Ilorin: The Federal Government has handed over 132 housing units to the Kwara Government at the National Housing Programme Estate Ogbondoroko in Ilorin. Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, who received the documents and keys to the estate in Asa Local Government Area, stated that the acquisition would address the housing deficit in the state and provide sustainable housing for residents.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the governor, represented by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, confirmed that the estate has been fully purchased by the Kwara government from the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. The estate comprises 132 housing units with one, two, and three-bedroom options, both detached and semi-detached.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, noted that the Federal Government initiated the housing project to mitigate the housing deficit. He commended the Kwara Government for acquiring the housing units for public benefit. Represented by Alhaji Musa Abdullahi, Director of Public Building and Housing in the ministry, Dangiwa announced plans for a new housing project, the Renewed Hope Housing Estate, in Kwara.
Additionally, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, emphasized that the ceremony symbolized purposeful governance and collaboration between the Federal and State Governments. Represented by Dr. Toyin Nasamu, Special Assistant, Belgore praised the state government’s proactive approach in securing the estate, reflecting their vision to enhance housing access and integrate it into the state’s urban growth plan.
The News Agency of Nigeria had previously highlighted issues with abandoned housing estates nationwide, including the National Housing Programme Estate in Ogbondoroko. Their report underscored the challenges Nigerians face in obtaining affordable housing and the potential of such estates to become neglected or vandalized if not properly managed.