Ministry mulls N500bn annual housing budget from next year

Ahmed Dangiwa, minister of housing and urban development, says the ministry’s calls for a minimum yearly housing budget of N500 billion, starting in 2025, has gained the support of the national assembly. 

Dangiwa spoke on Monday at the state house press gallery in Abuja.

Dangiwa said the scale of Nigeria’s housing deficit, estimated at 550,000 units per year, calls for increased budgetary support.

“Our advocacy for a minimum annual housing budget of ₦500 billion starting in 2025 has gained the support of the National Assembly,” he said.

“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are not just building houses; we are building hope, jobs, and economic opportunity.

“We are creating a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of income, can aspire to a decent home and a thriving urban environment. This is our commitment to the people, and we will continue to serve with dedication and passion.”

’OVER 252,800 JOBS CREATED ACROSS NIGERIA’

He highlighted the ministry’s achievements under the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu.

Dangiwa said the vision and support of Tinubu have empowered the ministry to focus exclusively on housing and urban development.

“Everything starts with good leadership. When the vision is clear and there is an unwavering commitment to serve, great things happen,” he said.

“Under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have been entrusted with the monumental task of implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda, a mission to provide accessible and affordable housing for every Nigerian while catalyzing economic growth.

“Our goal is clear: to build at least one Renewed Hope City in each geo-political zone, bringing homes closer to those who need them most.”

Dangiwa also highlighted the economic impact of the housing programme, emphasising job creation as a critical result.

“At an average of 25 jobs per housing unit, we have directly and indirectly created over 252,800 jobs across the country,” he said

“From architects, engineers, and surveyors to masons, carpenters, plumbers, and general labourers, the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme is revitalizing communities and providing meaningful employment opportunities.”

Dangiwa said the average “worker’s daily wage is N5,000”, allowing many to have monthly salaries significantly “higher than the national minimum wage”, contributing to economic stability and reducing crime.

The minister described the online housing delivery portal, which allows citizens to explore, apply for, and secure housing units, as a “one-stop shop for homeownership”.

“With over 47,605 registered users and more than 1,000 applications completed, this platform revolutionizes housing accessibility, removing the need for lobbying or backdoor negotiations,” he said.

He said the ministry of housing and urban development remains committed to providing sustainable and inclusive housing solutions for all Nigerians, transforming lives and contributing to a stronger, more prosperous nation.