The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has announced plans to utilize funds from the removal of fuel subsidies and profits from the windfall tax to finance housing projects aimed at benefiting those without income, low-income earners, the homeless, vulnerable, and underprivileged members of society.
National Social Housing Fund Initiative
During a recent courtesy visit by Andrew Osemedua Edum, the President and Chairman of the Committee on Construction Projects and Infrastructure of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Business Law, Dangiwa shared details of the initiative. He explained that the National Social Housing Fund will be mobilized to administer and allocate affordable, decent, and accessible homes for Nigerians in need. “The funds will be sourced from the removal of fuel subsidies,” Dangiwa confirmed, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups.
Commitment to Housing Reforms
Dangiwa highlighted his administration’s dedication to driving Social Housing reforms, aimed at making affordable housing accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of income. He explained that four housing sector reform task teams have been established to focus on reforming housing institutions, land reform, and developing a building materials manufacturing hub. Reports from these teams will soon be implemented to ensure the sector progresses effectively.
Focus on Low-Income Earners
With 80 percent of Nigerians classified as low-income earners, Dangiwa stressed the importance of these reforms in expanding affordable housing. “To make a sustainable impact, all key players in the housing value chain must work efficiently and fulfill their mandates,” he stated. “It’s not just about building houses; we need a system that delivers practical and long-lasting results.”
Addressing Building Collapses
As part of the broader reform efforts, Dangiwa announced the introduction of a checklist system to monitor and address the issue of building collapses across the country, ensuring that construction projects meet necessary safety standards.
Collaboration with the NBA-SBL Committee
During the visit, Andrew Osemedua Edum, SAN, expressed interest in partnering with the Ministry to enhance infrastructure development in Nigeria. He invited Minister Dangiwa to deliver a keynote address at the second national conference on construction projects and infrastructure, scheduled for November 27–30, 2024, in Abuja. The conference will focus on the theme “Making Construction Projects and Infrastructure Better in Nigeria.”
