About 430 staff members of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) are set to benefit from a housing initiative under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Housing Programme.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja during the presentation of houses to the beneficiaries.

Darma said the initiative formed part of efforts to make home ownership more affordable for Nigerian workers and reduce the burden of rent on household incomes.

FG Targets 40–60% Rent Burden

The minister said the government was working to ensure workers no longer spend between 40 and 60 per cent of their income on rent.

“We are going to assure that in this country workers don’t spend 40 to 60 per cent of their income on rent,” Darma said.

He said reducing the amount workers spend on accommodation would ease financial pressure and allow families to meet other basic needs.

Darma also linked the high cost of housing to broader economic challenges, saying excessive housing costs could indirectly create incentives for corruption.

FG Targets 250,000 Abandoned Housing Units

The minister said the government was also reviewing abandoned housing projects nationwide as part of efforts to increase the country’s housing stock.

According to him, about 250,000 housing units in abandoned projects could potentially be recovered and made available to Nigerians, including civil servants.

“We are taking stock of them. We are taking statistics. We are moving to each and every state where we have these abandoned properties,” he said.

Darma said the Federal Government was engaging state governors on the possibility of taking over or acquiring some abandoned projects for allocation to civil servants and other Nigerians.

He also identified the rising costs of land, building materials and infrastructure as major challenges facing prospective homeowners.

Social Housing Programme to Cover 774 LGAs

The minister said the government was exploring financing options, including the National Housing Fund and mortgage facilities, particularly for workers in the informal sector.

He added that the planned social housing programme would target communities across the country, including the 774 local government areas.

The initiative is expected to involve partnerships among federal institutions, state governments, mortgage institutions, developers and private investors.

Darma urged government agencies and stakeholders to focus on delivering actual housing projects rather than limiting efforts to policy announcements.

430 NMDPRA Staff to Benefit

Speaking at the ceremony, NMDPRA Chief Executive Mallam Rabiu Abdullahi Umar said the authority was committed to improving staff welfare through initiatives that enhance productivity and wellbeing.

He said access to housing would provide greater security and stability for beneficiaries while strengthening their commitment to their responsibilities.

The NMDPRA chief commended the Federal Government, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and other partners involved in the programme.

The President of the NMDPRA Staff Cooperative Society, Abdullahi Danladi Auta, described the housing allocation as a significant milestone.

Auta said about 430 NMDPRA workers would benefit from the initiative, with projects located in Abuja, Kano and Lagos.

365 Housing Units Earmarked for Abuja

The Chief Commercial Officer of Renewed Hope SPV Limited, Dare Makinde, said the first phase would provide different categories of housing units to NMDPRA staff.

The houses include two-bedroom and three-bedroom flats, as well as three-bedroom terraces with boys’ quarters and other categories across the project locations.

Makinde said 365 housing units were earmarked for Abuja, with additional units to be delivered in Kano and Lagos.

He also disclosed that the second phase of the project would commence in the coming year.

FMBN Managing Director Shehu Usman Osidi congratulated the beneficiaries and commended the partnership between NMDPRA, the Renewed Hope Housing Programme and other stakeholders.

He said the initiative demonstrated how collaboration could expand access to affordable housing and create more opportunities for workers to become homeowners.

The post 430 NMDPRA Workers Get Housing Deal as FG Unveils Renewed Hope Project appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

FMBN Allocates Homes to 430 NMDPRA Workers Across Abuja, Kano, Lagos

The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) has allocated housing units to 430 employees of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme.

Allocation letters were presented to the beneficiaries on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the NMDPRA Auditorium in Abuja. The initiative covers housing units in Abuja, Kano and Lagos and brings together the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, FMBN, Family Homes Funds Limited, the NMDPRA Staff Cooperative Society, CityCode Mortgage Bank, developers and other stakeholders.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Rabe Darma, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to providing decent and affordable housing for Nigerians.

Darma also announced plans to introduce a social housing scheme targeting the delivery of 100 housing units in each Local Government Area across the country.

He stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among government agencies and other stakeholders in the housing sector, noting that such partnerships would allow institutions to combine their resources, expertise and capacities to expand access to affordable housing.

The minister said collaboration remained important to achieving broader housing delivery objectives and ensuring that more Nigerians could benefit from government-backed housing programmes.

FMBN processes ₦8.3bn in mortgage applications

Speaking at the event, FMBN Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Shehu Usman Osidi, described the allocation as an example of how government housing policies could translate into homeownership opportunities for workers.

Osidi disclosed that NMDPRA employees had subscribed to 359 housing units at Karsana in Abuja and 14 units at Janguza in Kano.

