Zaria:The Federal Government and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) are advocating for innovative solutions to tackle Nigeria’s housing deficit, emphasizing the need for affordable, inclusive, and sustainable communities.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, this call was made during the 2026 World Habitat Day celebration at ABU, Zaria, themed ‘Adequate Housing for All.’ The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Motoka Daruma, addressed the event through his representative, Mr. Danbaba Yahaya, highlighting the government’s commitment to expanding access to adequate housing and developing sustainable cities.
Dr. Daruma noted that adequate housing extends beyond providing shelter, incorporating security, dignity, affordability, and access to essential services. The challenges of rapid urbanization, housing shortages, and rising construction costs necessitate coordinated interventions to meet the country’s housing needs. The government’s initiatives, part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aim to increase housing supply and improve mortgage finance access.
The government is also exploring innovative financing mechanisms to assist more Nigerians, including those in the informal sector and diaspora, in accessing affordable housing. Reforms in land titling and administration are underway to enhance security of tenure and attract investment. Additionally, local production of building materials is being promoted to reduce costs and create jobs.
ABU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, represented by Prof. Bello Sabo, expressed the university’s commitment to leveraging its research capabilities in addressing housing challenges. ABU plans to focus on developing climate-resilient building materials and training professionals for emerging challenges. The university seeks partnerships with private developers and financial institutions to advance building technologies suited to Nigeria’s conditions.
Former Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shehu-Usman Abdullahi urged stakeholders to focus on developing sustainable communities, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure, transportation, and public spaces. Inclusive housing policies and innovative financing are essential for addressing the needs of various vulnerable groups.
The speakers at the event underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among different sectors to improve Nigeria’s housing and urban settlements, which are crucial for social stability and economic resilience.