. They claim that the assessment did not lead to payment of compensation.

Community Leaders Support Land Claim

Traditional leaders from the Peretoru-Gbene Federated Communities have also backed the family’s claim.

Dr Timi Odikeme Okere (Foukeregha IV), the Secretary to the Chiefs Council, Awulu Dumbo, and Chief Edward Ayiba said the community recognises Brumuke as the legitimate owner of the disputed land.

Chief Osadebe Okoun and Chief Tekearede Oyabrade also supported the family’s position.

The community leaders called on Renaissance Energy to meet with the family and address the compensation dispute. They said a settlement would help reduce tension in the oil-producing area.

Land Rights and Infrastructure

The dispute highlights the importance of clear land ownership and fair compensation when companies develop infrastructure on community land.

Land remains a key part of Nigeria’s infrastructure and development system. Oil facilities, roads, housing projects and other developments often depend on access to land.

Clear ownership records can help reduce disputes between landowners, companies and government agencies. Fair compensation can also help communities participate in development without losing their property rights.

For the Brumuke Sana Family, however, the immediate issue remains its claim for compensation over the land occupied by the Brass Creek facility.

As of the time of filing, attempts to obtain a response from Renaissance African Energy Company Limited were unsuccessful.

The family and community leaders are calling for direct talks with the company. They want the long-running dispute resolved through a process that recognises the family’s claim to the land and addresses its compensation concerns.

The case also shows why effective land administration matters to infrastructure development. When ownership and compensation issues remain unresolved, disputes can continue for years and affect both communities and companies operating in the affected areas.

The post Bayelsa Family Demands Compensation Over Oil Facility Land appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Nigeria has ranked 56th among the world’s 60 poorest countries in a 2026 ranking by Global Finance magazine.

The ranking uses GDP per capita based on purchasing power parity (PPP). Nigeria recorded $9,532.92, placing it close to the upper end of the list.

However, Nigeria fell 12 places from its 44th position in the 2025 ranking. The decline places the country among several African economies with low GDP-PPP per capita.

Africa dominates the ranking

African countries make up nine of the 10 poorest countries on the 2026 list. Yemen is the only non-African country in the bottom 10.

Burundi ranks as the poorest country, with GDP per capita of $994.23. The Central African Republic follows with $1,437.72. South Sudan ranks third at $1,467.19.

Yemen comes fourth with $1,590.19. Mozambique, Malawi, Somalia, Liberia, Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of the Congo complete the bottom 10.

The ranking uses PPP to compare economic conditions across countries. The measure adjusts for differences in prices, living costs and inflation.

This provides a different picture from nominal GDP per capita. It focuses more on the amount of goods and services that income can buy within each economy.

Nigeria ranks above several African economies

Nigeria ranks above several African countries on the list. Niger is 11th with $2,108.46, while Sudan ranks 13th with $2,427.43.

Burkina Faso is 16th with $3,060.34. Lesotho ranks 17th at $3,211.83, followed by Chad and Guinea-Bissau.

Mali takes 20th place with $3,480.41. Togo ranks 21st, while The Gambia and Sierra Leone occupy the 22nd and 23rd positions.

Uganda ranks 26th with $3,923.83. Rwanda and Tanzania follow at 29th and 30th.

Zambia ranks 31st with $4,380.77. Ethiopia follows at 32nd with $4,498.55. Guinea and Benin rank 33rd and 34th respectively.

Senegal occupies 37th place with $5,440.63. Cameroon follows in 38th position with $5,782.69.

Kenya ranks 44th with $7,590.60. Zimbabwe is 46th with $7,985.23, while Côte d’Ivoire takes 48th place with $8,165.34.

Ghana ranks 51st with $8,613.25. Mauritania is 52nd at $8,831.81, while Djibouti ranks 55th with $9,435.70.

Nigeria comes next at 56th with $9,532.92. Nicaragua ranks 57th with $9,765.25.

Nigeria’s economic position and housing

Nigeria’s ranking also has implications for the housing and real estate sectors.

Household income affects the ability of families to pay rent, buy land or purchase homes. It also influences demand for mortgages and other forms of housing finance.

Lower purchasing power can make housing costs harder to manage. It can also limit the number of households that can afford formal housing in major cities.

The construction sector faces similar pressures. High costs for land, building materials, labour and finance can make new housing more expensive.