He also revealed that 197 National Housing Fund mortgage applications valued at approximately ₦8.3 billion were being packaged for submission to FMBN.

CityCode Mortgage Bank is working with the beneficiaries on the mortgage applications, while FMBN will facilitate financing for applicants who meet the relevant eligibility requirements.

The FMBN chief executive explained that the bank’s involvement in the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme goes beyond individual mortgage financing.

According to him, FMBN also provides project-level financing and off-take support to help create greater certainty for developers and support the construction and eventual purchase of completed housing units.

For the Karsana project, FMBN provided a ₦100 billion off-taker guarantee in addition to ₦19.9 billion in direct funding.

Osidi said the financing and guarantee were designed to support developers, facilitate construction financing and enable eligible Nigerian workers to access completed homes through mortgage arrangements.

“FMBN is proud to be part of the journey that gave birth to this event today, and we remain committed to supporting the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates programme in Karsana and across the country,” Osidi said.

FMBN targets wider housing finance partnerships

Osidi said FMBN would continue working with developers, primary mortgage banks, cooperative societies, employers and other financial-sector partners to expand the supply of affordable housing and improve access to mortgage finance.

He also highlighted the bank’s recently launched Diaspora Mortgage Loan and its forthcoming Rent Assistance Product as part of efforts to respond to changing housing needs among Nigerians.

The FMBN chief urged the beneficiaries to work closely with the NMDPRA Staff Cooperative Society, CityCode Mortgage Bank, FMBN and the developers to complete their mortgage documentation and other requirements promptly.

He assured beneficiaries that the bank remained committed to efficient and transparent processing of their applications.

NMDPRA praises inter-agency collaboration

The Chief Executive of NMDPRA, Rabiu Abdullahi Umar, commended the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, FMBN and the other participating institutions for working together to provide housing opportunities for the authority’s employees.

Umar said the initiative demonstrated the importance of collaboration among government agencies and other stakeholders in addressing workers’ welfare while contributing to wider national development objectives.

He expressed appreciation to the institutions and partners involved in the programme, describing the opportunity for NMDPRA employees to access housing as a significant milestone for the authority and its workers.

The event was attended by the Managing Director of Family Homes Funds Limited, Abdul Mutallab Muktar; the Managing Director of CityCode Mortgage Bank, Oluniyi Abiodun Ajao; the President of the Authority Staff Cooperative Society, Abdullahi Danladi Auta; the Chief Commercial Officer of Renewed Hope SPV Ltd., Dare Makinde; and other stakeholders.

The housing allocations form part of the Federal Government’s wider Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, which combines housing construction, mortgage financing and institutional partnerships to expand access to homeownership for Nigerian workers.

The post NMDPRA Workers Access 430 Housing Units Through FMBN-Backed Scheme appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

… YPP presidential candidate proposes ward-based development centres, 200 housing units per ward, direct-labour construction and technology-driven settlements to tackle Nigeria’s housing and economic challenges.

By: Prince Folorunsho Adegoke, Housing TV Africa

Arc. Dr. Peter Agada, a prominent Nigerian architect, acoustic engineering specialist and presidential candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) ahead of the 2027 general elections, has unveiled an ambitious development blueprint centred on decentralised economic activity, affordable housing, direct-labour construction and a leaner cost of governance.

Agada said his vision is to transform Nigeria into a “project site” by taking government intervention directly to communities and linking housing delivery with employment, agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises, energy, healthcare and infrastructure.

He revealed this during an interview with the Housing Development Programme on News Central TV and Housing TV Africa, where he outlined his proposals for addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit, unemployment, cost-of-living pressures, rural-urban migration and what he described as the disconnect between macroeconomic indicators and the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.

According to Agada, his approach is built around what he calls “LabourDirect”, a model that seeks to reduce construction and project-delivery costs by changing the way government contracts and development projects are executed.

8,809 wards as centres of development

At the heart of Agada’s proposed economic and housing strategy is a ward-by-ward development model.

He said his team has been developing a plan based on the comparative advantages of Nigeria’s wards, with each ward expected to have a development master plan based on its agricultural, mineral, industrial or other economic potential.

Under the proposal, 50 hectares of land would be identified, digitised, titled and developed in each of Nigeria’s 8,809 wards.

Agada said the land would accommodate SME clusters, processing facilities, agricultural activities, housing, schools, healthcare facilities and other supporting infrastructure.

He described the proposed development centres as technology parks or clusters designed to create local economic activity rather than concentrating opportunities in major cities.

