HDAN Commends Wike as Infrastructure Development Transforms FCT Real Estate

Says massive investment in roads and public infrastructure is unlocking new opportunities for housing, investment and economic growth

By Housing TV Africa

The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), Africa’s leading and pioneering non-governmental advocacy organisation dedicated to housing development, has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, for what it described as the unprecedented pace of infrastructure development across the nation’s capital, noting that the projects are already reshaping the real estate landscape and opening up new frontiers for housing and investment.

HDAN has, for decades, championed policy reforms, affordable housing initiatives, housing finance, land reforms, real estate regulation and sustainable urban development across Africa. Through sustained advocacy, strategic partnerships and high-level stakeholder engagement, the organisation has made significant contributions to advancing housing development in Nigeria and across the continent, earning recognition as one of Africa’s foremost voices on housing policy and sector reforms.

In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Festus Adebayo, HDAN said that strategic investments in roads, bridges, interchanges and other critical infrastructure have become one of the strongest catalysts for real estate growth in the FCT, significantly increasing land values, attracting private sector investment and accelerating urban expansion.

According to Adebayo, one of the greatest lessons from successful cities around the world is that infrastructure drives real estate development.

“Where roads go, development follows. Where government provides quality infrastructure, investors naturally move in. Housing estates spring up, businesses expand, jobs are created and property values appreciate. This is exactly what we are witnessing today in many parts of the Federal Capital Territory.”

HDAN observed that communities that were once regarded as distant or unattractive to investors are rapidly emerging as prime residential and commercial destinations because of improved accessibility and government investment in infrastructure.

The Network noted that ongoing road construction and expansion projects are unlocking the economic potential of several districts and satellite communities, encouraging developers to embark on new housing projects while giving confidence to financial institutions, mortgage providers and other investors.

According to HDAN, infrastructure development remains one of the most effective government interventions for reducing the cost of housing delivery. Improved road access, drainage systems and other public facilities lower development costs, shorten project timelines and make it easier for developers to deliver quality housing to Nigerians.

The organisation further stated that beyond real estate, infrastructure investment stimulates economic activities across multiple sectors, including construction, manufacturing, transportation, hospitality, retail, financial services and professional consultancy, thereby creating thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities.

HDAN urged the FCT Administration to sustain the current momentum by extending infrastructure to more satellite towns and emerging districts, stressing that balanced development across the territory would help reduce pressure on the city centre while making affordable housing more accessible to low- and middle-income earners.

The Network also encouraged stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to maximise the benefits of infrastructure investment through planned urban expansion, serviced land development and increased private participation in housing delivery.

Adebayo emphasised that Nigeria’s housing challenge cannot be solved through mortgage finance alone.

“Access to infrastructure is just as important as access to finance. A plot of land without roads, electricity, drainage and water has limited value. But once government provides infrastructure, that same land becomes attractive for housing, commerce and industry. Infrastructure is the foundation upon which sustainable cities are built.”

He added that the remarkable transformation taking place across the FCT demonstrates the importance of visionary infrastructure investment in driving economic growth, improving the quality of life of residents and strengthening investor confidence in Nigeria’s real estate sector.

HDAN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that promote sustainable urban development, affordable housing and responsible real estate growth, while calling on other state governments across Nigeria to emulate the FCT by making infrastructure development a central pillar of their housing and economic development strategies.

“The transformation we are witnessing in Abuja is a powerful reminder that strategic investment in infrastructure is one of the fastest ways to stimulate real estate development, create wealth, attract investment and improve the living standards of the people. We commend the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for this bold approach and encourage the sustained execution of projects that will continue to unlock the enormous economic potential of the Federal Capital Territory.”

The post HDAN Commends Wike as FCT Infrastructure Development Boosts Abuja Real Estat appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Tinubu hands over 10 judges quarters in  Katampe, President Bola Tinubu has commissioned 10 newly completed residential units for Federal High Court judges located in the Katampe District of Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to improve welfare conditions within the judiciary.

Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, described the project as a step toward strengthening the justice system by ensuring that judicial officers operate in a secure and stable environment. He noted that the administration’s infrastructure drive is aimed at reinforcing key democratic institutions.

