The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to the timely completion of sustainable and affordable housing projects, emphasizing that this initiative constitutes a major housing legacy for Armed Forces members. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Darma, made this statement during a familiarization visit to the Renewed Hope Housing Project for military personnel and the Renewed Hope City Housing Estate in Karsana, Abuja.
The military housing project, comprising 1,550 units, includes essential infrastructure such as road networks, water supply, schools, and sporting facilities to ensure a conducive living environment for beneficiaries. Darma noted that the visit allowed for an assessment of on-site progress, adding, "This project is a major legacy initiative of the present administration for military personnel, and we are impressed with the level of development and supporting infrastructure being put in place."
Timely Completion and Quality Assurance
The Minister stressed the importance of completing the projects on schedule, assuring that the Ministry will maintain close monitoring and supervision to guarantee quality, durability, and compliance with approved standards. He highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's high priority on affordable and sustainable housing for Nigerians, stating that the Ministry remains committed to delivering on its mandate under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
"Mr. President relies on the Ministry to deliver affordable and sustainable housing for Nigerians, and we are fully committed to achieving that mandate," Darma said. He explained that the housing estate for military personnel is being executed under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement with Brains and Hammers Limited.
Project Progress and Economic Impact
According to Darma, the project has reached approximately 70 percent completion, with developers projecting a three-month timeline for delivery, despite having seven months remaining in the contractual schedule. Meanwhile, the 2,744-unit Karsana Housing Estate is nearing completion. The Minister expressed gratitude to project financiers, including the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria and Family Homes Funds Limited, for their support, noting that the project will create over 15,000 jobs for skilled and unskilled workers.
Darma also commended the consultants and contractors for their dedication and professionalism, urging them to maintain high standards and adopt a strong maintenance culture to sustain the Renewed Hope Housing initiative. Upon assuming office, he pledged to build on existing achievements in the housing sector, assuring all Nigerians of his commitment to expanding access to affordable housing and promoting sustainable urban development nationwide.
The Minister was accompanied by the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Shuaib Belgore; Ministry Directors; and officials of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria led by Managing Director Shehu Usman Osidi.