For example, he said a ward known for tomatoes and onions could have its development structured around food production and processing, while another area with deposits or skills suited to ceramics could be developed around that comparative advantage.

200 housing units in every ward

Housing is a central component of the proposed ward development model.

Agada said each 50-hectare development would include about 200 housing units for people working in the agricultural and SME clusters.

He argued that housing should not be treated separately from employment and economic development.

According to him, workers should be able to live close to their places of employment, reducing transportation costs while giving families access to basic services.

“By putting 200 units of houses there, we’ve solved housing problem,”

Agada said, arguing that decent housing combined with employment, electricity, healthcare and schools would create viable communities outside major urban centres.

He said the proposal would also include approximately one megawatt of solar power for each ward-based development, with solar panels incorporated into roofing systems.

The proposed settlements, he said, would include schools, hospitals and other community infrastructure, creating what he described as self-sustaining communities.

Housing affordability through new construction technologies

The YPP candidate also proposed the wider adoption of alternative construction methods and materials as part of his strategy to reduce the cost of housing.

Drawing from his experience as an architect and developer, Agada said conventional construction methods can make housing unnecessarily expensive because of the cost of materials and skilled artisans.

He cited soil stabilisation, alternative wall panels and container-based construction among the approaches that could be explored to reduce costs while maintaining acceptable standards.

He also described how he personally reduced construction costs when he built a two-bedroom house for his family earlier in his career, saying he used cost-saving construction techniques, moulded blocks on site and modified elements of the building design.

Agada argued that affordability should not automatically mean poor-quality housing.

Instead, he said architects and developers should take advantage of new technologies and locally appropriate construction methods to produce attractive, functional and affordable homes.

A different approach to mass housing

Agada also criticised what he described as the conventional approach to mass housing, where identical buildings are repeatedly constructed across large tracts of land.

He advocated for greater architectural variety and the use of existing landscapes in housing development.

He cited examples from countries such as South Africa and Kenya, arguing that affordable housing could incorporate different building forms, landscaping, solar energy and locally appropriate designs.

As an architect, Agada said he would personally be involved in the design and development of the proposed housing communities.

Jobs tied directly to housing and local production

Beyond the houses themselves, Agada said the ward development strategy is intended to create jobs at the grassroots.

He estimated that each development centre could create approximately 350 direct jobs in its initial phase, with additional employment generated through transportation, logistics, security, agriculture, healthcare, engineering, construction and SME activities.

He said the strategy is intended to reverse rural-urban migration by creating economic opportunities closer to where Nigerians live.

His stated objective is to encourage people who have migrated to cities because of the lack of jobs to return to their local government areas and wards where they can find employment and housing.

He also linked the strategy to reversing the migration of Nigerians abroad, using the phrase “Japa to Japada” to describe his proposed shift from outward migration to return and local economic opportunity.

Minimum wage and purchasing power

On affordability, Agada said his administration would seek to raise the minimum wage to between N120,000 and N150,000 or more, depending on the savings he says could be achieved through a leaner government and changes to public procurement.

He argued that the existing income levels of many Nigerian workers are incompatible with the current prices of food, transportation, fuel and other basic necessities.

His broader argument is that housing affordability cannot be solved solely by building cheaper houses.

According to him, Nigerians must also have sufficient incomes and employment opportunities to afford housing and sustain their households.

LabourDirect and the cost of construction

A major component of Agada’s proposal is his plan to reduce the cost of government projects through what he calls direct labour.

He argued that conventional contracting can significantly inflate project costs through layers of contracting and procurement.

Under his proposed model, government would provide the project design and bill of quantities while communities and other stakeholders could participate more directly in sourcing materials and supplying labour, with professionals retained for supervision.

He claimed that this model could substantially reduce construction costs and cited projects he said his company had executed as examples of what could be achieved.

Agada said his approach would also create opportunities for local workers, particularly young people, to participate in major infrastructure and construction projects.

A proposed Labour Direct Commission

To institutionalise the model, Agada proposed establishing a Nigerian Labour Direct Commission or Institute to oversee savings generated from his proposed procurement and governance reforms.

He said the proposed structure would operate through a system that includes national oversight while giving communities a direct role in determining their development priorities.

At the ward level, he proposed a 13-member committee comprising representatives of youths, women, traditional or community leadership and political interests.

The committee, according to him, would identify and prioritise the most pressing needs of the community.

Examples could include repairing a transformer, rehabilitating a school roof, fixing a road or restoring a failed water facility.

The identified priorities would then be submitted to the proposed Labour Direct Commission for implementation.

Cutting the cost of governance

Agada also placed significant emphasis on reducing government expenditure.

