By Isah Aliyu Chiroma
The Vice President Kashim Shettima has confirmed that N21 trillion would be needed to effectively address the nation’s housing deficit.
Speaking at the groundbreaking for 500 homes by the Sokoto State government within the metropolis, Shettima commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for attempting to address the problem.
“Nigeria has a deficit of 28 million houses, and we will need N21 trillion to meet our housing needs. This step taken by the governor is highly commendable and worthy of emulation by other state governments.” Shettima said.
Earlier, the Sokoto helmsman said the estate would be sold to civil servants on an owner-occupier basis when completed, pledging: “We are determined to complete it for the benefit of our workers and the general public. The project, located at Wamakko Local Council, will cost the state government N7.3 billion.”
The well-attended event marked the first 100 days in office by the current administration.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State government has wooed private sectors to address the housing needs of its teeming population.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Kamar Olowoshago, made the appeal at the first anniversary of Rabbanire in Lagos, a crowd funding initiative of Tobykemsworth Investment Limited, a real estate marketing and development firm, aimed at making housing accessible to Nigerians.
While applauding the initiative, Olowoshago harped on the need for private organizations to assist the state government in bridging the housing gap estimated at about three million.
Represented by the Director of Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA), Saheed Omotosho, the permanent secretary observed: “Housing deficit is something that is predominantly mentioned in the present government’s THEME agenda, and the government cannot do it alone.”
They need to go into partnership with the real estate practitioners to get people in there to support them for the provision of housing. Government is doing its best, but they have to do more because they are closer to the people than even the government.
“Rabbanire is international not only in Lagos. I believe by the time other key players in the industry come, they will be able to compliment the effort of Rabbanire.”
Also, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives, Mrs. Adetutu Oluremi Ososanya, represented by Director, Agribusiness support unit in the ministry, Mrs. Gbemisola Muninat Atitebi Osi-efa, described the initiative as a laudable project that should be extended to an average person on the street of Lagos.
She pledged to partner the company to ensure that many Lagosians enter into the housing net without much hassles.
Earlier, the firm’s Managing Director, Dr. Adekunle Raphael-Monehin, expressed the hope that Rabanaire would reduce housing burden in the country.
He said: “We are sure that affordability for housing is key right now, if you want to set control on the housing deficit, with the experience we have had over the years, since 2009.”
Your reaction