Stakeholders in Nigeria’s built environment sector have called on the Federal Government to actively engage indigenous physical planners in the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, warning that development efforts without proper planning could lead to fragmented and unsustainable outcomes.

The call was made during the maiden annual lecture organised by the Nathaniel Atebije Foundation for Planning Advocacy in Abuja, where professionals, policymakers, academics, politicians, and development experts gathered to discuss the future of urban planning and sustainable development in Nigeria.

The event featured a keynote lecture delivered by the Vice Chancellor of Bells University of Technology, Prof. Jeremiah Ojediran.

In a communiqué jointly signed by the convener of NAFPA, Nathaniel Atebije, and the Chairman of the Maiden Lecture Planning Committee, Barnabas Atiyaye, participants stressed that planning must serve as the foundation for all development initiatives under the Federal Government’s economic and infrastructure programmes.

According to the stakeholders, Nigeria’s rapid urban growth remains largely unstructured, resulting in worsening congestion, flooding, environmental degradation, and the spread of informal settlements across cities.

They warned that many ongoing projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including housing and infrastructure developments, are being executed without proper spatial integration.

“Cities are expanding without structure, leading to severe economic and social consequences. Development without coordinated planning creates unsustainable urban systems,” the communiqué stated.

The participants further argued that physical development should not be mistaken for physical planning, noting that infrastructure projects implemented without coordinated master plans often create long-term urban management challenges.

They also expressed concern that housing initiatives may fail to deliver lasting value if they are not properly connected to transportation systems, drainage infrastructure, utilities, and environmental frameworks.

As part of their recommendations, the stakeholders urged the Federal Government to accelerate the completion of the long-delayed National Physical Development Plan, which has remained pending for over 15 years.

According to them, the national framework is necessary to guide balanced regional growth, urban expansion, and coordinated infrastructure development across Nigeria.

The participants further called for strict compliance with approved master plans and structure plans in all cities and urban centres.

They insisted that planning regulations should be treated as legally binding instruments rather than optional guidelines, warning that weak enforcement continues to fuel illegal developments and chaotic urbanisation.

The stakeholders also proposed that Federal Government projects should only be approved in states and local government areas with up-to-date master plans.

According to them, such a policy would compel sub-national governments to prioritise physical planning before embarking on major infrastructure and housing projects.

The communiqué additionally raised alarm over increasing encroachment on green areas, wetlands, and environmentally sensitive zones, particularly within the Federal Capital Territory.

Participants lamented that green coverage in Abuja has reportedly declined to about 17 percent, far below the 33 percent allocation contained in the Abuja Master Plan.

They warned that continued violations of designated green and open spaces could gradually transform Abuja from the “green city” envisioned in the original master plan into what they described as a “brown city.”

The stakeholders further condemned what they described as illegal and unprofessional changes of land use in Abuja, accusing political actors and developers of disregarding planning regulations with impunity.

According to them, unauthorised developments, weak zoning enforcement, and uncontrolled urban expansion continue to undermine the original vision of Abuja as a planned and environmentally sustainable capital city.

They called on relevant authorities to immediately halt further encroachment on green spaces and reverse existing violations to restore order and environmental balance within urban centres.

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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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The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has urged that ongoing legal disputes surrounding the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project and WinHomes Estate should not be misinterpreted as government hostility toward investors, particularly those from the Nigerian diaspora.

Speaking during a live interview on Arise News on Tuesday, the minister clarified that while litigation involving property demolitions along the highway corridor exists, it does not obstruct the implementation of key national infrastructure initiatives.

“There were and are still cases in court. The first involved 39 property owners whose structures were affected. They were evaluated and compensated, even for informal settlements,” Umahi said. “The president directed us to pay because he wants to alleviate their problems.”

The minister expressed concern that certain media narratives surrounding the disputes could distort public perception and discourage credible foreign investment, especially from Nigerians living abroad.

“When people invoke the diaspora angle in a negative light, it creates unnecessary fear among genuine investors,” Umahi noted. “This government is very friendly with Nigerians in the diaspora, and we will not allow anyone to damage that relationship or the administration’s reputation.”