He said a YPP administration under his leadership would operate what he described as a “lean government”, arguing that savings from governance and public procurement could be redirected towards development.

He said he would not live in the presidential villa because of its perceived maintenance costs and would reduce spending on official convoys, aircraft and other government expenses.

He also proposed reviewing ministries and agencies with overlapping responsibilities as part of an effort to reduce the cost of administration.

Moving development beyond Abuja and other major cities

One of the central objectives of Agada’s housing strategy is to reduce pressure on major urban centres.

He argued that cities such as Abuja are becoming increasingly expensive because too many Nigerians are forced to compete for limited housing and employment opportunities.

His proposal is therefore to create functioning economic and residential centres in communities across the country.

Agada said that if people can find jobs, housing, electricity, schools and healthcare in their local communities, fewer Nigerians would need to relocate to Abuja and other major cities.

He argued that this could eventually reduce pressure on urban housing markets and contribute to lower rents.

Why the real estate boom has not translated into affordable housing

Addressing the apparent contradiction between Nigeria’s growing real estate sector and the difficulty many Nigerians face in finding affordable housing, Agada said the problem lies partly in what he described as a weak microeconomy.

He argued that large-scale real estate developments and high-value properties do not necessarily translate into housing access for ordinary Nigerians.

According to him, expensive developments in areas such as Lagos and Abuja may demonstrate activity in the real estate market, but the critical question is how many ordinary Nigerians can actually afford the properties.

His solution is to connect real estate development directly with employment and grassroots economic activity.

He said the proposed 50-hectare ward developments would be designed specifically around the people expected to live and work there, rather than simply producing high-value properties for investors.

Accountability: 800 houses per ward in four years

Asked how Nigerians could assess his performance after four years in office, Agada offered specific physical development targets.

He said that, based on his proposed model, each ward would have 200 housing units in the first phase.

Over four years, he said that would amount to 800 housing units per ward, alongside the expansion of economic and industrial activities.

He also projected that approximately 1,400 people could be moved back to each ward over the four-year period based on the employment figures he outlined.

He said visible development in the form of electricity, industrial clusters, agro-processing and other economic activities should provide Nigerians with tangible indicators against which to assess his administration.

Turning Nigeria into a project site

At the centre of Agada’s political and development philosophy is his call to move from what he sees as a system dominated by policy discussions and financial allocations to one focused on physical implementation.

“We’re turning Nigeria into a project site,” he said during the interview, describing himself as a project-oriented architect who wants to take resources directly to communities and development sites.

For Agada, housing is therefore not an isolated sector.

His proposed housing strategy is tied to employment, food production, energy, transportation, infrastructure, security, technology and local economic development.

Whether the proposals can be financed, legislated and implemented at the scale outlined would ultimately depend on the institutional, fiscal and political framework of any future administration.

For now, the YPP presidential candidate has placed housing and grassroots development at the centre of his campaign message, presenting his proposed 8,809-ward development model as the foundation for what he describes as a more decentralised Nigerian economy.

His challenge to voters, as stated during the interview, is to measure the performance of any future administration not merely by economic statistics but by what Nigerians can physically see in their communities; homes, jobs, electricity, roads, schools, healthcare facilities and functioning local economies.

The post Agada Unveils 2027 Blueprint: 8,809 Ward Housing Clusters, Jobs and Lean Government appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Kebbi State Government says the construction of 250 housing units under the Kauran Gwandu Housing Project has reached 80 per cent completion.

Governor Nasir Idris disclosed this on Tuesday while inspecting the project site on the outskirts of Birnin Kebbi.

The governor expressed satisfaction with the progress of work and commended the contractor for adhering to the approved specifications.

Idris, however, warned contractors handling government projects across the state against compromising standards.

“I am happy about the performance of the contractor, but let me sound a word of warning that Kebbi State Government will not condone shoddy job from any contractor engaged in project execution.”

Kebbi targets timely completion

The governor expressed confidence that the 250 housing units would be completed within the stipulated timeframe, paving the way for their allocation to prospective occupants.

He said the project was part of his administration’s efforts to provide decent and affordable accommodation for residents of the state.

Kebbi buys Federal Government housing units

Idris also disclosed that his administration had purchased the Federal Government’s housing units in Birnin Kebbi.

According to him, payment for the estate had been completed and the necessary documents acquired by the state government.

He said the government would soon award a contract for the completion of the estate.

“Very soon, the state government will award the contract for completion of the estate in furtherance of action by my administration to provide requisite and decent accommodation to our people.”

The governor urged contractors working on government projects to maintain quality standards and ensure timely delivery.

