The Federal Government through
the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development, bringing in critical stakeholders together to give ordinary citizens the opportunity to participate actively in sustainable housing delivery in the country.

Besides, it stated that they’ve recognized the housing as a major pillar for economic growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and national development, saying,this is why they are pursuing policies and programmes aimed at expanding access to affordable housing for Nigerians.

Speaking at Housing Summit in Abuja, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development,Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma explained that housing is more than just shelter, adding, a home represents dignity, security, stability, and hope for families and is the foundation upon which healthy communities and productive societies are built.

Darma regretted that many citizens across Africa, especially low- and middle-income earners, are still struggling to access affordable housing, and this challenge calls for practical, innovative, and inclusive solutions, while one of such solutions is the cooperative housing model delivery.

He commended the Cooperative Housing Federation of Nigeria and all its international partners for bringing together stakeholders from across Nigeria and Africa to discuss one of the most important needs of our people on how to have access to decent and affordable housing.

“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-erm sustainability,”the Minister stressed.

Darma further explained that they
are 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.

“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, strong then mortgage administration, and build trust among members.”

The Minister therefore urged stakeholders to move by going 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.