North contributes highest to Nigeria's 17m housing deficit

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Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas has said that North has the highest share of the 17 million housing deficit in the country.

To this end, he appealed to governments at all levels to promote affordable housing initiatives to cater to the homeless.

The Speaker stated this at the closing of the maiden Kaduna International Housing Exhibition on Thursday saying, the provision of housing for all citizens is a fundamental right.

Represented by the Chairman House Committee on Housing and Habitant, Hon. Abdulmumini Jibril, Abbas remarked, “Available data shows that Nigeria has a housing deficit of 17 million housing units in urban centres and Northern Nigeria has the largest share of this deficit.

“This makes it imperative for us to find innovative and sustainable means of closing this huge gap in the provision of shelter to our people.

The theme of this exhibition, “Kaduna Sustainable Housing Development: A Model for Northern Housing” resonates deeply with the challenges we face today, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

“The provision of adequate housing is not just a basic human need but a fundamental right that underpins sustainable development and social cohesion. Sustainable housing development is not just about constructing buildings; it encompasses creating communities that are environmentally friendly, socially inclusive, and economically viable.

“Housing exhibitions of this nature have a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Initially, these exhibitions were primarily organized by governments or real estate developers to showcase new housing projects, urban planning initiatives, and architectural innovations. They served as platforms to demonstrate progress in housing development and to inspire future advancements in the field.

“Governments at all levels must formulate policies to promote affordable housing initiatives, improve urban planning strategies, enhance infrastructure development, combat homelessness through social welfare programs, protect vulnerable populations from forced evictions, and ensure equal access to housing opportunities for all citizens.

“Furthermore, collaboration with stakeholders including private sector entities, civil society organizations, academia, and international partners is essential in fostering innovative solutions to address housing needs effectively.

“It is imperative, therefore, that we work together to ensure that every individual has access to safe, affordable, and dignified housing. This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes not only increasing the supply of affordable housing but also addressing issues such as property rights, building standards, infrastructure development, and urban planning. These are issues we hope this maiden Kaduna Housing exhibition will address.

In his address the Chairman Board of Kaduna International Housing Exhibition Limited, Shamsudeen Yusuf said, the exhibition is testament to collective efforts and commitment towards addressing the prevalent issue of Housing deficit and challenges in Kaduna state and beyond.

“It also provides us with a unique opportunity to explore innovative solutions and foster collaboration among stakeholders within the Housing sector and built environment.

“As we forge ahead, it is imperative that we embrace innovation, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability, and the critical role of the private sector by allowing it to take the lead in driving growth in the Housing and Real Estate sector.

“Government and public institutions can provide support through sustainable policy frameworks and regulations, enabling environment for ease of doing business and boosting investor confidence.

” As we walk through the exhibition and engage with various local and international industry experts, policymakers, and innovators, we must see this exhibition as a platform and opportunity to share ideas and best practices that will ultimately drive growth and development,” he said.

He however called for a close collaboration of all stakeholders to build a bridge of opportunity that empowers the communities and improves future generations.

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