The post Kebbi Housing Project Hits 80% Completion, 250 Units Near Delivery appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Two residents escaped serious danger on Friday after part of a one-storey residential building collapsed in Kubwa 2/2, near Yellow Page, Abuja.

The victims were inside the ground floor when the right section of the building suddenly gave way at about 11:30am. Rescue teams pulled both residents from the rubble alive and took them to Kubwa General Hospital for treatment.

The Head of Media and Public Relations at the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), Nkechi Isa, confirmed the incident in a statement.

Rescue Operation

FEMD received a distress call about eight minutes after the collapse, at 11:38am. The agency then mobilised its response team to the affected property.

Rescuers reached the scene and worked to free the two trapped residents. Both victims survived the incident and remain in stable condition at the hospital.

No death has been reported in connection with the collapse.

The affected property contains six blocks of flats. However, most of the other occupants were away when the incident occurred. Their absence helped reduce the number of people exposed to the collapse.

Despite the successful rescue, the incident caused major damage to personal belongings and household items belonging to residents.

Authorities Begin Investigation

The Department of Development Control also responded to the scene alongside the FCT Police Command.

The agencies moved to secure the area and begin inquiries into what caused the structural failure. Authorities have not yet released a cause for the collapse.

The investigation will be important in determining whether issues linked to construction, structural integrity or compliance with approved building requirements played any role.

Building Safety and Housing in Abuja

The Kubwa incident again draws attention to the importance of building safety in Abuja’s growing residential communities.

Nigeria continues to face strong demand for housing. As developers respond to that demand, construction quality and regulatory compliance remain important parts of safe housing delivery.

Building approvals, proper structural design and effective site supervision can help reduce risks during construction and occupancy. Development control agencies also play an important role in ensuring that projects follow approved plans and relevant building requirements.

Building failures can have consequences beyond physical damage. Residents may lose household possessions, face temporary displacement and incur unexpected costs after a collapse.

For property owners and developers, the incident also highlights the need to treat structural safety as a core part of housing development. Affordable housing should not come at the expense of safety or compliance with construction standards.

Wider Housing Implications

The collapse in Kubwa highlights a wider challenge for Nigeria’s housing sector. The country needs more homes, but it also needs homes that can provide safe and secure living conditions.

Authorities, developers and other construction professionals all have roles to play in maintaining building standards. Stronger monitoring and timely intervention can help identify potential risks before they become emergencies.

For now, the two rescued residents remain under medical care at Kubwa General Hospital. Meanwhile, the relevant FCT authorities will continue to secure the site and investigate the circumstances surrounding the collapse.

The post Two Rescued After One-Storey Building Collapses in Kubwa, Abuja appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Residents of Ikangba, Agoro, Imodi and Imosan communities in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State have renewed their protest over alleged land grabbing.

The residents marched through their communities on Friday. It was their second protest in less than a month.

They carried placards and called for urgent action from the Ogun State Government and security agencies. Some of the placards urged Governor Dapo Abiodun and President Bola Tinubu to protect their ancestral lands.

The residents accused alleged land grabbers of bringing bulldozers into the communities. They said the machines destroyed buildings, farmlands and other properties.

They also accused the alleged land grabbers of intimidating residents who challenged their activities.

The communities further claimed that some of the individuals operated with security escorts. They called on the authorities to investigate the allegation.

Communities Reject Link to Traditional Ruler

The dispute has also sparked controversy over the role of the Dagburewe of Idowa, Oba Sikiru Okuribido.

The communities rejected reports linking the traditional ruler to the alleged land-grabbing activities. They described the reports as false.

According to the residents, Oba Okuribido comes from one of the affected communities. They said he had supported their efforts to resist the alleged land grabbers.

The communities also questioned the identities of people who claimed to represent Ikangba in a recent online publication. They said the individuals were not recognised as established indigenes or long-term residents.

Residents Seek Investigation

The residents said the dispute had continued despite an earlier intervention by the Ogun State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Oluwasina Ogungbade, SAN.

They want the government to carry out an impartial investigation. They also want officials to establish the ownership history and legal status of the disputed land.

The communities called on the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and Ogun State Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force to investigate all parties.

They want authorities to examine land documents, court judgments, boundaries and other evidence connected to the dispute.

Professor Ayodeji Gafar spoke at a press briefing after Friday’s protest. He said the communities considered the report linking Oba Okuribido to the dispute unfair.

Gafar said the communities wanted transparency over the ownership claims. He also said the dispute should not lead to confrontation.

Bulldozers Allegedly Return Despite Police Directive

Gafar said the communities returned to the streets because alleged land-grabbing activities continued.

