Abuja has emerged as the most preferred relocation destination for Nigerians seeking better opportunities and improved family wellbeing, despite growing concerns over high rents, rising living costs and electricity challenges, according to a new report by SBM Intelligence.

The report, titled “Where Nigerian Families Actually Thrive,” evaluated quality-of-life indicators across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and seven states, including Anambra, Bauchi, Cross River, Kano, Lagos, Oyo and Rivers.

The study assessed key factors influencing family wellbeing such as income levels, housing affordability, healthcare, education, safety, infrastructure and social support systems.

Abuja Leads as Nigerians’ Preferred Relocation Destination

According to the report, Abuja recorded 65 mentions from respondents who indicated they would relocate from their current locations if given the opportunity, making it the most desired destination nationwide.

Lagos followed with 42 mentions, while Anambra, Enugu and Uyo received 11, seven and six mentions respectively.

SBM Intelligence noted that the findings reveal a clear pattern, with many Nigerians viewing Abuja as the city that offers the best prospects for their families.

The report attributed Abuja’s appeal largely to its status as Nigeria’s seat of government, its perceived economic opportunities, and its reputation for order, security and stability.

“Abuja is where Nigerians across all regions want to move for their children’s sake,” the report stated.

Abuja’s Reputation Differs From Residents’ Reality

Despite its popularity among prospective movers, Abuja ranked only fourth overall in the report’s composite quality-of-life index.

With a score of 2.97 out of five, the Federal Capital Territory trailed Kano (3.92), Rivers (3.29) and Oyo (3.09).

SBM Intelligence described Abuja as a city whose image often differs from the realities experienced by residents.

“The irony is instructive,” the report noted, highlighting the gap between Abuja’s attractiveness and its actual quality-of-life performance.

Abuja Records Highest Income Levels

One of Abuja’s strongest advantages remains income generation.

The report found that the FCT achieved the highest income score among all locations surveyed, recording 3.16 out of five.

More than 41 percent of respondents reported earning between N500,000 and N999,999 monthly, while nearly 10 percent said they earned at least N1 million per month.

However, researchers observed that higher earnings do not necessarily translate into financial security for many households.

According to the findings, a significant portion of residents’ income is consumed by housing, transportation and utility costs, leaving limited room for savings or emergency expenses.

Housing Costs and Affordability Remain Major Challenges

The report identified affordability as one of Abuja’s weakest areas.

On housing affordability and the general cost of family living, the city scored 2.25 out of five, ranking behind Kano, Rivers and Oyo.

The findings align with increasing concerns about the cost of living in Nigeria’s capital, particularly the rapid rise in residential rents.

SBM Intelligence referenced a separate 2026 study indicating that a monthly income of N300,000 is becoming increasingly inadequate in Abuja, with rent alone consuming up to 40 percent of earnings for many workers.

Residents Express Low Confidence in Electricity Supply

The report also revealed growing dissatisfaction with electricity supply in the FCT.

Only 19 percent of Abuja residents surveyed expressed confidence that power supply would improve within the next two years—the lowest optimism level recorded among all locations studied.

SBM Intelligence described this as a significant indication of public concern regarding one of the capital’s most persistent infrastructure challenges.

Abuja Remains Nigeria’s City of Aspiration

Despite affordability pressures, rising rents and concerns over electricity supply, Abuja continues to be viewed as Nigeria’s leading city of opportunity.

SBM Intelligence concluded that while the capital may not currently offer the highest quality of life, it remains the destination many Nigerians believe provides the best future for their families.

The report described Abuja as “the aspiration, not the reality,” underscoring the gap between perception and everyday experiences.

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The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to affordable housing, revealing plans to align closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda to address housing challenges, especially among low-income earners.

The disclosure was made by the Kano State Commissioner for Housing Development, Arc. Ibrahim Yakubu Adamu, during the Renewed Hope Housing PPP Summit 2.0 held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Conference Centre in Abuja.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Enlightenment at the Ministry of Housing Development, Adamu Abdullahi, the commissioner said the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is intensifying efforts to provide wider access to decent and affordable housing for residents.

Kano Plans Easier Access to Housing

Arc. Adamu explained that the state government is introducing different initiatives aimed at simplifying the process through which residents can access housing opportunities.

