The National Assembly has supported the minimum yearly housing budget of N500 billion proposed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa disclosed this while speaking to journalists at the State House in Abuja.
According to Dangiwa, the call for budgetary support is motivated by the scale of Nigeria’s housing deficit, which he estimated at 5,550,000 units per year.
“Our advocacy for a minimum annual housing budget of ₦500 billion starting in 2025 has gained the support of the National Assembly,” he said.
The minister said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is not only focused on building houses but hope, jobs and economic opportunity.
He said the Tinubu administration is creating a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of income, can aspire to a decent home and a thriving urban environment.
He revealed that under Tinubu’s leadership, his ministry is entrusted with providing accessible and affordable housing for every Nigerian.
“From architects, engineers, and surveyors to masons, carpenters, plumbers, and general labourers, the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme is revitalising communities and providing meaningful employment opportunities,” he said.
Dangiwa revealed that workers have been able to earn above the national minimum wage because their daily wage is N5,000 per day.
The minister of Housing also said that the leadership of President Tinubu has enabled impactful reforms in the housing sector.
Dangiwa asserted this during a media parley in Abuja, explaining that the move has enabled the ministry to focus its efforts on executing various housing projects to improve the lives of Nigerians, create jobs, and boost economic growth.
He said they have embarked on various initiatives to address the housing deficit in Nigeria which includes increasing the housing supply, emphasising that they are committed to closing the national housing gap through the construction of 10,112 housing units.
He explained that 12 estates are under construction comprising 250 housing units in 12 states, totaling approximately 3,000 units while major urban projects are underway in Abuja and additional developments in Kano and Lagos, among other states.
“Over 252,800 jobs have directly been created for Nigerians, significantly contributing to the nation’s economic landscape, affirming skilled and unskilled workers are benefitting from robust employment opportunities, earning significantly above the national minimum wage.”
While informing Nigerians of the flexibility and seamlessness of applying for houses, Dangiwa hinted that they have empowered over 47,605 Nigerians to explore, apply, and track their housing applications online, streamlining the home ownership process.
Dangiwa expressed that the ministry is committed to fulfilling the Renewed Hope Agenda by ensuring every Nigerian has access to affordable and dignified housing. “Our efforts are not just about building houses; we are building a brighter future for generations to come.”