He said Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni had directed both sides to maintain the status quo. The directive was to remain in place while authorities worked to resolve the dispute.

However, Gafar said residents later reported the return of bulldozers to disputed areas.

He alleged that the machines continued to clear farmlands and destroy structures.

The communities also raised concerns about unidentified people and unmarked security vehicles in the area.

They further alleged that some individuals carried guns, cutlasses and other weapons. Gafar called for an investigation to establish whether the allegations were true.

Leaders Appeal for Government Intervention

The Baale of Ikangba, Chief Joseph Adebanjo, also condemned the alleged activities.

Chief Adeniyi Oduneye, the Alase Yemule of Ikangba, joined the call for government action.

Alhaji Surajudeen Raji represented the Baale of Agoro. Chief Olusesi Isiaka represented the Baale of Imodi.

The community leaders appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun, President Bola Tinubu, the police and DSS to investigate the dispute.

They warned that continued tension could threaten peace in the affected communities.

Land Disputes Raise Housing Concerns

The dispute also highlights the importance of secure land ownership in Nigeria’s property market.

Clear land records help residents, developers and investors establish ownership before they build or invest. Disputes over ownership can delay housing projects and create risks for property owners.

Unclear boundaries can also affect construction and infrastructure development. For this reason, land administration remains an important part of Nigeria’s housing and real estate sector.

The affected communities are now asking the government to establish the legitimate ownership claims and protect peace in Ikangba, Agoro, Imodi and Imosan.

The post Ogun Communities Protest Alleged Land Grabbers’ Invasion of Ancestral Land appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of about 30 buildings blocking the Right of Way of Abuja’s Ring Road 3.

Wike gave the order on Thursday during an inspection of road projects linking Karsana District, Gwarinpa and the Kubwa axis.

The affected buildings sit within the corridor reserved for Ring Road 3 and its planned interchange. The area forms part of the infrastructure network covered by the Abuja Master Plan.

Wike Orders Immediate Action

The Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, drew Wike’s attention to the structures during the inspection.

Dauda told the minister that the buildings occupy land reserved for the Ring Road 3 project. Wike then called officials of the Department of Development Control to the site.

The minister ordered the officials to remove the structures without delay. He also questioned how developers had managed to build within a major road and interchange corridor.

Wike said the government could not allow private buildings to obstruct important public infrastructure.

Ring Road 3 Project Links Major Areas

The Ring Road 3 project forms part of Abuja’s wider road network. The route will connect Karsana District with the Kubwa Road corridor, also known as the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX).

According to Dauda, the road will also extend towards Airport Road. A planned flyover will connect with the Ring Road 3 alignment as part of the project.

Dauda said construction of the second bridge on the corridor has also moved forward. He noted that workers had started the foundation despite the rocky terrain at the site.

The project team expects bridge construction to continue while work progresses on the wider road corridor.

Development Control Concerns

The discovery of buildings along the road corridor has raised fresh concerns about development control in the Federal Capital Territory.

Abuja relies on planned land use to protect space for roads, public facilities and other infrastructure. When private developments enter these areas, they can create problems for transport projects and urban planning.

The situation also carries risks for property buyers and developers. Investors who purchase or develop land without checking approved land use may face disputes, demolition or financial losses.

For this reason, property developers need to confirm land titles, planning approvals and Right of Way restrictions before starting construction.

Protecting the Abuja Master Plan

The FCT Administration has continued to stress the importance of enforcing the Abuja Master Plan. The plan provides a framework for land use and infrastructure development across the capital.

Wike’s directive shows that the administration intends to prevent buildings from blocking planned road projects. It also places renewed attention on the role of development control officials in monitoring construction.

The immediate removal of the affected buildings will clear the Ring Road 3 corridor for ongoing construction and interchange works.

The development highlights a wider issue facing fast-growing cities: the need to balance private property development with long-term infrastructure planning. Stronger land checks and effective development control can help reduce conflicts between property owners and major public projects.

The post Wike Orders Demolition of 30 Buildings Blocking Abuja Ring Road 3 appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) to strengthen enforcement against fraudulent estate agents. The anti-graft agency also advised the regulator to create a denylist for individuals and companies found guilty of real estate fraud.

The recommendation came during a meeting between the Acting Zonal Director of EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate II, ACE I Bawa Usman Kaltungo, and the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Engineer Abdulhafis Gbolahan Toriola. Senior officials from LASRERA also attended the meeting.

Kaltungo said stronger regulation would help protect homebuyers, investors and property developers. He also called for regular information sharing between both agencies to improve investigations and enforcement.

