The Federal Government has unveiled plans to construct 10,000 housing units for medical professionals under the Renewed Hope Medic Cities initiative. Spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development in partnership with the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria,
The Federal Ministry of Health, and the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, this project aims to provide affordable and decent housing for healthcare workers nationwide. Housing Minister Ahmed Dangiwa made the announcement during a meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors in Abuja, highlighting the pressing need to improve the living conditions of medical professionals, particularly in urban areas where accommodation challenges are prevalent.
Dangiwa underscored the importance of addressing these housing difficulties, noting that adequate housing significantly impacts productivity, stability, and quality of life. He called for collaboration between the government and professional bodies to achieve these goals. The initiative is part of the broader Renewed Hope Housing Programme, which seeks to expand access to affordable housing across Nigeria. Dangiwa revealed that over 10,000 housing units are under construction across 14 locations, including major developments in Abuja, Lagos, and Kano. Additional efforts include 12 Renewed Hope Estates, each comprising 250 units, being built in 12 states, with plans to extend the initiative to all 36 states.
Healthcare workers were encouraged to explore various homeownership options, such as long-term National Housing Funds mortgage loans, rent-to-own schemes, instalment payments, and outright purchases. An online portal has been established to facilitate applications for these housing units. Dangiwa stated that the initiative demonstrates the government’s dedication to enhancing the welfare of healthcare workers, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dr. Tope Osundara, National President of NARD, commended the government’s efforts to address the housing challenges faced by doctors. He stressed that affordable housing would help curb the emigration of Nigerian doctors in search of better opportunities abroad. Osundara also proposed a pilot project in the Federal Capital Territory, involving 1,000 housing units, to serve as a model for other states. He emphasized the importance of locating these housing units near hospital premises to facilitate timely responses to medical emergencies.
Dr. Suleiman Sadiq, a representative of REDAN and NARD, explained that the project involves collaboration between the Ministries of Housing and Health, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, and private-sector partners. Construction is expected to begin in early 2025. Sadiq expressed confidence that the initiative would enhance the living standards of healthcare workers, boost their productivity, and contribute to the overall improvement of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