The Tinubu hands over 10 judges quarters Katampe project forms part of broader federal efforts to provide adequate housing for judges, with officials stating that improved welfare is essential for maintaining judicial independence and efficiency.

According to the President, the provision of residential accommodation is not just an infrastructure project but a deliberate investment in strengthening the rule of law and institutional integrity.

He explained that the government expects judicial officers to reciprocate the investment by ensuring fair, swift, and transparent dispensation of justice across the country.

The Vice President further highlighted that the Renewed Hope Agenda focuses on rebuilding trust in public institutions through targeted reforms and infrastructure development.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was commended for driving the completion of the housing project, which is part of a larger plan to upgrade infrastructure across Abuja.

Wike noted that additional judges’ quarters are also being delivered in phases for different courts within the capital, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to judicial welfare.

Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, welcomed the development, describing it as a long-awaited intervention that addresses decades of accommodation challenges faced by judicial officers.

He added that improved living conditions would allow judges to focus more effectively on their responsibilities within the justice system.

Officials from the Federal Capital Development Authority also explained that the project is part of a wider housing scheme involving multiple units designed to serve the judiciary in the Federal Capital Territory.

The development reflects ongoing government efforts to improve infrastructure, strengthen governance institutions, and support public sector efficiency.

The post Tinubu Hands Over 10 Judges’ Quarters at Katampe Abuja appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended the construction of houses for judges and justices in Abuja, insisting that the projects would not compromise the independence of the judiciary.

Wike made the remarks on Friday after inspecting ongoing judicial infrastructure projects, including judges’ residences, the Court of Appeal Abuja Division, and proposed housing projects for judges of the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

The minister was reacting to concerns reportedly raised by the Nigerian Bar Association over executive involvement in providing infrastructure for the judiciary.

Dismissing the criticisms, Wike argued that government provision of facilities for judicial officers was not new and should not be interpreted as interference with the judiciary.

“The mere fact that the executive constructs buildings does not mean it will interfere with the judiciary,” he said.

“We have built public houses for the National Assembly and for the judiciary before. The Supreme Court was built by the government. So there is nothing new in this.”

Wike also accused the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association of inconsistency, alleging that the association often seeks financial support from state governments for its conferences and activities while criticising government interventions in the judiciary.

“All they are interested in is when state governments will sponsor NBA activities. If governments fund their conferences, does that mean they are no longer independent?” he queried.

The minister maintained that the FCT Administration would continue implementing projects aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of judges and justices across the country.

“This is a voluntary act by government to make judicial officers comfortable and focused on their work. It is not done to erode judicial independence,” he added.

Wike explained that the judicial projects form part of activities lined up to commemorate President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

He expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the judges’ quarters project, describing the development as well executed and almost ready for inauguration.

“We’ve seen the judges’ quarters beautiful. I’m very elated that the job was done well. The houses are well furnished and almost 99 per cent ready,” he stated.

The minister further disclosed that preparations had commenced for the groundbreaking ceremony of residential projects for judges of the Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

However, Wike expressed dissatisfaction with some aspects of the finishing work at the Court of Appeal Abuja Division project despite its advanced stage of completion.

“Almost 90 per cent complete, but I must say it’s not the quality I expected. I have told the contractor that several errors must be corrected before inauguration,” he said.

He assured that the administration would continue monitoring contractors to ensure projects are delivered according to approved specifications and timelines.

“All the promises that have been made, we are going to fulfil them. That is why we are going around to inspect and ensure contractors are ready,” the minister added.

The post Wike Defends Judges’ Housing Projects, Rejects Fears Over Judicial Independence appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended the FCT Administration’s policy of allocating land to diplomatic personnel and investors, insisting the process follows established government procedures aimed at promoting development and investment.

Wike spoke on Thursday in Abuja while inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects across the Federal Capital Territory.

The minister criticised individuals and organisations questioning the policy, accusing some of hypocrisy and selective criticism despite previously benefiting from similar land allocations.

According to him, land allocation remains a legitimate government tool for encouraging urban development and economic growth within the capital city.