He noted that the government is prioritising practical housing solutions capable of making home ownership easier and more accessible for the public.

According to him, authorities are working toward creating a system that removes barriers and allows more citizens to benefit from housing projects.

The commissioner also stressed that the government sees public-private partnerships as a major pathway to achieving large-scale housing development across the state.

State Receives Housing Proposals From Developers

Speaking on the summit theme, “From Policy To Projects: Financing and Delivering Housing at Scale Through PPPs,” Adamu said the discussions reflected the direction Kano State is already pursuing.

He disclosed that several proposals from credible development partners had already been submitted to the government and are currently undergoing review.

“Proposals are received, and they will soon be appraised towards actualising the housing ideas proposed for the benefit of our people,” he stated.

He commended the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling the nation’s housing deficit and improving the welfare of citizens through strategic housing interventions.

Kano Approves 480 Housing Units Under Mega City Project

As part of efforts to accelerate housing delivery, the commissioner revealed that the state government had approved the construction of 480 housing units under a project named Gida-Gida Mega City.

The housing development, located at Rijiyar Gwan-Gwan along Maiduguri Road, is expected to feature facilities designed to support a modern urban environment.

The project represents another step in Kano’s efforts to scale up housing delivery while creating sustainable communities for residents.

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The Abuja–Kaduna–Kano (A2) highway is one of Nigeria’s most critical transport corridors, linking the Federal Capital Territory to the North-West and extending trade routes toward North Africa. It also forms part of the Lagos–Algiers Trans-African Highway, connecting Nigeria’s northern corridor to continental commerce.

Major Route:

Abuja – Gwagwalada – Jere – Kagarko – Rijana – Kaduna – Zaria (linking Sokoto and Jos) – Kano (extending about 11km to Aminu Kano International Airport)

Project Details:

• Commencement: 2018
• Length: ~375 km dual carriageway, divided into three main sections
• Features:
  • Solar-powered street lighting
  • CCTV surveillance system
• Revised Cost: ₦761 billion
• Expected Completion: June 2026

Source: Punch

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A Shari’a Court in Danbare, Kano State, has arraigned a man, Malam Shaddadu, for allegedly selling his son’s house without permission.

The complainant, Muhammad Shaddadu, told the court that his father had earlier bought two tricycles for his half-brothers. According to him, tragedy struck when one of them was attacked and killed by hoodlums, who also made away with his tricycle.

Muhammad said his father wrongly held him responsible for the incident, took him to court, and had him remanded in prison. He was, however, later acquitted of all charges.

Upon his release, Muhammad alleged that his father sold his house, assuming he would never return.

When the charge was read, the father denied the allegation and pleaded not guilty.

Presiding Judge Malam Munzali Idris Gwadabe described the case as a family dispute and referred it to the Court of Arbitration for reconciliation.

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The incident occurred at approximately 6:49 p.m. following hours of continuous rain. Emergency responders launched a coordinated rescue operation shortly after receiving distress alerts.

“Our Search and Rescue team responded immediately in collaboration with other stakeholders,” one official confirmed. “Eyewitnesses reported that several people were inside the building when it collapsed, many of whom were trapped under the rubble.”

Initial reports confirmed two fatalities and six injuries, but updated figures revealed four individuals lost their lives, with seven rescued and taken for medical treatment with varying degrees of injury.

Rescue efforts continued through the night and were concluded early the next morning. Authorities have promised a full structural assessment to uncover the cause of the collapse and ensure nearby buildings are not at risk.

The tragedy has reignited public concern over the safety of uncompleted buildings, particularly during the rainy season, as experts warn of the dangers posed by unstable structures and poor drainage in flood-prone areas.

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By 24, Dantata was representing the family business in Sokoto as a district manager. At 36, he purchased his first aircraft for $15,000 and, within a year, upgraded to a jet valued at $2.5 million. Yet, he humbly described himself as “just rich enough to take care of himself.”

Born in May 1931 as the 15th of 17 children, Dantata received both Islamic and Western education. He attended Dala Primary School from 1938 to 1945 and completed his studies at a private school established by his father in 1949.

