The President, Bola Tinubu has today declared open the 18th Africa International Housing Show in Abuja, disclosing  that 7,171 housing units under New Hope City Housing projects are currently making significant progress in Federal Capital Territory and other states of the country.

Represented by Engr Muttaqha Rabe Darma, the President explained that they included the 2,888-unit New Hope Housing Project in Katampe, Abuja, the 2,084-unit project in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, and the 2,207-unit project in Lambu, Kano State.

He hinted that they have projects across the country while initiating new developments is meant to meet the growing demand, and in line with our partnership approach, completed estates have been handed over to state governments for allocation to deserving citizens, for timely occupation.

“Through strategic public-private partnerships and innovative financing arrangements involving the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, mortgage real estate investment funds, the Family Homes Fund, the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company and private developers, we are expanding opportunities for affordable home ownership.”

He further explained that the beneficiaries have already taken possession of some homes under the New Hope Rent-to-Own Housing Scheme. These achievements are the culmination of sound policy and deliberate development efforts.

“Looking ahead, the Federal Government is advancing the proposed Tinubu Mass Social Housing Scheme, a transformative initiative designed to deliver about 150,000 affordable housing units across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria in two phases.”

Also, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume,in a goodwill message, extended  warmest congratulations to the organisers of the AIHS for building a stable platform for dialogue, innovation, partnerships and investment in the continent’s housing development sector.

Akume also explained that Africa’s housing development agenda must be driven by policies that are intentionally aligned with our development objectives and targeted at high-level delivery and leadership, not only to grow the housing sector but also to make housing accessible and affordable.

Earlier, the Chairman of the AIHS, Senator Ayim Pius Ayim said beyond housing construction, liveable communities require adequate infrastructure and effective urban planning, adding, housing has become a major platform for economic development under the policy framework.

“Our National Urban Renewal Programme is providing critical infrastructure, including roads, drainage systems, water supply, sanitation facilities, street lighting and environmental improvements in underserved communities across the country,” he added.