The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has urged a new approach to solving Africa’s housing problems. They want solutions that are innovative, collaborative, and locally driven.
Margaret Oguntala, the President of NSE, made this call at the 2025 Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) held in Abuja. She was the special guest of honour at the event.
Oguntala described the event’s theme “Re-imagining Housing: Overcoming Challenges to Opportunities through Innovation, Collaboration and Policy” as both timely and forward-thinking.
She said, “Access to decent housing is a basic human right. It is also vital for sustainable development.”
Oguntala stressed that African governments need to act quickly. She called for more investments in housing, better policies, and stronger partnerships across all levels.
According to her, many countries are already adopting new building methods. These include prefabricated housing, modular designs, 3D-printed homes, and the use of recycled and carbon-storing materials.
She also noted that financing models are changing. Tools like co-ownership, crowdfunding, and community-led projects are helping more people access affordable housing.
The NSE President said the group supports the use of local materials and technologies. She believes this will lower costs, create jobs, and boost local economies.
“Using local content in construction is key. It makes housing more affordable and benefits our people,” she said.
Oguntala also called for better teamwork. She said that real change in the housing sector will come only if all players work together.
These include government bodies, developers, financial experts, policymakers, and international partners.
“We must join forces,” she said. “Innovation, shared goals, and strong cooperation will help us build the future of housing in Africa.”