He hailed from one of Nigeria’s most prominent business dynasties. As the younger brother of Sanusi Dantata, Aminu was also the granduncle of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote. Following the death of his father in 1955, the Dantata children assumed control of the family enterprise, Alhassan Dantata & Sons. Aminu became deputy managing director in 1958 and, after the passing of his elder brother Ahmadu in 1960, assumed leadership of the business.

Africa International Housing Show

Under his stewardship, the company diversified into banking, petroleum, agriculture, real estate, construction, manufacturing, and finance. He later founded Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and played a pivotal role in establishing Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s first non-interest bank.

Dantata once remarked that he owned land “all over the world,” a philosophy passed down by his father, who believed land ownership was the cornerstone of generational wealth.

“I don’t think I would be able to tell you what land I have now, all over the world not only in Nigeria. In Nigeria, there is nowhere I don’t have lands. Also, in areas where people don’t have the opportunity, I have lands,” he said.

He also served as board chairman of Northern Nigeria Flour Mills Plc (NNFM), further demonstrating his extensive influence across sectors.

Despite his wealth and status, Dantata maintained a low public profile and rarely gave interviews. His nephew, Munzali, whom he raised like a son, fondly recalled his uncle’s enthusiasm for sports, particularly football and polo.

“He had racing and polo horses that competed in Kaduna, Lagos, and even in Chad and Niger,” Munzali shared. “He was overjoyed whenever his horses won trophies, but he eventually retired from the sport as age and weight caught up with him.”

Munzali described Dantata as a multifaceted man a businessman, philanthropist, sportsman, and political figure whose legacy he plans to document in a forthcoming biography.

Dantata’s philanthropic efforts were substantial. In 2024, he donated ₦1.5 billion to victims of the Maiduguri flood disaster.

During the independence era, Dantata was active in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and was even considered for party leadership. He had campaigned tirelessly on a bicycle to raise funds for NEPU, leading to his nomination as youth leader. However, familial obligations curtailed his political ambitions, as his father, a member of the emirate, discouraged direct opposition to the establishment.

Nevertheless, Dantata remained politically active. He was elected as the representative for Kura district in the Northern House of Assembly in 1961. In 1968, he was appointed Kano State Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, and Industry under the administration of Governor Audu Bako.

Later in life, Dantata expressed disillusionment with the state of politics, lamenting a decline in honesty and integrity.

“What I am seeing in politics now is pathetic. We are no longer honest; people are distorting the truth and supporting mischief. It is not good,” he said.

By 2022, at age 91, Dantata spoke openly about his mortality, reflecting on the loss of loved ones and the changing world around him. The passing of his second wife, Rabi, in April 2023 deepened his sense of isolation.

“I have traveled across all Nigerian states and built relationships everywhere, but now, I can barely count ten people I knew who are still alive,” he said during a visit from then APC vice-presidential candidate, Kashim Shettima.

“Honestly, I am just waiting for my time. I hope I leave this world in peace. If I offended anyone, I ask for forgiveness. If anyone offended me, I have forgiven them.”

At 92, he described aging as a profound burden, physically and emotionally, observing that “the atmosphere in the world today is horrible.”

Aminu Alhassan Dantata, the last surviving son of Alhassan Dantata, passed away in Abu Dhabi at the age of 94. He leaves behind a legacy defined by enterprise, philanthropy, humility, and a deep commitment to service an enduring inspiration to generations of Nigerians and business leaders across Africa.

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According to a statement on Friday by the spokesperson for the Kano State Fire Service, Saminu Abdullahi, the incident occurred during the re-digging and repair of the well.

The collapse was reported by a local resident, Bashir Namadi, who alerted the fire service to the emergency.

“Three people were involved: one inside the well and two outside. The sides of the well gave way, causing it to collapse and bury all three individuals,” the statement revealed.

The emergency rescue team arrived at the scene around 12:20 p.m. and managed to save two individuals alive. However, Yusuf Nadabo, a 50-year-old man, was recovered unconscious and later pronounced dead.

The rescued individuals were handed over to the ward head of Gargajiga town for further attention.

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Ata made this statement while speaking with journalists over the weekend in Kano, shortly after his swearing-in as minister.

Ata, a prominent political figure from Kano Central, emphasised that his new ministerial role is intended to serve not only as a platform for development but also as a strategic position for the APC’s political comeback in the state.

