The Federal Government has started construction of 241 housing units in Osogbo, Osun State.

The project sits on 33.3 hectares of land at East Bypass in the state capital. The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) is developing the estate through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Summit Group Ltd.

At the same time, the FHA has announced the completion of 300 housing units in Bwari, Abuja. The units are now ready for commissioning.

FHA Uses PPP Model for Osun Project

The FHA Managing Director, Hon. Oyetunde Ojo, said the agency chose the PPP model to improve housing delivery.

Ojo spoke through the FHA Executive Director of Estate Services, Arc. Nya-Etok Ezekiel, at the ground-breaking ceremony in Osogbo.

He said the partnership would support innovation and improve efficiency. It would also help the project meet required development standards.

The FHA said the Osun project forms part of its wider effort to increase housing supply. The agency also aims to work with private investors to speed up development.

Nigeria continues to face a large gap between housing demand and supply. This makes new housing developments important for both urban growth and the construction sector.

Osogbo Estate to Include Commercial Facilities

The planned estate will use a mixed-use layout. It will combine residential buildings with commercial and recreational facilities.

The design will also include commercial and institutional areas. A clinic, police station, religious sites and a central sewage system are part of the planned infrastructure.

The FHA said the layout would bring homes, businesses and leisure facilities into one community. Such planning can help estates provide more than housing alone.

Summit Group Limited will construct the 241 housing units. Its Managing Director, Otunba Olalere Olabode, confirmed that the units would come in different sizes.

The 33.3-hectare site will therefore support a range of housing options within the same development.

FHA Highlights Housing Projects Across Nigeria

Ojo also highlighted other FHA projects across the country.

According to him, the agency began work on a partnership project in Ogun State on May 13, 2026. The FHA also launched the Renewed Hope Estate in Umuahia, Abia State, on April 11, 2026.

He said the agency had also pursued similar initiatives in Akwa Ibom and Kaduna states.

The FHA said these projects reflect its focus on housing delivery, job creation and economic growth. It also stressed the importance of considering local needs when planning new developments.

Bwari Housing Units Ready for Commissioning

The announcement of 300 completed units in Bwari adds another development to the FHA’s current housing portfolio.

Completion is an important stage in housing delivery. However, new estates also need supporting infrastructure and services to function effectively.

The Bwari project will now move towards commissioning, while the Osogbo development enters its construction phase.

Housing Delivery and Urban Development

The Osogbo project shows how government agencies can use private-sector partnerships to develop housing and supporting infrastructure.

PPP arrangements can help bring private investment and technical capacity into public housing projects. They can also spread development responsibilities between government agencies and private partners.

For prospective residents, however, the value of new housing will depend on factors such as location, infrastructure, housing size and affordability.

The two FHA developments in Osun and Abuja therefore highlight different stages of housing delivery. While the Osogbo project has just begun, the Bwari development has reached completion and is awaiting commissioning.

Both projects form part of the broader effort to increase housing supply and develop communities with supporting infrastructure. Their significance will ultimately depend on how effectively the homes meet the needs of residents and contribute to the growth of their respective locations.

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FHA property holdings near N5 trillion

The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) holds property worth nearly N5 trillion, its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Oyetunde Ojo, has said.

Ojo disclosed this during a media chat broadcast by Arise News TV on Monday. He discussed the authority’s housing projects, property management activities and plans to increase housing delivery across Nigeria.

The FHA manages residential estates and collects ground rent from allottees and occupants. Ojo linked the value of the authority’s property portfolio to those activities.

“We are in possession of close to about N5 trillion worth of property because we collect ground rent,” Ojo said.

The figure shows the scale of assets under the FHA as the federal government continues to expand housing development. It also highlights the role of property management alongside the construction of new homes.

FHA says thousands of homes are ready

Ojo said between 10,000 and 15,000 housing units are ready for delivery under the current administration.

He also said the government is working with private real estate investors to increase housing supply. He pointed to the MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) as one source of capital for private-sector housing projects.

READ ALSO :FHA Blames Developer for Port Harcourt Building Collapse, Says Approved Plan Was Altered

According to Ojo, about N200 billion has been released to the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and remains available for private investors to access.