“When you live in a glass house, don’t throw stones. Some of those criticising the policy were also allocated land, and they are not among the poor,” Wike said.

He also took a swipe at media organisations opposing the policy, arguing that media businesses operate commercially and should not pretend otherwise.

The minister noted that media houses generate income through advertisements, sponsored coverage, and commercial news content to sustain their operations.

Wike dismissed claims that the FCT Administration was selling public land, clarifying that allocations are granted under clearly defined investment and development conditions.

“The FCT does not sell land; it allocates land based on specific agreements and development conditions,” he stated.

He explained that all beneficiaries, including diplomats, are required to pay statutory processing fees before obtaining Certificates of Occupancy.

The minister further revealed that many of the disputed land allocations being criticised were originally approved by previous administrations.

According to him, governance is a continuous process and cannot be separated from decisions made by former officials.

“Government is continuous. You cannot pretend that previous allocations did not happen simply because leadership has changed,” he said.

Wike also warned that all allocated lands must be developed according to agreed timelines and conditions or risk revocation by the government.

He cited the case of Jabi Lake, where land allocated decades ago reportedly remained undeveloped before being reclaimed and reassigned to new investors.

The minister rejected arguments that prime lands should be reserved only for low-income residents, stressing that strategic locations require significant investment to transform them into world-class economic and tourism hubs.

“Prime locations require serious investment and proper development. Emotional arguments will not build modern cities,” he added.

Wike maintained that his administration would continue to prioritise practical development policies and infrastructural growth over populist sentiments.

“I will always stand by the truth. What matters is development and results, not public applause,” he said.

The post Wike Defends FCT Land Allocation to Diplomats, Blasts Critics appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Kwara State Government has taken ownership of a 132-unit National Housing Programme Estate located in Ogbondoroko, Asa Local Government Area, following its official transfer from the Federal Government.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, received the estate’s documents and keys during a formal handover ceremony.

The governor said the acquisition forms part of his administration’s efforts to reduce the housing deficit and expand access to affordable housing across the state.

“This is another effort to bridge the housing deficit in Kwara and provide sustainable accommodation for residents,” he said.

The estate comprises 132 housing units, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom detached and semi-detached buildings designed to cater to different income groups.

Representing the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, the Director of Public Buildings and Housing, Architect Musa Abdullahi, commended the state government for taking over the project in the public interest.

He noted that the National Housing Programme was initiated to address Nigeria’s housing shortfall and improve access to decent housing nationwide.

Dangiwa also disclosed that the Federal Government has awarded a contract for a new Renewed Housing Estate in Kwara, with construction expected to commence soon.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Shuaib Belgore, described the handover as a reflection of effective collaboration between federal and state governments.

He added that the development underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen infrastructure and support economic growth in the state.

Nigeria continues to face a significant housing deficit, particularly in urban areas, driven by population growth, urban migration, and years of underinvestment in public housing.

The National Housing Programme, introduced under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, aims to deliver affordable housing across all states through various financing options, including mortgages and rent-to-own schemes.

The post Kwara Takes Over 132-Unit Federal Housing Estate to Tackle Housing Deficit appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said Nigeria’s new tax laws will create opportunities for economic growth and inclusivity, ending decades of fragmented colonial-era legislation that, he said, had impoverished citizens.

Speaking on Tuesday at the commissioning of the 16-storey Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) Headquarters, the President described the reforms as people-centered and investment-friendly, aimed at boosting economic competitiveness and restoring confidence in public institutions.

“The new tax system is designed to reward enterprise, support growth, and ensure that every contribution to the national cause is matched by tangible value for the people,” Tinubu said, commending the NRS for improving fiscal stability, trade efficiency, and investor confidence.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas joined the President at the event, praising the reforms and the completion of the NRS building within 30 months—over two decades after its foundation was laid.

Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the NRS, highlighted that over 60 outdated tax laws had been streamlined into a single, coherent framework, noting the revenue system’s dramatic improvement—from N6.8 trillion collected five years ago to N28.7 trillion in 2025.

