housing estate - Housing TV Africa

Festac Residents Protest Alleged Sale of Sewage Plants, Parks, Other Public Assets

housingtv — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 09:24:49 +0000

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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Communities Protest Alleged School Land Conversion in Enugu

housingtv — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:41:20 +0000

Tension is rising in Enugu State as host communities protest an alleged plan by the state government to convert part of a school land into a commercial housing estate.

Residents of Amauzam-Ugbawka and Agbani communities in Nkanu East Local Government Area staged a protest over reports that undeveloped portions of the Girls Special Science School, Agbani, have been earmarked for a housing project.

The protesters described the move as “land grabbing,” insisting that the land was originally acquired for educational purposes and should not be repurposed without due consultation.

Carrying placards, the demonstrators said the development would further dispossess them of ancestral land, more than two decades after the school was established without clearly defined boundaries.

They called on Governor Peter Mbah to intervene by halting the proposed housing project and ensuring proper demarcation of the school’s land.

According to the communities, the disputed land spans Ugbawka Amauzam and Agbani and was acquired during the administration of former governor Chimaroke Nnamani without adequate consultation or clear boundary definition.

The protesters said repeated efforts to resolve the issue had yielded no results. They recalled writing to the administration of former governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in 2016, requesting a formal survey and clarification of the school’s boundaries.

They also noted that a similar appeal was made to the current administration in 2024, seeking either the return of unused land or compensation for affected families.

Although security personnel prevented the protesters from gaining access to the Government House, a petition outlining their grievances was submitted.

In the petition, community leaders expressed frustration over what they described as a breach of trust, alleging that earlier discussions around resizing the school land had now been replaced with plans for commercial development.

They urged the government to respect the provisions of the Land Use Act by engaging host communities, returning unutilised land, and compensating those whose lands had already been taken.

The controversy highlights growing concerns over land administration and urban development in Enugu, particularly as housing expansion increasingly intersects with community land rights.

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Family Homes Funds Delivers New Housing to Kaduna Widows

housingtv — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 17:20:32 +0000

Widows in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, are expressing renewed hope following their resettlement in a free housing estate provided under the Family Homes Funds scheme.

The housing project, developed in collaboration with the Adashe Women Housing and Empowerment Society, is designed to provide safe and dignified accommodation for vulnerable women, particularly widows.

Although 100 housing units were allocated to beneficiaries late last year, initial occupancy remained low due to security concerns and infrastructure challenges, according to the facility manager, Dr Mustapha Umar Kumshe.

He explained that many of the beneficiaries were initially reluctant to move into the estate due to fears over safety and poor access roads.

“After the commissioning, there were gaps and glitches. Many beneficiaries were afraid to relocate due to perceived insecurity,” he said.

However, the situation has improved significantly following enhanced security arrangements, direct engagement with residents, and targeted interventions to address early concerns.

Kumshe disclosed that more than 65 of the housing units are now occupied, with the estate fully equipped with water supply, electricity, solar-powered lighting, and internet services.

The estate was officially inaugurated in the presence of Uba Sani, alongside other government officials and stakeholders, during which beneficiaries received keys to their new homes.

Despite the formal handover, uptake remained slow in the early months, largely due to misinformation and fear among intended occupants.

Management later intensified community engagement efforts and strengthened security within the estate, resulting in increased confidence and rising occupancy levels.

Beneficiaries who spoke with journalists described the initiative as life-changing, expressing gratitude to the government and partner organisations.

One of the residents, Fadila Tahir, said access to stable housing has transformed her life, revealing that she has since remarried after overcoming the challenge of accommodation.

Another beneficiary, Amina Alhassan, said the new home has significantly improved her family’s living conditions, noting that she now enjoys basic amenities previously unavailable to her.

The project is part of broader efforts to address housing deficits among vulnerable populations and improve social welfare outcomes in Kaduna State.

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Kwara Takes Over 132-Unit Federal Housing Estate to Tackle Housing Deficit

housingtv — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:02:15 +0000

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.

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Ebonyi Acting Governor Orders Arrest of Contractors Over Substandard Housing Project

housingtv — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 06:46:48 +0000

The Acting Governor of Ebonyi State, Princess Patricia Obila, has ordered the arrest of contractors responsible for the construction of the Amaeze/Izzo Housing Estate, citing poor workmanship and the use of substandard materials.

