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.

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Housing development is increasingly becoming part of a broader urban transformation strategy in Ogun State, where new residential projects are emerging alongside roads, infrastructure and expanding economic activity.

One of the areas reflecting this transformation is the corridor around Kobape and the Siun-Sagamu Expressway, where locations that were once largely undeveloped are gradually taking on the characteristics of emerging residential communities.

Under Governor Dapo Abiodun, the state government has positioned housing as an important component of its wider development agenda, linking residential construction with infrastructure and the expansion of urban centres.

The approach reflects a shift from viewing housing simply as the construction of individual homes to treating residential development as part of a larger urban-planning process.

Housing and Infrastructure Moving Together

The growth of new housing communities depends heavily on infrastructure.

Road networks, drainage, electricity, water supply and other services determine whether a housing development can evolve into a functioning neighbourhood.

The development around the Kobape corridor illustrates how new residential projects can contribute to the expansion of Ogun’s urban footprint when supported by improving connectivity and infrastructure.

For Ogun, this is particularly important because of its proximity to Lagos and its growing role as a destination for residential development, manufacturing and other economic activities.

As land becomes increasingly expensive in parts of Lagos, neighbouring areas of Ogun have attracted developers and households looking for alternatives.

Kobape and the Emerging Ogun Urban Corridor

The landscape around Kobape provides an example of how housing can accelerate development in previously underdeveloped areas.

Residential construction brings demand for roads, commercial centres, schools, healthcare facilities and other services. As more people move into an area, private businesses also have greater incentives to establish operations there.

This can create a development cycle in which housing becomes an entry point for broader urban expansion.

However, the long-term success of such developments depends on whether infrastructure keeps pace with population growth.

The Affordability Question

Increasing the number of houses is important, but housing delivery ultimately has to be measured by accessibility.

A development can transform an area physically without necessarily solving the housing affordability problem if the completed homes remain beyond the reach of average households.

This makes issues such as land cost, construction expenses, mortgage availability and household income critical to the success of housing programmes.

For Ogun, the challenge will be ensuring that urban expansion produces communities that are not only attractive to investors but also accessible to workers and families who need affordable housing.

Beyond Building Houses

The wider significance of Ogun’s housing strategy lies in its potential to connect residential development with economic growth.

Well-planned housing can support population growth around employment centres while reducing some of the pressure on Lagos.

But that outcome requires coordinated planning.

Without adequate transportation, drainage, public services and land-use controls, rapid housing development can create new challenges, including congestion, flooding and infrastructure deficits.

The lesson is that housing policy cannot be separated from urban planning.

As Ogun continues to expand, the effectiveness of its housing strategy will ultimately depend not just on how many houses are built, but on whether those developments become sustainable, connected and economically productive communities.

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HBM Nigeria Plc, formerly Lafarge Africa Plc, has reported a strong financial performance for the first half of 2026, recording a 31% increase in revenue and a 57% rise in profit after tax (PAT). The company attributed the growth to higher cement sales volumes, improved operational efficiency, and stronger distribution performance amid sustained demand for building materials.

According to the company’s unaudited financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2026, net sales rose to ₦678.4 billion, up from ₦517.0 billion in the corresponding period of 2025. Profit after tax climbed to ₦208.3 billion, while operating profit increased by 51% to approximately ₦291 billion, reflecting improved cost management and operational excellence.

HBM Nigeria said revenue growth was supported by an 11% increase in sales volume, enhanced plant stability, improved logistics, and continued demand from infrastructure and construction projects across the country. The company also recorded stronger operating margins, which rose from 37% in H1 2025 to 43% in H1 2026, highlighting gains in production efficiency and disciplined cost control.

The company noted that its cement business remained the primary revenue driver, accounting for the vast majority of total sales during the period. It added that strategic investments in operational improvements and distribution efficiency continue to strengthen its competitive position within Nigeria’s building materials industry.

