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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Federal Government has strengthened its collaboration with UN-Habitat to accelerate affordable housing delivery and promote the development of resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart cities across Nigeria.

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, disclosed this during a meeting with a UN-Habitat delegation in Abuja, noting that both parties are advancing Climate Responsive Housing Initiatives aimed at expanding access to sustainable homes while addressing climate risks.

Dangiwa said Nigeria recognises the strategic value of the partnership, particularly in facilitating access to international climate finance from global funding institutions. He added that the collaboration would help mobilise resources for social housing programmes targeted at vulnerable populations, including women who are disproportionately affected by climate change and conflict-induced displacement.

The minister also expressed appreciation to the European Union-funded Sustainable Integrated Development Programme for Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria (SIDPIN) for delivering housing solutions and strengthening community integration in Adamawa, Kano and Borno states. He said the initiative aligns with the ministry’s priority of rebuilding livelihoods and fostering social cohesion in post-conflict areas.

According to him, the Federal Government remains mindful of its obligations under the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UN-Habitat and is committed to meeting those commitments while leveraging opportunities within the framework.

Dangiwa further revealed that mechanisms are underway to review the National Urban Development Policy as part of broader planning reforms designed to reposition Nigeria’s built environment and promote sustainable urbanisation.

The renewed partnership underscores Nigeria’s push to bridge its housing deficit, enhance urban resilience, and align national housing strategies with global climate and sustainability standards.

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