Umahi also revealed that some diaspora investors who are resident in Nigeria have reached out to seek further clarification on the project’s scope and progress. “They’ve sent letters and want to come to the office. I am more than willing to meet with them and clear any doubts,” he said.

Despite the legal friction, Umahi maintained that the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway remains on schedule and is advancing through multiple phases. “The coastal highway is progressing very well. We are now in session two, and we’ve opened session three and three B, about 65 kilometers in Calabar,” he stated.

The controversy surrounding WinHomes Estate intensified after the company’s diaspora investors raised concerns over demolitions tied to the highway’s alignment. Earlier, Umahi had told reporters that only about four hectares of the estate’s land were impacted by the government’s development plans.

However, the Chief Executive Officer of WinHomes Global Services Ltd., Stella Okengwu, contested the minister’s remarks, insisting that the estate’s total investment exceeds $250 million. She also stressed the importance of upholding legal processes in the dispute.

In response, Umahi questioned the accuracy of the figures being cited. “If truly $250 million was invested, where is the proof? Who paid the money, and through which bank? Nigerians deserve to know,” he said.

The Minister reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency and to fostering a secure investment climate. He assured stakeholders that the government remains open to dialogue and that legitimate investor concerns will be addressed within the framework of the law.

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Miziara, a small Lebanese village of 6,000 people overlooking the Mediterranean, symbolizes the deep ties between Lebanon and Nigeria. Many from Miziara have emigrated to Nigeria, where the Lebanese community now numbers between 30,000 and 100,000. Many Lebanese-Nigerians, including fourth-generation families, proudly call Nigeria home.

The village’s main street is named after Gilbert Chagoury, Miziara’s most famous son and benefactor. Pierre Daaboul, Deputy Mayor of Miziara, described him as “like a godfather” due to his significant investments in local infrastructure and education. Daaboul adds, “About 80 percent of the village works in Nigeria because they make much more money there.”

Born in Nigeria in 1946 to Lebanese parents, Gilbert Chagoury studied briefly in Lebanon before returning to Nigeria, where he founded The Chagoury Group in 1971. The group is now a major Nigerian conglomerate with interests in construction, real estate, agribusiness, and hospitality. Notable projects include Eko Hotels and Eko Atlantic City; a massive land reclamation project designed to protect Lagos from coastal erosion.

The Chagoury Group is also building the 700 km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a key infrastructure project. While some have questioned the contract awards, government officials highlight the company’s expertise and capacity.

Chagoury’s ties to Nigeria haven’t been without controversy, notably linked to the late General Sani Abacha. He denied wrongdoing, paid fines, and returned funds to Nigeria.

Beyond business, Chagoury is a philanthropist and art lover, honored by the Pope and France for his contributions. His donations include a priceless tapestry to the Louvre and significant COVID-19 relief efforts in Lagos.

Though his roots are in Lebanon, Nigeria is where Gilbert Chagoury has made his mark, building a legacy of business success and cultural connection that bridges two continents.

By: Simbo Olorunfemi
Source: Proshare

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Describing Oramah as a visionary leader, President Tinubu lauded his efforts in expanding intra-African trade, streamlining payment systems, and driving critical development initiatives across the continent. “Today is your day, Prof. Oramah,” Tinubu declared. “I have the privilege of bestowing upon you one of Nigeria’s highest honours in recognition of your outstanding service the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger.”

Under Professor Oramah’s leadership, Afreximbank’s assets grew exponentially from $5 billion to over $37 billion. His tenure saw the bank play a pivotal role in Africa’s pandemic response, providing financing for over 400 million COVID-19 vaccine doses, supporting industrialisation, and strengthening the creative economy. The president noted that Nigeria alone had benefited from more than $52 billion in support across vital sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.

Tinubu highlighted landmark projects including the Dangote and BUA Refineries, the African Medical Centre of Excellence, and the Africa Quality Assurance Centre, describing them as emblematic of Africa’s rising potential and Nigeria’s strategic importance. He further commended Nigeria’s adoption of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a move aimed at enhancing cross-border trade and reducing dependency on foreign currencies.

