The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, is intensifying its initiatives to guarantee the successful execution of essential decisions pertaining to land, housing, and urban development. Following a prolonged period of delay, the Department has decided to create a mid-term evaluation and oversight system to tackle these shortcomings. During the latest 13th gathering of the National Council, which took place in Gombe State, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, the Permanent Secretary, pointed out the ongoing issues plaguing the sector.
In his role as the Chairman of the Permanent Secretaries within the Council, Ogunbiyi stressed the importance of regularly monitoring the Council’s resolutions to aid in the achievement of Nigeria’s housing objectives. Due to the slow execution of earlier resolutions, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has suggested a more active strategy. This year, a memorandum was submitted to the Council to obtain permission for ongoing assessments of the Council’s decisions. This initiative received approval at a recent Technical Session and will be brought forward to the wider group of Permanent Secretaries.
A collaborative effort will help in regular review meetings.
Dr. Ogunbiyi emphasised that this revised approach aims to ensure that every participant in the housing sector is responsible, furthering Nigeria’s housing goals. He highlighted the importance of consistent oversight from all tiers of government to reach the country’s housing aims. The Ministry intends to work hand-in-hand with pivotal stakeholders by organising regular review meetings and carefully tracking the advancement of different projects. The overarching theme for the 2024 conference, “Housing the Future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilience and Urban Development”, emphasises the necessity for a housing strategy that is both sustainable and inclusive.
He highlighted a range of significant issues, such as the lack of affordable housing, swift urban growth, and restricted land availability. He contended that these challenges demand an organised and forward-thinking strategy for urban development. In response to these challenges, the Ministry has introduced a variety of programs. One notable initiative is the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Housing Scheme, designed to enhance housing Construction in every geopolitical zone nationwide. This initiative has made headway, with several affordable housing units currently being built across the country.
Land acquisition process for citizens will be simplified.
Furthermore, the Ministry is working on strategies to refine land use regulations, aiming to simplify the process of land acquisition for citizens. One of the primary objectives of the Ministry’s updated approach is to create a National Housing Data Center. Dr. Ogunbiyi emphasises that having a unified housing data system will play a crucial role in shaping policies, plans, and decisions. The Housing Data Steering Committee, led by Ogunbiyi, will manage the gathering of extensive housing information from various public and private entities.
Also, this project aims to enhance the availability of precise housing information, aiding in formulating sound housing policies. By establishing a trustworthy database, the Ministry seeks to lay a strong groundwork for strategising and tackling Nigeria’s housing requirements. Reliable data concerning Real Estate and land will serve to steer policy, monitor advancements, and guide subsequent choices. He highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to providing all Nigerians with access to safe, sustainable, and affordable housing. He pointed out that the Ministry’s current initiatives and collaborations showcase a commitment to better land utilisation, advancing urban development, and offering cost-effective housing options.
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Lastly, the Ministry envisions a future where vibrant and sustainable communities are typical, ensuring all citizens have access to budget-friendly housing. This objective is in harmony with the nation’s wider socio-economic progress and aims to enhance the structure of both Nigeria’s urban and rural regions. As the country progresses, there will be an emphasis on partnerships among the government, private industry, and key interested parties. Through integrating oversight, data-informed approaches, and dedication to efficient policy execution, Nigeria’s housing sector strives to address historical obstacles and ensure an improved future for its populace.