EFCC Offers Investigative Support

The EFCC said it will continue to support LASRERA with investigations into fraudulent property transactions. Kaltungo explained that closer cooperation would help identify offenders faster and ensure they face prosecution under the law.

He also praised LASRERA for implementing the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority Law 2022. According to him, the law has created a stronger foundation for regulating the real estate industry in Lagos.

The commission disclosed that it is handling several cases involving alleged fake estate agents and property-related fraud. These cases involve individuals and organisations accused of misleading members of the public through illegal real estate transactions.

Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency

Engineer Abdulhafis Gbolahan Toriola said the Lagos State Government remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability and professionalism in the property market.

He noted that stronger collaboration with the EFCC would improve compliance with existing regulations. He added that the partnership would also increase public confidence in buying, selling and investing in property across the state.

Both organisations agreed to deepen their cooperation as part of efforts to reduce criminal activities within the real estate sector.

Why Stronger Regulation Matters

Property fraud remains a major challenge in Nigeria’s housing sector. Many buyers lose money through fake land sales, forged documents, multiple sales of the same property and unregistered estate operators.

These practices weaken investor confidence and slow the growth of the housing market. They also create risks for mortgage lenders, developers and genuine estate professionals.

Industry experts have consistently argued that stronger regulation can improve transparency and attract more investment into Nigeria’s real estate sector. Better enforcement can also encourage responsible housing development and strengthen consumer protection.

As Lagos continues to expand, effective regulation will play an important role in creating a safer property market. Closer cooperation between regulators and law enforcement agencies could help reduce fraud and improve confidence in real estate transactions across the state.

The post EFCC Urges LASRERA to Tighten Oversight, Denylist Fraudulent Estate Agents appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

DARS Group, Partners Unveil Elite City Abuja, Redefining Smart Living with Tech, Wellness and Affordable Housing

By: Folorunsho Adegoke, Housing TV Africa

In a bold move that signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s real estate landscape, DARS Group of Companies, in partnership with leading property developers, has officially unveiled Elite City Abuja, a premium smart city project designed to integrate technology, wellness, sustainability and affordability into modern urban living.

Strategically located in Ketti, Abuja, near the City Walk landmark, the ambitious development was launched before an audience of real estate investors, developers, financial institutions, government representatives and prospective homeowners, all eager to witness what stakeholders described as one of the Federal Capital Territory’s most innovative residential projects.

Speaking during the unveiling, Chairman of DARS Group, Chief Dr. Ronald Ogochukwu Ezaka, said the vision behind Elite City Abuja was inspired by his extensive international travels and exposure to technologically advanced residential communities across the world.

According to him, the company decided it was time to replicate such world-class living standards in Nigeria by creating a city where innovation, wellness and technology converge to improve residents’ quality of life.

“It’s a smart city, it’s a wellness city and a tech hub,” Ezaka said, noting that Elite City represents the first of several similar developments the company intends to build across the country. “We have seen what is possible in other parts of the world, and we believe Nigerians deserve the same standard of living.”

Managing Director of Standard Rank Properties Limited, a subsidiary of DARS Group, Prince Emmanuel Chukwudi Nwafor, described Elite City as one of the company’s largest ongoing developments, emphasizing that although it bears the name “Elite City,” the project is designed to be inclusive.

He explained that the development offers a wide range of housing options, including two-bedroom, three-bedroom and four-bedroom terrace duplexes, as well as mansions and mansionettes, ensuring accommodation for different income categories.

To further promote accessibility, Nwafor disclosed that prospective subscribers can acquire plots within the estate from as low as ₦3.6 million, reinforcing the company’s commitment to making quality housing available to more Nigerians.

The development is already witnessing significant infrastructure work as Project Surveyor, Johnson Oche, disclosed that comprehensive site surveys had been completed across the entire 57-hectare first phase, with engineering considerations carefully incorporated to prevent erosion and ensure proper drainage.

He revealed that construction of the estate’s perimeter fencing and security gatehouses is already underway, adding that the layout has received approval from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and will feature two major access roads for improved accessibility.

One of the project’s strategic development partners, PeakNova Limited, has also committed substantial investment to the city. Its Managing Director, Victor Egede, announced that the company had acquired 15 hectares within Elite City and intends to develop an eco-friendly residential community capable of accommodating about 250 residents.

Beyond smart infrastructure, he said residents should expect premium lifestyle facilities including a swimming pool, lawn tennis courts, resort facilities and other high-quality social amenities.

“We don’t just make promises; we build,” he said, pointing to the company’s existing developments as evidence of its delivery capacity.