During an unscheduled inspection of the site, Obila expressed outrage over the state of the buildings, many of which have begun to show structural defects despite not yet being occupied. She criticized the contractors for what she described as a gross betrayal of public trust and a clear sabotage of government development efforts.

Obila, visibly disturbed by the conditions she encountered, said the project was scheduled to have been completed and commissioned this month. Instead, the site remains unfinished, and some of the buildings are already deteriorating. She warned that the state government would no longer tolerate contractors who compromise safety and quality for profit. According to her, anyone found culpable would not only be arrested but also held accountable for endangering the lives of future residents.

Her visit to the Amaeze/Izzo Housing Estate was part of a broader inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects across Ishielu, Ohaukwu, and Abakaliki local government areas. These included road construction, classroom blocks, and industrial developments in several communities. While some projects received commendation for their progress and quality, others were flagged for delays and substandard execution.

Obila called on contractors with pending deliverables to accelerate their work, stressing the administration’s commitment to delivering results under Governor Francis Nwifuru’s People’s Charter of Needs, which prioritizes infrastructure, education, and economic development.

She also expressed gratitude to community stakeholders for their continued support of the current administration, assuring them that despite challenges, the government remained focused on completing key projects across the state.

Meanwhile, former Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Hon. Augustine Nwankwagu, added his voice to the matter, urging the state government to go beyond contract termination. He called for the prosecution of contractors found to have compromised quality, arguing that only firm legal consequences would deter future misconduct in the execution of public projects.

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Court Orders Interim Forfeiture of Land Allocated for Goodluck Jonathan Estate

housingtv — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:14:08 +0000

The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved the temporary seizure of land linked to the Goodluck Jonathan Housing Estate. This follows a request by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The land was originally allocated for a low-income housing project in 2012.

The focus of the case is on two large plots in Cadastral Zone D12, Kaba District, Abuja. Together, the plots measure nearly 280,000 square meters and are valued at over ₦5 billion. They were meant for the construction of 962 housing units under the Goodluck Jonathan Legacy Model Housing Estate.

The ICPC told the court that the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) engaged Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited as the developer. The bank secured a $65 million loan for the project from Ecobank. However, more than a decade later, not a single house has been built.

In an affidavit, ICPC investigator Iliya Marcus said the developer received the full amount. Yet, the site remains empty. He also revealed that the company was not registered with the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), which is a required step for such projects.

The ICPC believes the land may be the proceeds of unlawful activity. The agency said it had credible information that the developer was secretly trying to sell the land. If sold, it would be hard to reclaim. This is why the commission asked the court to intervene.

Justice Mohammed Umar agreed with the request. He granted the interim forfeiture to prevent the plots from being sold or misused. He also questioned why the full project funds were released when no work had started.

The court instructed ICPC to publish a notice in a national newspaper. This gives interested parties a chance to explain why the land should not be permanently seized by the government.

The case has been adjourned until October 27 for a compliance report. Meanwhile, Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited is already on trial in a separate case.

The Goodluck Jonathan Housing Estate land forfeiture shows the government’s effort to protect public property. It also highlights the need for better oversight of national housing projects. This case may serve as a turning point in how such projects are funded and managed in the future.

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Anambra Housing Agency Targets Revenue Defaulters, Inaugurates Onitsha Estate Executives

housingtv — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:33:47 +0000

The Anambra State Housing Development Corporation (ASHDC) has announced plans to begin a comprehensive revenue recovery drive across housing estates in the state, targeting landlords who have defaulted on property rate payments.

This was revealed by the Managing Director of ASHDC, Chief Chike Anyaonu, during the inauguration of the newly elected executive of the Onitsha Bridgehead Housing Estate, led by Chairman Chief Obiorah Chukwuemeka Egbuna.

Speaking at the event in Onitsha South Local Government Area, Anyaonu stated that the move became necessary due to the significant revenue shortfall resulting from non-payment of property rates by residents across multiple housing estates. He emphasized that residents cannot expect infrastructural development while failing to fulfill their financial obligations to the state.

“If payments are not made within the next one month, the corporation will have no choice but to begin enforcement actions,” Anyaonu warned.

He urged the new estate leadership to collaborate with the state government in revenue collection and praised their victory as a vote of confidence from the residents. Anyaonu also called on them to mobilize support for Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s second term to ensure continued infrastructural improvements in the area.

In his acceptance speech, Chairman Egbuna extended an olive branch to his opponents and stressed unity as a foundation for development. He revealed that reconciliation efforts had already begun, and several inherited disputes from the previous administration were being resolved amicably.