The use of private capital could help expand housing construction. However, access to finance remains a major issue for developers and homebuyers in Nigeria.

FHA provides updates on Abuja projects

Ojo gave updates on several FHA projects across the country. The developments include housing schemes in Abuja, Ibadan, Lagos, Kano and Cross River State.

In Ajoda, Ibadan, the FHA has built about 120 housing units. Construction continues on additional units at the site.

The authority has also delivered 100 housing units in Lugbe, Abuja. In Gwari, nearly 400 units are nearing commissioning.

Ojo said the Gwari project did not receive funding from the Federation Account. He also disclosed that the FHA built 1,550 housing units for the Nigerian Army in Jibi, Abuja, in less than a year.

The units are expected to receive commissioning soon.

Karsana project targets 3,112 units

The Karsana housing development in Abuja remains one of the major projects under the federal government’s Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme.

The project covers 3,112 housing units. Ojo said the first phase, which contains about 2,000 units, should receive commissioning soon.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike is also constructing roads around Karsana. The road works should improve access to the housing development and surrounding areas.

The government launched construction of the Karsana project in February 2024. Since then, it has started several Renewed Hope housing projects in different parts of Nigeria.

Projects expand beyond Abuja

The FHA is also advancing projects outside the Federal Capital Territory.

Ojo said between 500 and 600 housing units in Kano should soon receive commissioning by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. He added that about 500 units in Lagos are also nearing completion.

The authority has started groundbreaking work on projects in several states. One of them is located in Odukpani, Cross River State, where the FHA expects to commission the development soon.

The federal government has also started a 250-unit housing project for federal civil servants in Dukpa, Gwagwalada, Abuja. The scheme includes two- and three-bedroom bungalows.

The new project will add to 350 units already delivered through the Federal Integrated Staff Housing Programme. Together, the two schemes will provide 600 units.

Housing finance remains a major challenge

The government’s housing plans come as Nigeria continues to face problems with housing finance, land administration and consumer protection.

The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria is also preparing to complete 962 housing units in Abuja. The project involves the Kaba District housing scheme, which the bank recovered after an alleged diversion of a $65 million loan used to finance it.

The government has proposed further reforms to address weaknesses in the housing market. These include a proposed National Housing Finance Authority and reforms to expand access to housing finance for informal-sector workers.

Another proposed policy, the National Housing and Built Environment Regulation Policy, would introduce measures such as developer licensing and escrow protection for buyers.

What the FHA disclosure means

The FHA’s property portfolio and its ongoing projects show the size of the federal government’s role in Nigeria’s housing market.

However, increasing the number of homes alone will not solve the country’s housing challenges. Buyers also need access to finance, reliable infrastructure, secure land titles and stronger protection in property transactions.

The success of current housing programmes will therefore depend on both construction and the systems that support housing delivery, financing, regulation and long-term property management.

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The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Mr. Oyetunde Ojo, has received an Award of Excellence from the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria (ACAN) in recognition of his efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability, and ethical governance within the authority. The award was presented in Abuja during a ceremony organised by the academy.

Presenting the award, the Provost of ACAN, Prof. Sheriff Ibrahim, said the recognition reflects Ojo’s commitment to promoting integrity and strengthening collaboration between the FHA, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and ACAN. He noted that the partnership is aimed at reducing corrupt practices and improving governance within the housing agency.

Responding to the honour, Ojo described the award as a recognition of the collective efforts of FHA staff rather than a personal achievement. He said the authority has introduced several institutional reforms designed to improve transparency, rebuild public confidence, and reduce opportunities for corruption in its operations.

According to the FHA Managing Director, one of the key reforms has been the digitalisation of the authority’s operations. He explained that automating critical processes has helped tackle challenges such as multiple allocations, document forgery, and other administrative irregularities that previously affected service delivery. The authority has also strengthened its procurement procedures by adopting stricter open-tendering processes supported by digital documentation.

Ojo added that the FHA intends to expand the use of automation and electronic platforms across its operations to reduce human discretion, improve traceability, and enhance institutional accountability. He noted that these reforms have contributed to a measurable decline in corruption-related allegations involving the authority while improving operational efficiency.