The APC, which previously held power in Kano under former governor and current APC national chair, Abdullahi Ganduje, lost the state to the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections.

Speaking candidly, Ata said, “APC has lost Kano State, and now it will take Kano State back. The main problem is the Kano Central, and I am from there.”

According to Ata, his appointment is rooted in political strategy, signalling the APC’s intention to bolster its presence in Kano.

“This position is not just about housing and urban development—it’s about creating a pathway for the APC to reconnect with the people of Kano and win back their trust,” he said.

He further hinted at specific plans aimed at addressing key issues in Kano Central, a vital region in the state’s political landscape.

Ata added, “We recognize the importance of Kano Central, not just for the APC but for the entire state. My mission is to ensure development that resonates with the people and, ultimately, brings them back to the APC.”

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SEMA’s Executive Secretary, Isyaku Abdullahi-Kubarachi, made this disclosure while briefing journalists on Wednesday evening in Kano. He recalled that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had earlier predicted a high risk of flooding in 14 local government areas of the state.

Areas Affected by the Flooding
The flooding impacted a wide range of LGAs, including Tudun Wada, Gwale, Wudil, Danbatta, Ajingi, Dala, Gwarzo, Madobi, Bichi, Kano Municipal, Karaye, Tarauni, Minjibir, Bebeji, Rogo, Shanono, Kabo, Garin Malam, and Ungogo. Other affected areas are Kumbotso, Nasarawa, Kura, Dawakin Kudu, Dawakin Tofa, Gezawa, and Bagwai.

READ ALSO: Government Warns of Imminent Massive Flooding in Seven States

Scale of Destruction
According to Abdullahi-Kubarachi, the floods and windstorms destroyed 6,583 houses, affecting a total of 38,814 people. The damage also extended to farmlands, with 8,289 farms covering 36,265 hectares being wiped out. In addition, 1,414 residents were displaced, and 139 sustained injuries.

Government Response and Relief Efforts
SEMA has taken prompt action to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities. Abdullahi-Kubarachi confirmed that the agency, on behalf of the Kano State Government, visited the devastated areas to sympathize with victims and distributed relief materials to provide immediate support.

READ ALSO; Zaria Flood Victims Plead for Aid as Authorities Evaluate Damage

The agency, in collaboration with stakeholders, has also organized several workshops aimed at finding long-term solutions to prevent future environmental hazards, especially flooding. Abdullahi-Kubarachi praised Governor Abba Yusuf for providing logistics and other necessary assistance to ease the burden on flood victims.

Preventive Measures and Warnings
In his statement, the Executive Secretary cautioned residents against building on waterways and urged them to clear drainage systems in front of their homes to reduce the risk of future flooding. He also called on wealthy individuals in the state to support the agency’s efforts by providing relief materials to flood victims.

Abdullahi-Kubarachi reassured the public that SEMA would continue working diligently to protect lives and property, emphasizing the importance of preparedness to prevent further loss in the future.

The post 49 Dead, 226 Communities Devastated by Floods and Windstorms in Kano, SEMA Confirms appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has initiated the distribution of resettlement allocation letters to farmers displaced by developing two new cities in the state.

This initiative is crucial to the government’s broader strategy to alleviate congestion in Kano metropolis and encourage urban expansion.

READ ALSO: Hoodlums Burn 23 Houses in Agatu LGA, Benue State

The governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, announced that the allocation includes 2,483 plots from Yargaya and Rijiyar Gwangwan in Dawakin-Kudu, and 1,671 plots in Unguwar Rimi and Lambu within Tofa Local Government Areas. These plots are being provided as compensation to farmers whose lands were acquired for the new city developments.

Governor Yusuf emphasized that the new city projects are designed to reduce congestion in Kano metropolis by creating environmentally friendly urban centers with essential amenities. He highlighted the potential of these projects to drive socio-economic growth and improve the quality of life in the affected areas.

READ ALSO: Governor Zulum Commissions 500 Resettlement Houses in Borno State

Bature further noted that the governor called on local communities to embrace the developments and extend their full support to ensure the projects’ success. He also commended community and traditional leaders for their roles in facilitating the compensation process and assuring the public of a transparent and smooth resettlement exercise.

This resettlement initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to balanced urban development while ensuring the well-being of displaced farmers.

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