The headquarters, built by China Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CECC), houses facilities for 3,000 staff, a data processing center, auditorium, clinic, library, gym, and training facilities.

Tinubu said the building symbolizes a new standard of transparency, professionalism, and efficiency, reiterating the government’s commitment to reform, accountability, and long-term prosperity.

The post Tinubu Commissions NRS Headquarters, Promises Economic Growth with New Tax Reforms appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

BudgIT, a leading budget transparency and accountability organisation, has raised alarm over widespread project fraud across Nigeria after uncovering 92 fraudulent projects nationwide.

The revelation is contained in BudgIT’s 2024/2025 Tracka Report, released on Thursday, which monitored the implementation of 2,760 government-funded projects across 28 states of the federation.

According to the report, the 92 projects were categorised as “fraudulent” due to diversion of funds, poor execution, relocation of projects without approval, and repeated budgetary allocations for projects already completed in previous cycles.

BudgIT explained that while 1,438 projects were completed, 99 were abandoned, 660 were ongoing, and 471 had not commenced despite funding, highlighting deep-rooted inefficiencies in Nigeria’s public expenditure system.

The organisation noted that Imo State recorded the highest number of fraudulent projects at 17.43 per cent, followed by Lagos with 12.73 per cent, Kwara at 11.76 per cent, Abia with 10.67 per cent, and Ogun at 8.33 per cent. Together, the five states accounted for over 57 per cent of all fraudulently delivered projects, involving about ₦8.61 billion out of the ₦15.07 billion allocated to such projects.

BudgIT said the Tracka initiative also carried out targeted monitoring of strategic infrastructure, including dam projects, revitalised primary healthcare centres, and federally funded projects in the Niger Delta, to assess their impact on national development.

In the dam sector, Tracka monitored 16 projects across 13 states valued at ₦432 million. The report found that none had been completed, with four abandoned, six progressing slowly, and six yet to commence despite receiving funds.

Similarly, 47 revitalised primary healthcare centres tracked across 25 states showed mixed results, with only 26 recording visible improvements, while others were either under renovation, untouched, or abandoned.

In the Niger Delta region, BudgIT tracked 48 federally funded projects across Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers states. While 29 projects were completed, 13 had not commenced, four were ongoing, and two could not be traced despite confirmed funding.

Commenting on the findings, Head of Tracka, Joshua Osiyemi, stressed that budgetary allocations alone do not guarantee development, calling for stronger citizen participation and government accountability.

He urged governments to publish detailed project data, improve supervision, ensure timely fund disbursement, and prioritise projects with real social impact. Osiyemi also encouraged citizens to actively monitor projects in their communities using civic platforms like Tracka to reduce corruption and improve service delivery.

Despite the challenges identified, the report highlighted 15 success stories driven by citizen engagement, including completed healthcare centres, school renovations, erosion control projects, disability empowerment programmes, and access to clean water in several states.

The post BudgIT Flags 92 Fraudulent Projects Nationwide appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate linking of the Airport Road to Tunga Madaki and nearby communities as part of efforts to expand road connectivity within Abuja.

Wike gave the directive during an on-the-spot assessment of ongoing road construction projects in the area, stressing the need to open up underserved communities and ease traffic congestion across the FCT.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, the minister disclosed that Wike personally inspected the newly constructed road designed to connect the Airport corridor with Tunga Madaki and other surrounding parts of the capital city.

According to the statement, the minister also instructed that construction work should commence on extending the road further towards Zuba, noting that improved access routes would enhance economic activities and improve residents’ quality of life.

Wike explained that road connectivity remains a key priority of the FCT Administration, particularly in linking satellite towns and rural communities to major economic and transport corridors.

He noted that Abuja has witnessed visible transformation since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, attributing the progress to the administration’s strong focus on infrastructure development.

The minister stated that ongoing projects across the FCT, including road construction, rehabilitation, and expansion, are aimed at decongesting the city centre while ensuring inclusive development for communities on the outskirts of the capital.

Wike further assured residents that the FCT Administration would continue to monitor projects closely to ensure quality delivery and timely completion, adding that no contractor would be allowed to abandon assigned projects.