Also speaking at the event, the FHA’s General Manager for SERVICOM and Anti-Corruption Unit, Mrs. Ebere Alalib, said the award reflects the authority’s growing commitment to good governance and ethical leadership. She encouraged staff members to sustain the culture of professionalism, honesty, and accountability in carrying out their responsibilities.

Governance experts say digital transformation, transparent procurement systems, and stronger institutional oversight are becoming increasingly important in improving accountability across public sector organisations. They note that reforms aimed at reducing corruption can enhance investor confidence, improve service delivery, and strengthen public trust in government institutions.

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A tragic structural failure along Dr Peter Odili Road in the Port Harcourt City Local Government Area of Rivers State has resulted in one confirmed fatality and multiple injuries. Emergency response teams successfully extracted three individuals alive from the rubble after a five-storey building under construction suddenly gave way. The incident, which unfolded near the Eterna Filling Station, initially trapped an estimated seven construction workers under heavy debris, throwing the local community into panic.

Preliminary findings indicate that the project developer intentionally violated regulatory approvals and safety standards. While the Federal Housing Authority originally approved plans for a three-storey building at the site, the developer proceeded to erect a five-storey structure instead. Furthermore, state government officials revealed that the site engineer had previously ignored formal directives to halt construction operations after visible structural irregularities were discovered during a routine inspection. Technical experts visiting the scene noted that a visual assessment pointed toward the extensive use of substandard concrete, cement, and reinforcing steel bars.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially sealed the site and ordered a full-scale investigation into the disaster. Accompanied by urban development and physical planning officials, the governor stated that the developer had repeatedly rebuffed inspections by claiming state authorities lacked jurisdiction over the federally allocated land. Governor Fubara emphasized that compliance with engineering standards takes precedence over jurisdictional disputes, especially when human lives are lost. Multinational construction firm Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has deployed heavy excavators, mobile cranes, and specialized concrete cutters to coordinate with state emergency agencies as recovery operations continue at the site.

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Residents of Festac Town in the Amuwo-Odofin area of Lagos State have raised concerns over the alleged sale of critical public infrastructure, warning that the development could pose serious environmental, health and security risks within the estate.

The residents, under the umbrella of the Take Back Festac Movement, staged a peaceful protest on Saturday, accusing the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) of disposing of facilities originally designated for public use, including sewage treatment plants, waterworks, parks and buffer zones.

Speaking during the protest, the group’s president, Valentine Uduebo, described the alleged transactions as a threat to the future of the estate and called on President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene.

According to him, several sewage treatment facilities located across different parts of Festac Town had allegedly been sold to private interests.

“This facility behind us is a sewage management facility that serves residents in this area, yet it has been sold. The new owners intend to build food-related businesses on land meant for sewage management,” he alleged.

Uduebo also claimed that the estate’s Waterworks facility on 22 Road, as well as parks and recreational spaces, had been sold, warning that the loss of such infrastructure could negatively affect residents’ quality of life.

He further accused authorities of imposing multiple charges on property owners, alleging that residents are subjected to duplicate fees from both Lagos State agencies and the FHA.

“People pay building approval fees to Lagos State and are still required to make additional payments to the FHA. Residents see this as double taxation and extortion,” he said.

Health and Environmental Concerns

A medical practitioner and resident, Dr. Dumebi Owa, warned that converting sewage treatment facilities to other uses could create serious public health challenges.

“Sewage is meant to be properly managed and disposed of. If it is not properly handled, we risk outbreaks of diseases and serious public health challenges,” she said.

She also expressed concern over the alleged sale of parks and green spaces, noting that such developments could worsen environmental degradation and climate-related impacts.

Residents Demand Reversal of Sales

Another resident, James Ibekwe, who said he has lived in Festac Town since 1977, described the alleged transactions as a violation of the estate’s original master plan.

“We want the relevant authorities to act responsibly and revoke these sales. These sales are illegal, unconstitutional, null and void,” he said.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) in Amuwo-Odofin, Monsuru Salam, alleged that a security post on 51 Road serving multiple security zones had also been sold, raising concerns about security within the community.

FHA Dismisses Allegations

Reacting to the protest, FHA spokesperson Kenneth Chigelu dismissed the allegations and questioned why the protesters had not formally engaged the authority before going public.