Looking ahead, HBM Nigeria said it remains focused on expanding production capacity, maintaining operational excellence, and creating long-term value for shareholders. The company is also progressing plans for a new three-million-tonne integrated cement production line in Calabar, a project expected to strengthen domestic cement supply and support Nigeria’s growing infrastructure and housing sectors.

Industry analysts say HBM Nigeria’s strong half-year performance reflects continued resilience in the construction materials market despite broader economic challenges. They note that sustained investment in cement production and operational efficiency will remain critical to meeting rising demand from housing, commercial real estate, and infrastructure development across Nigeria.

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The Ogun State Executive Council has approved the construction of 450 housing units, new legislators’ quarters, and several key infrastructure projects as part of the state government’s efforts to improve housing delivery, strengthen public infrastructure, and support sustainable urban development.

The approvals were announced after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Dapo Abiodun. According to the government, the projects are designed to address housing needs, improve accommodation for public officials, and stimulate economic activities through increased investment in construction and related sectors.

The housing project will comprise 450 residential units to be developed in strategic locations across the state, forming part of the administration’s broader commitment to expanding access to quality and affordable housing for residents. Officials said the initiative is expected to create employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and contribute to Ogun State’s economic growth.

In addition to the housing development, the council approved the construction of new legislators’ quarters to provide improved residential accommodation for members of the Ogun State House of Assembly. The government said the project is intended to enhance the working environment for lawmakers while supporting the effective discharge of their legislative responsibilities.

The Executive Council also approved several complementary infrastructure projects, including road construction and rehabilitation works aimed at improving connectivity, easing transportation, and supporting residential and commercial development across the state.

Governor Abiodun reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that improves the quality of life for residents while creating an enabling environment for private investment. He noted that housing and infrastructure remain central to the state’s development agenda and are critical to attracting businesses, supporting urban expansion, and driving inclusive economic growth.

Stakeholders believe the approval of the housing and infrastructure projects will strengthen Ogun State’s position as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing investment destinations while helping to address housing demand and improve public infrastructure.

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Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have begun discussions on a strategic partnership aimed at attracting investment into Nigeria’s housing and infrastructure sectors, as both countries seek to deepen bilateral cooperation and address the nation’s housing deficit. The proposed collaboration is expected to promote affordable housing delivery, create jobs, and strengthen long-term economic ties between the two nations.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, held talks in Abuja with the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Muhammad Al-Balawi, to explore opportunities for collaboration in real estate investment, infrastructure development, and technology transfer. Discussions also covered Nigeria’s participation in the Riyadh Real Estate Future Forum (RFF) 2027, which is expected to bring together global investors and industry stakeholders.

Darma said international partnerships remain essential to achieving the Federal Government’s housing objectives under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that Nigeria’s large housing demand presents significant investment opportunities and expressed optimism that Saudi Arabia’s experience in large-scale housing delivery could support efforts to expand access to decent and affordable housing across the country.

The minister added that the proposed partnership could encourage Saudi developers and investors to participate in Nigeria’s real estate market while facilitating the exchange of technical expertise, modern construction technologies, and best practices in housing development. According to him, greater foreign investment would help accelerate housing delivery, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen the construction industry.

Saudi Ambassador Yousef Bin Muhammad Al-Balawi reaffirmed his country’s readiness to support Nigeria’s housing development efforts. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s achievements through its National Housing Company and said the Kingdom is willing to share its experience in housing development, urban planning, and project delivery. He also noted that the partnership could create employment opportunities for qualified Nigerian professionals and skilled workers in Saudi Arabia’s housing and construction sector.

Both countries agreed that stronger cooperation in housing, infrastructure, investment, and technology would contribute to sustainable urban development while reinforcing diplomatic and economic relations. Stakeholders believe the partnership could unlock new financing opportunities, increase private sector participation, and support Nigeria’s efforts to reduce its housing deficit through international collaboration.

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Stakeholders in Nigeria’s housing and urban development sector have endorsed the Federal Government’s renewed partnership with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), describing the collaboration as a significant step towards addressing rapid urbanisation, expanding access to affordable housing, and promoting sustainable city development.

