The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), a leading civil society organization in Nigeria’s housing industry, has called on electorates in Ondo State to prioritize candidates who make housing a central part of their agenda in the forthcoming governorship elections.
The elections, slated for November 16th, 2024, provide a critical opportunity for voters to advocate for leaders who recognize housing as a key driver of economic development and social progress.
In a statement released on Friday by HDAN’s Executive Director, Festus Adebayo, the organization emphasized the importance of electing leaders who are committed to addressing the state’s housing deficit. “Now is the time for electorates to demand housing as a priority from politicians seeking their votes,” Adebayo stated. “Housing is not just a fundamental human right but also a crucial contributor to economic growth. It creates jobs, stimulates local industries, and improves living standards for all.”
Adebayo urged politicians to incorporate housing into their manifestos and constituency projects, emphasizing its potential to tackle unemployment and boost the economy. “When leaders focus on housing, they are not only addressing shelter needs but also unlocking opportunities for employment, especially for our youth,” he added.
Highlighting the pivotal role of governance in addressing housing challenges, Adebayo called on the Ondo State legislature and government to implement policies that prioritize affordable housing. “The importance of housing cannot be overstated. It is essential for individual dignity and national development,” he remarked.
HDAN also encouraged Ondo State voters to critically assess the governorship candidates’ manifestos and choose leaders with clear, actionable plans for housing and urban development. The list of candidates, spanning various political parties, presents voters with diverse options to evaluate.
The organization reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for better housing policies across Nigeria and Africa at large, urging citizens to see housing as a collective priority and use their votes to demand meaningful change.
As Ondo State prepares for the polls, the focus on housing could redefine the trajectory of the state’s development and set a precedent for prioritizing this vital sector across Nigeria.
HDAN is a research-driven, non-profit, volunteer, and non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting affordable housing across Africa. With a membership of over 5,000 professionals spanning various disciplines within the housing and construction industry, HDAN strives to advance sustainable housing solutions throughout the continent