“It has become a norm for people to wake up and start protests simply for publicity. Have they taken the time to come to the authority and channel their complaints?” he said.

Chigelu maintained that many of the issues raised predated the current administration and argued that some of the facilities cited by protesters had long ceased functioning.

“As for the sewage treatment facilities, the central system collapsed a long time ago. Have they shown you functioning treatment plants?” he queried.

He advised aggrieved residents to channel their complaints through recognised structures, including the Festac Town Residents Association, which he identified as the FHA’s official partner for community engagement.

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The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Darma, has uncovered major discrepancies in official progress reports on the federal government’s Renewed Hope Housing Project in Katsina State, revealing that only about 130 of the 250 housing units reported as completed were actually finished.

During an unannounced inspection of the project site, Darma discovered that official reports submitted to the ministry significantly overstated the level of progress achieved on the housing development.

According to documents presented to the ministry, 250 housing units had been completed. However, physical verification conducted by the minister showed that only about 130 units were ready for occupation, while the remaining 120 units were still incomplete despite contracts being awarded approximately 18 months ago.

Contractors Miss Deadlines by More Than a Year

The housing scheme was awarded in December 2024 with a six-month completion timeline, meaning the projects were expected to be completed by June 2025.

However, more than a year after the deadline, several contractors had yet to complete critical road infrastructure and housing units within the estate.

“It is not good for someone who has signed a contract agreement and said he will finish a project within a specified period, only to delay it for over three times the agreed duration without obtaining an extension,” Darma said during the inspection.

The minister dismissed claims by some contractors that inadequate funding was responsible for the delays, stressing that none of the affected firms formally applied for an extension of time as required under government contract procedures.

“None of them did that, and as far as we are concerned, they have violated the contract agreement,” he stated.

Government Raises Concerns Over Construction Quality

Beyond the discrepancy in completion figures, the inspection also revealed signs of early deterioration in some completed structures, raising concerns about the quality of construction work.

Darma warned that the Federal Government would not accept defective buildings from contractors.

“If we take over these houses and find them in bad shape, we will not accept them. The contractors will be required to fix all defects before handover,” he said.

The minister noted that the findings highlighted the dangers of relying solely on reports submitted from project sites without conducting independent verification exercises.

Comprehensive Audit Ordered

Following the inspection, Darma directed ministry officials to convene an urgent meeting with all contractors handling the project.

He also ordered a comprehensive audit of the contracts, including details of contractors involved, dates of mobilisation, contract terms, funds released, project timelines and actual completion percentages.

The report is expected to be submitted to his office before the middle of the week.

Renewed Hope Housing Programme Targets 15,000 Units Nationwide

The Katsina housing scheme forms part of the Federal Government’s broader Renewed Hope Housing Programme, which aims to deliver more than 15,000 housing units across Nigeria through direct government funding, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA).

With the current administration approaching the final phase of its tenure, the challenges observed in Katsina underscore wider implementation issues affecting one of the government’s flagship housing initiatives.

Darma Vows to Complete Projects Before End of Administration

Despite the setbacks, the minister reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the successful delivery of the housing projects.

He disclosed that a technical assessment team would conduct a detailed evaluation of all work completed at the site to verify compliance with required standards before any handover takes place.

“Before the end of this administration, I want to see between 80 and 90 per cent of these projects completed and delivered to people. Housing is meant for human beings, not rodents and animals,” Darma said.

The Federal Government has continued to position the Renewed Hope Housing Programme as a key strategy for addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit, promoting homeownership and stimulating economic activities within the construction sector.

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The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Rabe Darma, has expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of work on the Renewed Hope Cities housing project in Katsina State, warning that contractors who fail to meet contractual obligations could face sanctions.

Speaking during an inspection of the project site, the minister criticized contractors handling various components of the housing scheme for failing to deliver projects within agreed timelines.

Contractors Accused of Violating Contract Terms

Darma noted that several contracts awarded in December 2024 were expected to be completed within six months, but some contractors have yet to finish their assignments more than one and a half years later.

While commending contractors who successfully delivered projects such as the electrification component and a 128-unit housing estate, the minister expressed concern over delays affecting road infrastructure and other housing developments.