Residents of the affected communities have welcomed the development, describing the planned road linkage as a major relief that would reduce travel time, improve security, and boost commercial activities.

The road expansion initiative forms part of broader efforts by the FCT Administration to modernise Abuja’s infrastructure and position the capital city as a functional and accessible metropolis.

If you want, I can also:

Adapt this for Vanguard, Punch, or Guardian house style

Optimise it specifically for Rank Math or Yoast

Cut it to exact Google News word limits

Create a social media version or push notification title

The post Wike Approves Extension of Airport Road to Tunga Madaki, Zuba Axis appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Urban planning experts have raised fresh concerns over persistent violations of land-use regulations in Abuja, warning that continued disregard for development control laws threatens the integrity of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Master Plan.

Citing provisions of Sections 47 to 63 of the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law, town planners note that enforcement powers are clearly vested in Development Control Departments, with statutory authority to issue stop-work orders, quit notices and demolition directives for unauthorised or dangerous developments. These measures, experts argue, are essential to preventing encroachment on public infrastructure, resolving land disputes and maintaining orderly urban growth.

Despite the legal framework, compliance has remained uneven, particularly among influential property owners. Planning professionals say violations are often driven by personal interest and unchecked privilege, creating pressure on infrastructure and public services. Abuja’s population was initially projected at about 3.1 million, with residential density controls designed to ensure sustainability. However, widespread overdevelopment of plots has contributed to overcrowding and overstretched utilities in several districts of the city.

Former development control officers recount years of resistance, intimidation and hazards encountered while carrying out enforcement duties, especially in high-value districts such as the Central Area. In several documented cases, plots designated for public infrastructure were illegally annexed by adjoining private developments, prompting stop-work notices and demolition orders that were later contested through political influence.

One such case involved a hotel owner who repeatedly defied enforcement actions despite multiple notices. Although senior officials within the Development Control Department upheld the legality of enforcement decisions, the matter became prolonged after the developer gained political leverage. The dispute reportedly persisted for years, highlighting how elite interference can undermine regulatory institutions.

Planning professionals say such experiences are not isolated. Comparable confrontations reportedly involved former top public office holders, including heads of service and senior security officials, reinforcing concerns that status often shields violators from accountability. Advocates of stronger urban governance argue that failure to enforce development regulations uniformly risks turning parts of Abuja into informal settlements, contrary to the city’s original design.

The renewed debate comes amid a broader enforcement drive by the FCT Administration under Minister Nyesom Wike, who has repeatedly vowed that no individual or institution would be exempt from land-use regulations. Analysts say consistent enforcement, free from political interference, remains critical to preserving Abuja’s planning ideals and preventing what they describe as the “vanity of land abuse” in the nation’s capital.

The post FCTA Enforcement Powers, Abuja Land Abuse and the Cost of Elite Impunity appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has defended the revocation of land allocations at the Abuja Technology Village and the University of Abuja, saying the decision was necessary to stop misuse and drive proper development.

He said the Abuja Technology Village remained untouched for over 20 years despite FCTA providing infrastructure. Instead of development, he alleged the land was being rented out and used for parking tankers.

“There’s nothing like Abuja Technology Village,” Wike stated. “It’s just land grabbing. People now claim ownership with questionable C of Os.”

The minister said the land will now be used for the Abuja City Walk, a new urban project inspired by Dubai’s City Walk. A private investor has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the FCTA.

Wike also announced a new land policy: undeveloped land within a set time will automatically revert to the government. This, he said, will prevent future hoarding by speculators.

On the University of Abuja, Wike said the school still retains 4,000 hectares enough for future expansion. He dismissed claims that most of the land is rocky, noting that projects like the EFCC Academy are already underway there.

He also highlighted recent revenue gains, revealing that the newly reopened Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre has generated over ₦1.2 billion in just one month compared to only ₦50 million annually under previous management.

Wike said these efforts are part of a broader push to modernize Abuja with world-class infrastructure and enforce accountability in land administration.

The post Wike Breaks Silence on Abuja Land Revocations appeared first on Housing TV Africa.