These challenges make affordable housing policies important for Nigeria. Housing programmes must also consider household incomes and access to finance.

Wider African picture

The ranking shows that low-income economies remain heavily concentrated in Africa. Countries across West, East, Central and Southern Africa appear throughout the lower part of the table.

Angola ranks 59th with $10,274.90. Laos ranks 60th with $10,379.98, placing it at the bottom end of the ranking despite being outside Africa.

The 2026 figures also show notable changes from the previous ranking. Burundi moved from second place to first, while South Sudan fell from first to third.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo moved from seventh to 10th. Nigeria recorded one of the more notable changes, falling from 44th to 56th.

For Nigeria’s housing sector, the figures highlight the link between economic capacity and access to decent housing. Income levels affect homeownership, rent affordability, mortgage access and the ability of households to invest in property.

The ranking therefore offers more than an economic comparison. It also points to the importance of stronger incomes, affordable housing supply, accessible housing finance and effective infrastructure investment in improving living conditions.

The post Nigeria Ranks 56th Among World’s Poorest Countries in 2026 appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The United States may revoke the tourist and business visas of up to 200,000 foreign nationals who have applied for asylum after entering the country.

The Trump administration is considering the move as part of its wider immigration crackdown. The Associated Press reported the plan after reviewing State Department documents and speaking with two U.S. officials.

If the administration proceeds, the action could become the largest mass visa revocation in U.S. history. The State Department could start notifying affected visa holders in the coming weeks.

Who could lose their visas?

The proposed policy focuses on people who hold B1 or B2 visas and later applied for asylum in the United States.

B1 visas generally cover business travel. B2 visas cover tourism, family visits and medical treatment.

The proposed review would cover B1 and B2 visas issued from 2016 through 2026. U.S. authorities are working to identify visa holders who entered the country as temporary visitors and later filed asylum applications.

State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott confirmed the coordination with the Department of Homeland Security. He did not give a final figure for the number of visas that officials could revoke.

Pigott said officials would handle the reviews on a rolling basis. As a result, the final number could change.

Visa cancellation may not mean immediate deportation

Losing a B1 or B2 visa would not automatically lead to immediate deportation.

U.S. officials told the Associated Press that some people could continue their pending asylum cases under another immigration status. They would, however, lose their classification as business or tourist visitors.

The proposal has also drawn criticism from asylum advocates and could face legal challenges if the administration implements it.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau has criticised people who enter the United States on temporary visas and later seek asylum. He has argued that people should not use asylum claims to avoid normal immigration rules.

Part of wider immigration enforcement

The visa proposal follows a broader increase in U.S. immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump.

The State Department says it has revoked about 175,000 visas over the past 18 months. Those cases involved people convicted or accused of offences such as drunken driving, rape and robbery.

Officials have also cancelled some visas after holders publicly criticised U.S. policies.

The administration has separately pursued restrictions on birth tourism. It has also sought to end birthright citizenship. Courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have blocked those efforts.

Possible impact on Nigerians

The policy could attract attention in Nigeria because many Nigerians travel to the United States for business, tourism, family visits and investment.

Visa changes can also affect people involved in cross-border business. This includes real estate investors, property developers and professionals who work between Nigeria and the United States.

For Nigeria’s housing sector, international mobility can support diaspora investment and business partnerships. Changes to U.S. immigration rules could therefore matter to Nigerians planning property purchases, investments or other commercial activities in the United States.

The issue also highlights the importance of understanding the conditions attached to temporary visas. Visitors who enter the United States must comply with the terms of their immigration status.

US continues to tighten immigration rules

The State Department documents show that the latest review began after immigration authorities shared information about asylum applications filed by current B1 and B2 visa holders.

The administration has also increased efforts to remove migrants to countries other than their countries of origin. A February 2026 report cited by Nairametrics said Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee estimated that the U.S. government had spent more than $40 million to deport about 300 migrants to third countries.

Those transfers involved countries such as Rwanda, Palau, Eswatini, El Salvador and Equatorial Guinea. The report said Rwanda received seven deportees at a cost of about $1.1 million per person.

The proposed visa revocations remain under review. The U.S. government has not confirmed that it will cancel exactly 200,000 visas.

For international travellers, the development signals a stricter approach to visa enforcement. Nigerians and other foreign nationals who plan to travel, invest or conduct business in the United States will need to pay close attention to changes in U.S. immigration rules.

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