Alh Dangiwa Launches 10,000-Unit Housing Estate, Emphasizes Affordable Housing Agenda in Enugu

During the groundbreaking ceremony, the Minister emphasized that projects like this align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration's commitment to providing affordable housing for Nigerians, particularly by fostering an environment that allows the private sector to flourish.

"This estate, part of the 10,000-housing unit Coal City Eastern Extension Layout, is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's vision to ensure affordable and quality housing for all Nigerians," he stated.

He highlighted the country's significant housing shortage, noting that to address the issue, around 550,000 housing units need to be built annually for the next decade, which would cost approximately N5.5 trillion each year.

Addressing the gravity of the housing deficit, the Minister suggested it should be seen as a chance to innovate and develop long-term solutions for sustainable housing in Nigeria, benefiting not only the present but also future generations.

"This deficit stems from poor implementation of housing policies, underperformance of housing delivery institutions, an underdeveloped housing market, an untapped secondary mortgage sector, and broader economic challenges," he explained.

To tackle these issues, the Minister outlined several strategies, including seeking funding from private developers, housing finance institutions (both domestic and international), philanthropic organizations, and corporate entities. He emphasized the importance of partnerships with reputable private developers to achieve the desired impact.

"Like other challenges facing our nation’s development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration is taking bold steps to address the housing shortage and change the narrative for the better."

He further shared that the results of these efforts are already becoming evident. Under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, construction has begun on 6,612 housing units across 13 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with many nearing completion. The goal is to finish most of these units by December, allowing Nigerians to begin owning homes.

Additionally, construction has started on 3,500 housing units in three new Renewed Hope Cities, including 2,000 units in Lagos (South West) and 1,500 units in Kano (North West). In the South East, Enugu was chosen for the development of a 2,000-unit Renewed Hope City, part of a larger agreement with a consortium of developers to deliver 100,000 housing units nationwide.

The Minister commended the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, for creating an environment conducive to private sector participation in housing development. He praised the Governor's leadership and vision, noting that the availability of 260 hectares of land in a prime location made this project possible.

"I’d like to express my gratitude to His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, for enabling private sector involvement in housing development in Enugu State. I have had several interactions with him and can confidently say he is a visionary leader accomplishing significant milestones," the Minister added.

He also acknowledged Rev. Dr. Sullivan Chime, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of Copen Group, as a close friend and a dedicated advocate for affordable housing. The Minister lauded Dr. Chime for his contributions to the state and beyond, recognizing the Graceland Estate project as a testament to his impactful work.

"I’ve known Dr. Chime for many years, and throughout this time, I have always admired his integrity, professionalism, and commitment to public service. The Graceland Estate project, which we are here to inaugurate today, is another milestone in his impressive career as a developer. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is proud to support this project as part of our broader Renewed Hope Housing Programme," the Minister concluded.

Speaking at the event, Governor Mbah, represented by Deputy Governor Bar. Ifeanyi Ossai, applauded Copen Group’s initiative and described Dr. Chime as a distinguished son of Enugu State. He also thanked the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development for including Enugu in the Renewed Hope Cities & Estates programme with the planned 2,000-unit development.

Governor Mbah also called on stakeholders to work towards lowering housing construction costs, emphasizing the need for investment in research to reduce the dependence on cement. "I am pleased that you’ve designed a strategy that brings together all the necessary parties to make this project affordable and accessible to our people," he said.