Alh Dangiwa Promotes Adoption of Climate-smart Housing
Ahmed Dangiwa, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, has urged the adoption of environmentally friendly, sustainable, and climate-smart housing designs within Nigeria’s housing sector. Speaking at the 2024 Archibuilt Exposition, hosted by the Nigerian Institute of Architects in Abuja, he encouraged professionals to embrace innovative and sustainable approaches to meet the country's housing demands.
In his address, Dangiwa stressed the importance of focusing on green and resource-efficient solutions, highlighting how previous expositions had showcased transformative ideas such as sustainable building materials, energy-efficient designs, water conservation, and zero-emission construction technologies.
“The ongoing discussions will shape Nigeria’s future in construction and have a global impact. What we need is innovation grounded in technology and equitable use of resources,” Dangiwa said.
He emphasized the key role of architects in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities. He noted that architects have the unique ability to design urban spaces that are inclusive, resilient, and adaptable.
“We must ask ourselves: How can we ensure that the cities we build are not only environmentally sustainable but also socially equitable? How do we create urban ecosystems that promote health, economic growth, and environmental stewardship?” Dangiwa posed.
He also addressed the challenges posed by rapid rural-urban migration and Africa’s growing population, pointing out the strain on infrastructure. “African nations, including Nigeria, which is expected to exceed 400 million people by 2050, must find ways to respond to the pressures of migration and population growth,” Dangiwa said.
He called on architects to develop local solutions and creatively address these challenges, advocating for the use of indigenous materials like bamboo, laterite, and compressed earth blocks to reduce carbon footprints while maintaining cultural identity.
Dangiwa further noted that Nigeria is committed to promoting sustainable housing and urban development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He revealed that the 3,112 Karsana Renewed Hope City and other similar projects are undergoing EDGE Green Certification, positioning them to make a significant green impact in housing development.
Former Vice President Namadi Sambo, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, urged architects to envision cities as dynamic ecosystems that promote mobility, reduce congestion, and enhance quality of life. He also encouraged the creation of a think tank to advise the Minister on practical innovations for the sector.
The event's focus on the future of architecture, technology, and innovation was echoed by Mobolaji Adeniyi, President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, who emphasized that the exposition was designed to showcase cutting-edge products and technologies.