“It is not acceptable for a contractor to sign an agreement with a specific completion timeline and then exceed that period by more than three times without obtaining an extension,” he said.

Funding Challenges Not an Excuse

According to the minister, some contractors blamed inadequate funding for the delays. However, he insisted that such explanations do not exempt contractors from complying with contractual requirements.

He explained that contractors facing challenges are expected to formally apply for an extension of time through the ministry.

“If a contractor cannot complete a project within the agreed timeline, the proper procedure is to return to the ministry and request an extension. None of them did that, and they have therefore violated the terms of their contracts,” Darma stated.

Ministry Orders Comprehensive Contract Review

The minister directed officials of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to immediately convene a meeting with all contractors involved in the project.

He also ordered the preparation of a detailed report covering contract award dates, project durations, completion levels, and the identities of the contractors responsible for each assignment.

“I want a comprehensive report on every contract at this site. We need to know who was awarded the contracts, the duration, terms, and percentage of completion. The report should reach my office by Tuesday or Wednesday,” he instructed.

Government Rejects Substandard Housing Delivery

Darma expressed concern over signs of deterioration observed in some structures, warning that contractors would not be allowed to hand over defective projects.

According to him, any identified defects must be corrected before the government accepts the housing units.

“If we take over these houses and discover defects, we will reject them until the contractors rectify every issue,” he said.

Quality Assessment to Continue

Despite concerns over delays, the minister commended the construction quality of some of the housing units inspected.

He disclosed that he did not observe visible structural cracks in the buildings visited but emphasized that a technical assessment team would carry out a comprehensive evaluation before final acceptance.

“From my observations, the construction quality appears satisfactory. However, experts will conduct a detailed technical assessment before any handover takes place,” he added.

Over 15,000 Housing Units Under Construction Nationwide

Darma revealed that the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is currently implementing more than 15,000 housing units across Nigeria through multiple financing arrangements.

These include direct government funding, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA).

Minister Questions Reported Completion Figures

The minister cautioned against relying solely on official progress reports, noting discrepancies between reported and actual project completion rates at the Katsina site.

While ministry officials indicated that 250 housing units had been completed, Darma said physical inspection suggested that only about 130 units were fully finished.

Commitment to Deliver Housing Before End of Administration

Darma assured Nigerians that the ministry remains committed to completing and allocating housing units to beneficiaries before the end of the current administration.

He pledged to devote the necessary time, expertise, and resources to ensure the success of the Renewed Hope Cities programme.

“I will commit my time, intellect, effort, and energy to ensuring these projects are completed. Before the end of this administration, I want to see between 80 and 90 percent of these housing projects delivered to Nigerians. Housing is meant for people, not rodents and animals,” he said.

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The Federal Government and the Abia State Government have entered into a joint partnership to develop a new housing estate in Umuahia, aimed at expanding access to affordable housing and improving urban infrastructure.

The clarification was made by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, following a State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

Project Not Solely Federal Initiative

Kanu explained that the proposed estate, under the Federal Housing Authority, is not exclusively a federal project but a collaborative effort between both tiers of government.

He noted that the state government provided the land, reinforcing its active role in the development.

“The project is designed to expand access to affordable housing, promote urban development, and support sustainable community growth,” he said.

Concerns Over Farmland Addressed

The government also responded to concerns that the estate would be built on rice farmland, potentially affecting food production.

According to Kanu, the project aligns with a balanced development strategy that considers both housing needs and agricultural sustainability.

“We need food, but we also need affordable housing for residents,” he stated.

Government Dismisses Criticism

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, dismissed criticisms of the project as politically motivated.

He emphasised that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving living standards and infrastructure across the state.

Urban Transport Reforms Underway

Beyond the housing initiative, the state government outlined broader urban development plans in Umuahia.

These include relocating commercial transport operators from Okigwe Park to a new ultra-modern bus terminal nearing completion.

Traders around Isi Gate will also be temporarily moved to Okigwe Park pending the completion of Afara Market.

Rail Development in Discussion

The state is also in talks with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to establish a new train station near the proposed bus terminal, alongside the development of an urban rail corridor.

Officials say these projects form part of a comprehensive strategy to modernise infrastructure, boost economic activity, and improve quality of life for residents.

