Dr. Shuaib Mohammed Lamido Belgore has officially taken over as the new Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. He replaces Dr. Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, who has been redeployed to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
The handing-over ceremony took place yesterday at the Ministry’s Conference Hall, where Dr. Belgore, previously serving at the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, expressed his commitment to inclusivity and teamwork. He assured staff of his readiness to collaborate and foster a productive working environment.
“Generally, my style is that of being inclusive. I work with whom I meet on the ground and want to work with you. I believe in teamwork. I expect hard work, commitment, and loyalty,” Belgore stated.
During his speech, Belgore declared his intent to hit the ground running. He directed the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics to immediately brief him on the Ministry’s progress with the Federal Strategic Communications and Collaboration Implementation Plan (FSCCIP) and the housing sector ministerial delivery.
“I want to know where we are on the FSCCIP as well as the Ministerial delivery. These are the two main things I have to achieve while carrying out the mandate of the ministry,” he emphasized.
Belgore also expressed his dedication to advancing housing initiatives under the Renewed Hope agenda, pledging to build on his predecessor’s efforts. “Renewed Housing is a big deal. I intend to ensure that we succeed with it. We will carry on from where he has left it and move to greater heights,” he assured.
Outgoing Permanent Secretary Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi reflected on his time at the Housing Ministry, describing his departure as bittersweet. He expressed confidence in Belgore’s leadership, stating, “The incoming permanent secretary will have a smooth ride while bringing in other reforms. A better hand has come.”
Dr. Ogunbiyi also urged staff to provide full support to Dr. Belgore, noting that the success of the Ministry ultimately reflects on its leadership. He highlighted key projects, including the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates, National Housing Project, and Slum Upgrades, as critical initiatives that define the Ministry’s reputation and impact.
“I came to the Ministry practically not knowing anything, but I have learned a lot from the staff. My departure is a blessing in disguise because I am going back to my mother ministry,” Ogunbiyi added.
The transition marks a new chapter for the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as Dr. Belgore takes charge with a renewed commitment to inclusivity and achieving the Ministry’s mandates.