The experts noted that Nigeria’s urban population continues to grow as more people migrate to cities in search of employment and better living conditions. They warned that without strategic planning and sustained investment in infrastructure, housing, and public services, cities will face increasing pressure from traffic congestion, inadequate housing, informal settlements, and overstretched social amenities.

A property developer, Chief Anthony Izuagbe, urged governments to adopt proactive planning by expanding infrastructure ahead of population growth rather than reacting after existing facilities become overwhelmed. He stressed that anticipating future demand is essential for building resilient and liveable cities.

Similarly, retired infrastructure professional Mrs. Chinonye Onyekoji highlighted the need for long-term urban planning, particularly in Lagos and other rapidly growing cities. She said strategic investments in transportation, housing, and public infrastructure are necessary to accommodate population growth and improve residents’ quality of life.

The endorsement follows a meeting between the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, and the UN-Habitat Regional Director for Africa, Oumar Sylla, during which both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation on sustainable urban planning, affordable housing delivery, climate resilience, slum upgrading, institutional capacity building, and the implementation of Nigeria’s National Urban Development Policy.

The minister described urban renewal as a key driver of economic growth, improved security, and better living standards. He expressed confidence that continued collaboration with UN-Habitat would provide Nigeria with technical expertise, global best practices, and stronger development partnerships needed to build inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities.

Urban development experts believe that strengthening the partnership between the Federal Government and UN-Habitat will accelerate housing delivery, improve urban governance, enhance land-use planning, and support climate-resilient infrastructure capable of meeting the needs of Nigeria’s rapidly expanding urban population.

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Nigeria’s housing sector could become one of the strongest drivers of economic transformation if it is positioned as an industrial development strategy rather than simply a social welfare programme. Experts argue that expanding housing delivery has the potential to stimulate manufacturing, create millions of jobs, deepen local supply chains, and accelerate the country’s ambition of becoming a $1 trillion economy.

According to industry analysts, addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit should go beyond constructing residential units. They contend that every housing project should strengthen domestic industries by encouraging the production of locally manufactured building materials, developing technical skills, supporting indigenous contractors, and promoting technology transfer. Such an approach would ensure that housing investments generate long-term economic value beyond the buildings themselves.

The report emphasised that partnerships with international developers and investors should be structured to build Nigeria’s industrial capacity rather than create dependence on foreign expertise. Large-scale housing programmes, it noted, should leave behind stronger local companies, skilled workers, improved manufacturing capability, and sustainable construction technologies that enable the country to scale future housing delivery independently.

Stakeholders also highlighted the importance of integrating housing policy with broader economic development objectives. Increased investment in infrastructure, affordable mortgage financing, land administration reforms, and industrial production would not only improve access to housing but also stimulate economic activity across multiple sectors, including cement, steel, logistics, finance, and professional services.

Experts believe that housing remains one of the few sectors capable of creating employment across every stage of the value chain, from raw material production and construction to transportation, retail, and property management. They argue that a well-designed national housing strategy could significantly expand the middle class by creating higher incomes and improving homeownership opportunities.

They concluded that Nigeria’s path to a $1 trillion economy will depend not only on building more homes but on using housing as a catalyst for industrialisation, wealth creation, innovation, and inclusive economic growth. By transforming housing into a productive economic sector, the country can generate lasting benefits that extend far beyond reducing its housing deficit.

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The Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, has urged the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) to intensify its engagement with the National Assembly in pursuing constitutional amendments that would strengthen physical planning and regional development across Nigeria. He said legislative reforms are necessary to improve coordinated planning and support balanced national development.

Speaking during a meeting with the leadership of the NITP in Abuja, the minister advised the institute to advocate for the transfer of town planning from the residual legislative list to the concurrent legislative list. According to him, such a constitutional amendment would provide a stronger legal framework for effective physical planning and regional development across the country.