Looking ahead, Tinubu announced the upcoming launch of the Africa Energy Bank, to be headquartered in Abuja with a $5 billion initial capital base, designed to finance Africa’s energy transition and support renewable energy development. Other ongoing collaborations include scaling Nigeria’s fertiliser production capacity to 7.5 million tonnes annually and advancing critical infrastructure such as the $3.5 billion Bakassi Deep Seaport.

President Tinubu underscored Afreximbank’s evolving role as more than a financier but as a strategic partner in building Africa’s economic architecture. Through initiatives like FEDA, AQAC, CANEX, and PAPSS, the bank supports African entrepreneurship, boosts quality standards, and empowers creative and export-driven industries.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s broader economic trajectory, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to difficult yet essential reforms aimed at stabilising the macroeconomy, promoting inclusive growth, and enhancing productivity. “Since May 2023, under our Renewed Hope Agenda, we have undertaken bold measures, including the removal of the fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rates, to secure a sustainable economic future for all Nigerians,” he stated.

In honoring Professor Oramah, President Tinubu not only celebrated individual excellence but also reaffirmed Nigeria’s resolve to lead in shaping Africa’s economic renaissance.

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The estate will provide 500 housing units. It is located near Sokoto New City and is designed for civil servants and other residents. The goal is to offer decent and affordable housing in a growing part of the state.

Governor Ododo praised the initiative. He said the project shows what people-focused leadership looks like. “This project is more than bricks and mortar,” he said. “It builds communities and brings hope to many.”

The event had many notable guests. Among them was the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III. He thanked Governor Ododo for attending and praised Governor Aliyu’s commitment to his people. “Your people-centered approach is commendable,” the Sultan said.

AFRICA INTERNATIONAL HOUSING SHOW 2025

He also appreciated the guidance of Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko. The former governor has remained a mentor and supporter of the current administration.

The project includes 300 three-bedroom homes and 200 four-bedroom units. It will be handled by Teamwork Construction Company Nigeria Limited. The company is expected to complete the project in 12 months. The homes will be open to public and private buyers, supporting a balanced housing market.

Governor Ododo praised the collaboration between the government and private sector. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reforms that help states build critical infrastructure.

He ended with a formal declaration: “To the glory of Almighty Allah and for the good people of Sokoto State, I now perform the groundbreaking for the 500-unit housing estate.”

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This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday at the conclusion of a conference themed “Powering Nigeria: Mobilising Private Capital,” aimed at encouraging private investment in Nigeria’s infrastructure development.

The event saw participation from domestic investors and private-sector companies controlling about N20 trillion in institutional capital and investment expertise in sectors such as power, renewable energy, agriculture, and water, sanitation, and hygiene.

The statement highlighted that USAID, through the Power Africa and Prosper Africa initiatives, along with Chapel Hill Denham, is addressing challenges in Nigeria’s power sector by mobilising investment in the country’s electricity supply industry.

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“To date, the partnership has mobilised N245 billion of institutional capital into priority infrastructure projects across Nigeria, including N33 billion for renewable energy projects to provide reliable clean energy to low-income consumers,” the partners announced.

Reports indicate that Nigeria has the highest number of people living without electrical power globally, with over 85 million citizens lacking access to electricity.

Speaking at the conference, USAID Mission Director to Nigeria, Melissa Jones, emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure to support development goals, drive innovation, create jobs, and ensure long-term profitability for businesses and investors.

READ ALSO: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project Launched, Aims to Benefit 30 Million Nigerians

“The government, private sector, academia, and investors must work together to create an enabling environment for the power sector’s growth and the adoption of renewable energy while ensuring reasonable returns and protections for private investors,” Jones stated.

Bolaji Balogun, Chief Executive Officer of Chapel Hill Denham, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, saying, “We are pleased to partner with the US government to advance Prosper Africa and Power Africa Initiative goals. Investing in infrastructure is pivotal to Nigeria’s development, accelerating the attainment of the sustainable development goals, enabling sustainable prosperity, and creating jobs and opportunities for Nigerians.”

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