The Cross River State Government has unveiled plans to deliver 1,500 affordable housing units across the state, while urging housing corporations nationwide to adopt innovative and scalable models capable of addressing Nigeria’s growing housing deficit.

Commissioner for Housing, Dr. Beatrice Igwe, made the call on behalf of Governor Bassey Otu at the opening of a two-day national workshop organised by the Association of Housing Corporations of Nigeria (AHCN) in Calabar.

The workshop, themed “Affordable Housing Solutions for Low-Income Earners in Emerging Housing Markets,” brought together stakeholders to explore sustainable strategies for expanding access to affordable homes.

Igwe said Nigeria’s housing demand continues to outpace supply, particularly because conventional financing models remain inaccessible to many low-income earners.

She disclosed that the Cross River State Government is implementing an innovative Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) model under Governor Otu’s People First agenda to accelerate housing delivery.

According to her, the state will officially break ground on a 500-unit Okuni Housing Estate in the Central Senatorial District on July 4, 2026. Similar projects are planned for the Northern and Southern senatorial districts, bringing the total number of proposed housing units to 1,500 statewide.

The commissioner also revealed that a separate 50-unit free housing project for indigent women has reached about 80 per cent completion.

She urged housing corporations to standardise building designs, embrace innovation and strengthen partnerships with institutions such as the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and Family Homes Funds Limited to improve access to affordable housing finance.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, Arc. Dennis Pau Ishaya said the Federal Government was implementing reforms to reposition the housing sector as a catalyst for economic growth, employment and social inclusion.

He said the Renewed Hope Housing Programme is currently delivering housing projects across the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory, with a focus on local building materials, improved mortgage access, urban renewal and increased private sector participation.

Earlier, President of the Association of Housing Corporations of Nigeria, ESV. Eno Obongha, described housing as a critical indicator of economic development and social stability.

He said Nigeria’s widening housing deficit requires innovative construction methods and financing solutions that can deliver affordable homes at the scale needed to meet the country’s rapidly growing population.

Obongha urged stakeholders to move beyond discussions on construction costs and focus on practical solutions that would make homeownership more accessible for low-income Nigerians.

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The Cross River State Government has launched a series of projects and policy reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening public service delivery.

Represented by Deputy Governor Peter Okey, Governor Otu performed the groundbreaking for 1,000 housing units under the People First Housing Scheme at Ikot Efiokon Etim in Akpabuyo Local Government Area. The project is designed to address housing challenges faced by civil servants and improve their living conditions.

At the New Secretariat Complex in Calabar, the administration also flagged off the construction of a Civil Service Staff Club and Event Centre, expected to serve as a hub for recreation, networking, and engagement among public servants.

In a parallel development, the government unveiled the Cross River State Civil Service Manual and an official Civil Service Song at the State Library Complex. Officials say the manual will guide operations and discipline within the service, while the song is intended to strengthen unity and institutional identity.

Speaking during the events, Governor Otu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising workers’ welfare and enhancing professionalism in governance. He noted that the combined focus on infrastructure and policy reform reflects a broader strategy to reposition the public service for improved performance.

He also urged civil servants to align with ongoing reforms by upgrading their skills and adapting to evolving service demands.

The programme featured a symposium on public sector transformation, with contributions from stakeholders including Winifred Oyo Ita, who emphasised innovation, integrity, and capacity development as pillars of a modern civil service. A book review session was delivered by Justice Ofem I. Ofem.

Head of Service, Orok Bassey Okon, described the initiatives as strategic steps toward building a more efficient and motivated workforce, expressing confidence in their long-term impact.

The day’s activities also included the Cross River Youth Unity and Assessment Programme, themed “Building Tomorrow Today: Youth Unity, Accountability and Representation,” where the governor encouraged young people to actively participate in governance.

Other top officials in attendance included Secretary to the State Government, Anthony Owan Enoh, alongside permanent secretaries, directors, and civil servants.

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Etomi community in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State has protested the planned sale of its cocoa estate. The peaceful protest happened on Wednesday.

Hundreds of farmers joined the march. They held placards with bold messages. Some signs read, “Our cocoa estate is not for sale” and “No to privatisation.”

Community leader Mbek Agbor-Tangban spoke during the event. He said their ancestors donated the land many years ago. The donation came with a clear agreement.

Mr. Agbor-Tangban said the community became concerned after a newspaper advert appeared. The notice was published on June 25, 2025. It invited bidders to take over the estate.

Women’s leader Ntunkai Mary-Ndum also shared her concerns. She said the land supports their families. If the government no longer wants to manage the estate, it should return the land to the people.

Youth leader Abang Shikina-Oji spoke about the history. He said the land was given to the government in 1957. The goal was to support local farmers.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Johnson Ebokpo, and the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, addressed the crowd. They promised that the government will review the issue carefully.

They said Governor Bassey Otu cares about the people. They also urged the community to stay calm during the review process.

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The project began after the Cross River State Government donated 25 acres of land in the Adiabo community. This generous gesture helped the initiative take off quickly.

Rt Hon. Victor Udofia, Special Adviser to the President of the Senate and contact for the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, visited the Obong of Calabar. During the visit, he thanked the state government for the land and the warm reception.

According to Udofia, the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda. It focuses on delivering quality homes to low- and middle-income earners. He praised Governor Bassey Otu for acting quickly. He also commended Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong for his support in bringing the project to the state.

Alfa Simeon, the Federal Controller of Housing in Cross River, spoke on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Ahmed Dangiwa. He shared that eight contractors have been assigned to the project. Four will handle infrastructure like roads, electricity, and water. The other four will build the housing units.

The first phase of the project includes 120 homes. These consist of one- and two-bedroom apartments. All units are designed to be affordable and expandable to meet the needs of families.

Simeon explained that the work will take place in two phases. However, Phase One will be completed and delivered before moving to Phase Two. This step helps prevent delays and ensures full project delivery.

Local leaders and residents welcomed the project with enthusiasm. They pledged their full support to help ensure its success and long-term impact on the community.

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