Momoh also responded to the institute’s request for increased recruitment of professional town planners into the federal civil service. He explained that employment decisions fall under the responsibility of the Federal Civil Service Commission but directed the ministry’s Permanent Secretary to formally document the manpower needs and forward them to the appropriate authorities for consideration during future recruitment exercises.

The minister further encouraged town planning consultants to register with relevant federal agencies to improve their eligibility for consultancy opportunities. He also disclosed that the Ministry of Regional Development has submitted four strategic policy frameworks to the Federal Executive Council, focusing on spatial equity, regional economic transformation, infrastructure connectivity, and human capital development. He noted that professional town planners would play a key role in implementing these policies once approved.

Earlier, NITP President, Dr. Ogbonna Chime, called for stronger collaboration between the institute and the ministry. He advocated the establishment of a dedicated town planning department within the ministry, increased recruitment of qualified town planners, and greater involvement of professionals in preparing and implementing regional development plans across Nigeria.

Stakeholders believe the proposed constitutional amendment could strengthen urban planning, improve land use management, and support more sustainable infrastructure and housing development across the country.

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The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has called for a reduction in cement prices in Nigeria, urging manufacturers to support the Federal Government’s infrastructure and housing development efforts by making the product more affordable.

Umahi made the appeal during the rebranding ceremony of Lafarge Africa Plc to HBM. He noted that cement remains a critical component of road construction, housing projects, and other infrastructure developments, stressing that lower prices would help accelerate ongoing projects and reduce construction costs nationwide.

The minister expressed concern over the high cost of cement despite the availability of raw materials and local production capacity in the country. He said affordable cement prices would not only benefit government projects but also ease the financial burden on individuals and private developers undertaking building projects.

Speaking at the event, officials of HBM reaffirmed the company’s commitment to maintaining quality standards and contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth through continued investment in manufacturing and sustainable business practices.

Industry stakeholders noted that cement prices have remained a major concern for builders and property developers, with rising construction costs affecting housing delivery and infrastructure expansion across the country. They added that stable and affordable pricing could significantly improve access to housing and stimulate activity within the construction sector.

Analysts believe that collaboration between government and cement manufacturers will be essential to addressing cost challenges and supporting the country’s broader development objectives, particularly in housing and infrastructure.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and creating an enabling environment for industrial growth while encouraging manufacturers to align with national development priorities.

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The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has secured land in 28 states as part of efforts to expand affordable housing projects and improve access to decent homes across Nigeria. The agency said the initiative forms part of its strategy to establish a stronger presence nationwide and address the country’s persistent housing deficit.

According to the authority, several states have already allocated prime land for the development programme, while construction activities have commenced in some locations following the award of contracts. Groundbreaking ceremonies have already been conducted in states including Akwa Ibom, Abia, Kaduna, Abeokuta, and the Federal Capital Territory.

The FHA also disclosed that it is implementing reforms aimed at improving service delivery and safeguarding property records. As part of these efforts, the agency has commenced the digitalisation of its property files and is working towards full automation of its operations. The authority added that its test laboratory for geological and integrity assessments has become operational.

The agency noted that it has completed and commissioned several inherited projects over the past 26 months, including housing developments in Ibadan and Abuja that were previously considered difficult to complete. It added that work is also progressing on a 336-unit housing estate in Bwari, Abuja, with plans to commission the project before the end of the year.

The authority assured prospective homeowners and investors that it would maintain high standards of quality assurance, transparency, and accountability in delivering its projects. It also expressed appreciation to government institutions, regulatory agencies, and host communities for their support in advancing the housing initiatives.

Industry stakeholders have described the housing projects as evidence of the opportunities within Nigeria’s real estate sector and the potential of collaboration between government and private developers to improve housing delivery. They noted that affordable housing projects can stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and support related industries across the country.

Officials from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation also stated that the projects align with ongoing efforts to address Nigeria’s long-standing housing deficit and improve access to housing, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory and other regions.

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