Similarly, CEO of Great Home Properties Limited highlighted the investment opportunities embedded in the project, noting that buyers can either build homes or acquire land for future capital appreciation.

He also disclosed that residents would enjoy recreational facilities including football and tennis courts, among other lifestyle amenities.

The host community has also welcomed the project as District Head of Ketti Community, Chief Alex Akata, expressed optimism that the development would stimulate employment opportunities, improve social infrastructure and strengthen collaboration between developers and the local community.

He described the investment as a catalyst for economic growth and youth empowerment within the district.

For the Group Managing Director of DARS Group, Stephen Augustine Egbe, Elite City represents the future of urban living. He explained that the project combines affordability with comfort while integrating smart technologies that position the development ahead of conventional residential estates.

According to him, innovation will remain central to future phases of the project as the company continues to embrace emerging technologies and evolving housing trends.

Industry stakeholders also praised the collaborative development model adopted for the project. Managing Director of Squarehead Consult Limited, Jude Ashang, observed that partnerships among developers help reduce infrastructure costs while improving project quality. He argued that shared investment in infrastructure ultimately contributes to lowering housing costs and delivering better value for homeowners.

“This is one of the ways to reduce the cost of real estate because several companies working together can share infrastructure costs and achieve greater efficiency,” he said.

Another development partner, Managing Director of Forth Urban Limited, Barr. Eze Victor Kelechi, described Elite City as Nigeria’s first integrated premium tech and wellness city, stressing that one of its defining features is inclusiveness.

He disclosed that the flexible payment structure introduced for the project was influenced by discussions at the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), with deliberate provisions made to enable low-income earners to participate.

According to him, “low-income earners also deserve to live like elites,” underscoring the project’s commitment to expanding access to quality housing.

From a youth perspective, Managing Director of Vestage Limited, Nelson Okezie, said technology is increasingly shaping modern lifestyles, making smart cities inevitable. He noted that Elite City Abuja has the potential to become a model for future developments in the Federal Capital Territory by providing residents with technology-driven services that simplify daily living while creating more time for work, family and recreation.

Developers say the development is being conceived as more than a conventional housing estate. Plans include reliable electricity infrastructure capable of supporting both residential and commercial activities, sustainable water supply systems, a modern security architecture, recreational parks and green spaces that promote healthy living, all consistent with the city’s branding as a Premium Tech and Wellness City.

According to DARS Group, the development has been carefully planned to combine modern infrastructure, security, accessibility and sustainable urban planning while creating long-term investment opportunities for homeowners and investors alike.

As demand continues to rise for well-planned communities within the Federal Capital Territory, the developers believe Elite City Abuja is strategically positioned to become a benchmark for the next generation of smart, sustainable and inclusive residential developments in Nigeria.

The post DARS Group Unveils Elite City Abuja, Smart Tech and Wellness City with Affordable Housing appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving access to land as part of efforts to make homeownership more attainable for low-income Nigerians.

To advance this goal, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will lead high-level discussions on land administration and reforms during the 20th Africa International Housing Show (AIHS 2026 – Legacy Edition).

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Babatunde Haiba.

According to the statement, the Land Administration Session, scheduled to hold from July 13 to 18, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, forms part of the government’s broader strategy to improve land accessibility for affordable and low-cost housing, particularly for low-income earners and workers in the informal sector.

The event will bring together key stakeholders, including state commissioners for lands, directors of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), surveyors-general, directors of lands, policymakers, investors, development partners and other professionals in the housing sector.

The ministry said participants would explore practical solutions to improve land administration and accelerate housing delivery across Nigeria and Africa.

With the theme, “Housing Solutions for Low-Income and Informal Workers in Africa,” the conference will focus on strengthening land governance, streamlining land administration processes and leveraging technology to create transparent, efficient and investment-friendly systems.

Discussions will cover land digitisation, automation, property registration reforms, land titling, GIS, geospatial technologies, cadastral management and strategies to expand land access for affordable housing projects.

The ministry added that the session would also promote stronger collaboration between state governments, housing finance institutions, development finance organisations, private investors and international development partners.

States participating in the event are expected to showcase ongoing land reform initiatives, exchange best practices and engage technical and financial partners to develop viable housing projects.

The ministry maintained that efficient and transparent land administration remains critical to achieving affordable housing targets and promoting inclusive urban development nationwide.

Chief Executive Officer of the Africa International Housing Show, Festus Adebayo, said the session would strengthen collaboration between the ministry and industry stakeholders to advance land reforms and boost housing development across the country.

The post FG to Lead Land Reform Talks at AIHS 2026 to Boost Affordable Housing appeared first on Housing TV Africa.