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The has called on the to establish dedicated housing estates nationwide for retired military personnel and widows of officers who died in active service.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by , who represents in , during plenary on Thursday.

Lawmakers Raise Concern Over Military Welfare

Presenting the motion, Jallo said many members of the retire without access to decent and affordable housing despite years of service to the nation.

He also expressed concern about the welfare of widows and dependants of officers who lost their lives while serving the country.

According to him, the absence of structured housing support has left many military families vulnerable to economic hardship.

“Provision of decent post-service housing is a critical component of military welfare and a practical demonstration of national appreciation for the sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces,” he stated.

Existing Military Housing Agencies Identified

Jallo noted that several service-based housing institutions already operate within Nigeria’s security sector and could support such an initiative.

These include:

• of the Nigerian Army
• of the Nigerian Navy
• Housing schemes operated by the and

FHA Proposed as Lead Agency

The lawmaker suggested that the should coordinate a nationwide housing programme by integrating existing initiatives into a unified framework.

According to the House, the and the should designate the FHA as the lead implementing agency.

Widows, Dependants to Benefit

Lawmakers also recommended that a defined percentage of housing units be reserved specifically for widows and dependants of military personnel who died in active service.

They warned that failure to institutionalise a structured housing framework for retired personnel could negatively affect morale and welfare within the armed forces.

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Festac Town, once hailed as one of Africa’s largest and most organized estates when it opened in 1977, is facing a serious environmental threat. Original buffer zones designed to mitigate flooding, absorb wastewater, and provide greenery are now heavily encroached by commercial shops, mosques, mechanic workshops, petrol stations, and markets. Residents and environmentalists are warning that the estate is now at risk of flooding, pollution, and structural damage.

Pa Isibor Ehimen, who lived in Festac as a young artist, recalls the estate’s glory days. “I have never seen such beauty and organized living anywhere else in Nigeria,” he said. But today, the estate’s original charm has faded, with shanties and makeshift structures replacing the carefully planned residential areas.

Buffer zones, initially designed as windbreakers and environmental safeguards, have been drastically compromised. “Before, you could not see neighboring areas from Festac because the trees in the buffer zones offered full coverage,” said Ademola Onitiri, a concerned resident. “Now, those zones are filled with buildings, motor parks, and markets. It’s a disaster waiting to happen.”

Residents report that drainage systems are blocked by construction along the buffer zones, leading to frequent flooding even during minor rains. “We have dug the drainages countless times, yet water still accumulates because these structures disrupt the flow,” said Chimezie Agumbah. The encroachment not only threatens flood control but also undermines the ecosystem, as the green zones help filter air, absorb carbon dioxide, and maintain a balance within the urban environment.

The Federal Housing Authority (FHA), tasked with regulating construction in Festac Town, has taken some action in the past. During the tenure of former MD Gbenga Ashafa, over 500 illegal shops were demolished. However, residents say the current FHA leadership under Oyetunde Oladimeji Ojo, appointed in February 2024, has done little to prevent further encroachments. “Illegal structures continue to sprout despite assurances,” said Yakubu Inuwa, a resident and immigration officer.

Environmentalists warn that the loss of buffer zones increases vulnerability to extreme weather events. “Festac will be submerged by flood if these green zones are gone,” said Abidemi Olayemi, an agronomist. Esther Obeya, an environmentalist based in Abuja, noted that improper waste and rainwater management could accelerate soil erosion, building collapse, and health hazards.

Amuwo-Odofin Local Government, where Festac Town is located, has raised concerns with the FHA about the encroachments, but residents report that responses are slow. Road rehabilitation projects on 2nd and 7th Avenue are expected to improve traffic flow and mobility, yet the effectiveness will depend on clearing buffer zones of illegal constructions.

Residents urge the government to take immediate measures, including continued demolition of unauthorized structures, enforcement of the master plan, and restoration of green spaces. “The buffer zones are essential not only for flood control but also for preserving Festac Town’s status as one of Africa’s largest planned estates,” said Esther Obeya.

Without decisive action, experts warn that Festac Town faces compounded environmental risks, including flooding, pollution, and infrastructure collapse. Residents, urban planners, and environmentalists continue to call on the FHA and Lagos State government to act before the estate suffers irreversible damage.

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