The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has revealed ambitious plans for Nigeria’s housing sector.
Dangiwa announced that the ministry plans to increase formal land transactions nationwide by 50% within 10 years.
This initiative aims to unlock $150 billion in dead capital, potentially boosting Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product by 30%.
He disclosed these plans during the ministry’s 2025 Sector Retreat held recently in Lagos, focusing on housing reforms.
The retreat was themed: “Actualising the Renewed Hope Agenda for Housing and Urban Development: Examining Strategies, Identifying Opportunities.”
Land Registration Overhaul to Unlock Capital
According to Dangiwa, the ministry is partnering with the World Bank and state governments for land registration reforms.
The National Land Registration and Titling Programme will formalise land transactions, providing Nigerians with improved access to capital.
“The World Bank completed its first technical mission in November and will return for a second in March,” he stated.
Institutional Reforms and Housing Expansion
The ministry is advancing institutional reforms, including a National Social Housing Fund and Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs nationwide.
Task teams have submitted reports, and their recommendations will undergo further stakeholder review during the ongoing sector retreat.
These projects aim to improve the livability of Nigerians, aligning urban development goals with the ministry’s renewed mandate.
2025 Declared Year of Action for Housing Sector
Dangiwa declared that 2025 would be a year of action, with the ministry accelerating housing reforms nationwide.
He stressed, “Small efforts cannot solve Nigeria’s big housing problem. We need bold, strategic interventions for success.”
The ministry collaborated with UN-Habitat to develop a National Urban Development Policy, awaiting Federal Executive Council approval.
This policy outlines a 10-year action plan to achieve sustainable urbanisation, aligning with global best practices.
Real Estate Regulatory Authority Planned
Plans are also underway to establish a Real Estate Regulatory Authority for better sector oversight and governance.
Dangiwa praised Abdulmumin Jibrin, House Committee Chairman on Housing, for championing this crucial legislative initiative.
“We will work closely with the House Committee and stakeholders to establish this much-needed regulatory framework,” he noted.
These comprehensive reforms are designed to transform Nigeria’s housing sector and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