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Emma Ekelobe, President of the Onitsha Estate Investment Cooperative (ONEICO), and former candidate Hon. Ikedim Ikegwuonu expressed confidence in Egbuna’s leadership and pledged their full support for the estate’s progress.

The ASHDC’s renewed focus on revenue enforcement is part of a broader effort to revitalize estate infrastructure and enhance service delivery in Anambra State.

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Sanwo-Olu Lights Up Ibeju-Lekki with New Homes and Roads

housingtv — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:48:40 +0000

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu brought renewed energy to Ibeju-Lekki as he commissioned a set of key projects aimed at deepening grassroots development in the area.

The newly unveiled 400-metre Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Road, the launch of a housing estate, the formal opening of a new administrative building named Bola Ahmed Tinubu House, and the handover of a fully completed legislative complex are among the milestones delivered during his visit.

The initiatives, driven by the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government under the leadership of Chairman Abdullahi Olowa, were celebrated as a true testament to collaboration between local authorities and the state.

While addressing a cheering crowd, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the projects reflect his administration’s focus on impactful, inclusive governance that reaches the very core of the communities.

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He praised the commitment of the Ibeju-Lekki leadership and described the projects as living proof that transformational leadership, when backed by cooperation and vision, brings visible results. For him, Ibeju-Lekki has remained an important part of Lagos State’s blueprint for growth, and these achievements confirm that the area is thriving and enjoying the true dividends of democracy.

The governor particularly highlighted the administrative block’s dedication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a meaningful gesture and noted that Tinubu continues to earn recognition even from Abuja. Commending Chairman Olowa’s foresight, Sanwo-Olu also handed over a newly built legislative facility for local lawmakers, describing it as a well-constructed and thoughtfully designed space for effective governance.

He expressed gratitude to the council leadership for their work and urged them to continue building on the momentum, saying the future of Lagos depends on strong, people-driven action from the grassroots upward.

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Dangiwa, EFCC Chairman Inspect Emefiele’s Forfeited Estate, Reaffirms FG’s Housing Commitment

housingtv — Wed, 21 May 2025 15:06:29 +0000

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has officially taken delivery of a 753-unit housing estate formerly owned by embattled ex-Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele. The estate, which was forfeited to the Federal Government following investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.

The handing over ceremony took place on Tuesday and was attended by the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who both visited the estate for an official inspection.

Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. Olukoyede stated that the recovery and forfeiture of the estate underscores the Commission’s resolve to pursue justice and recover proceeds of crime, no matter how high the profile of the individuals involved. He noted that the estate is part of ongoing efforts to trace and retrieve assets linked to alleged corrupt practices by public officials.

Receiving the estate on behalf of the Federal Government, Arc. Dangiwa commended the EFCC for its diligence and commitment. He assured Nigerians that the Ministry will put the estate to good use in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in addressing the nation’s housing deficit.

“This is a significant step toward making housing more accessible to Nigerians. The recovered estate will be evaluated, completed where necessary, and allocated to deserving citizens through transparent and affordable housing schemes,” the minister said.

The estate consists of a mix of housing units, some of which are still under construction. The Ministry says it will carry out a full assessment to determine the level of work required to make the units habitable.

The ceremony was also witnessed by senior officials from the EFCC, the Ministry of Housing, representatives of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), and members of the media.

This development marks a notable win in the government’s anti-corruption drive and its effort to convert forfeited assets into national assets that benefit the Nigerian people.

By Ubong Usoro

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Hoodlums Strike Minna housing estate, destroy properties

housingtv — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:08:43 +0000

Residents of the M.I. Wushishi housing estate in Minna, Niger State, are reeling from an attack by unidentified hoodlums that resulted in extensive property damage.

The assault, which took place in broad daylight while most men were away at work, involved the criminals breaking into multiple homes and destroying six cars.

The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and the number of homes affected has not yet been confirmed. Reports indicate that the attackers targeted the estate during the day when only women and children were present.

This attack follows previous threats from illegal gold miners in the area, who had warned of their return after being asked to leave by residents. Despite several requests for help from the state commissioner of police, residents have reported a lack of effective response.

In light of these events, residents are calling on the Niger State government to address the growing issues and bring attention to the situation at the M.I. Wushishi housing estate. They are urging for immediate intervention to ensure the safety of their community.

State Police Command spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed that authorities have received distress calls about the incident and are investigating the involvement of suspected illegal miners and thugs.

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