The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has called for research-driven solutions to address Nigeria’s growing housing deficit, urging architects, researchers, and academic institutions to develop innovative building technologies and locally sourced construction materials that can make housing more affordable and sustainable. The Fund said research and innovation are critical to transforming the country’s housing sector and reducing dependence on imported building materials.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) to the TETFund headquarters in Abuja, Executive Secretary Arc. Sonny Echono said the Fund is committed to supporting research initiatives capable of delivering practical solutions to Nigeria’s housing challenges. He explained that TETFund’s National Research Fund has been expanded to support innovation beyond universities and other tertiary institutions, allowing broader participation in research that addresses national development priorities.

Echono expressed concern over Nigeria’s continued reliance on imported construction materials, noting that nearly 80 per cent of the building materials used in the country are sourced from abroad. He challenged architects and researchers to intensify efforts toward developing indigenous alternatives that are affordable, environmentally sustainable, and capable of strengthening local manufacturing while creating employment opportunities.

According to the TETFund boss, greater investment in research and innovation would help lower construction costs, improve housing quality, and promote climate-responsive building solutions suited to Nigeria’s environment. He added that translating research findings into commercial applications would strengthen the construction industry and contribute significantly to national economic development.

Echono also encouraged professionals within the built environment to take advantage of TETFund’s research funding opportunities and collaborate with universities, research institutes, and industry stakeholders to develop scalable housing solutions capable of addressing Nigeria’s estimated housing deficit.

Stakeholders believe that combining research, innovation, local material development, and stronger collaboration between academia and industry will accelerate affordable housing delivery, reduce import dependence, and improve the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s housing sector.

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