The Federal Government, through the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development by bringing together critical stakeholders to enable ordinary citizens to actively participate in sustainable housing delivery in Nigeria.
Housing as a Pillar for Economic Growth
The government recognized housing as a major pillar for economic growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and national development. This recognition drives policies and programs aimed at expanding access to affordable housing for Nigerians.
Minister's Remarks at Housing Summit
Speaking at the Housing Summit in Abuja, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, explained that housing is more than just shelter. He emphasized that a home represents dignity, security, stability, and hope for families, serving as the foundation for healthy communities and productive societies.
Darma regretted that many citizens across Africa, especially low- and middle-income earners, still struggle to access affordable housing. He called for practical, innovative, and inclusive solutions, highlighting the cooperative housing model as one such solution.
Cooperative Housing Model
The Minister commended the Cooperative Housing Federation of Nigeria and its international partners for assembling stakeholders from across Nigeria and Africa to discuss access to decent and affordable housing. He stated, "Across the world, cooperatives have demonstrated that when people come together with a shared vision, they can achieve what may seem impossible individually. Cooperative housing encourages savings, collective responsibility, trust, and long-term sustainability."
Government's Continued Engagement
Darma further explained that the government is ready to continue engaging stakeholders and supporting initiatives that promote affordable housing, housing finance innovation, urban development, and sustainable partnerships for the benefit of Nigerians and Africans at large.
He noted, "Today, technology is changing every sector of the economy, including housing finance. Digital platforms can help cooperatives improve transparency, mobilize savings more efficiently, simplify access to credit, strengthen mortgage administration, and build trust among members."
Call to Action
The Minister urged stakeholders to move beyond conversations into actions that will deliver real housing opportunities to workers, women, young people, farmers, entrepreneurs, and vulnerable groups who genuinely desire decent shelter.
