…Assures Support via Federal Mortgage Bank

…NUJ Commits to Strengthened Collaboration with Housing Ministry

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Dangiwa, has expressed strong support for the proposed ‘NUJ FCT Journalists’ Village’, a housing initiative championed by the Federal Capital Territory Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Speaking while receiving a delegation from the NUJ FCT Council led by Chairperson Comrade Grace Ike, the Minister reaffirmed the federal government’s resolve to ensure that media professionals benefit from national housing development efforts.

Dangiwa, joined by the Minister of State, Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, and senior ministry officials, praised the media for their vital contributions to Nigeria’s progress. “You amplify government policies to the people and hold leaders accountable. We deeply appreciate the critical service you render,” he said.

He announced that the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) would provide backing for the Journalists’ Village under a cooperative model, stressing the need for the NUJ to first secure a properly titled plot of land. He assured the union that once this is in place, and architectural plans are submitted, the Ministry through FMBN would facilitate the construction of affordable homes payable over a 30-year period.

This commitment, he explained, is part of the Renewed Hope Housing Programme of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which aims to bridge the national housing gap, create jobs, and elevate living standards. The programme features three key components: large-scale housing developments in major cities including the FCT under the Renewed Hope Cities plan; 250-unit housing estates for middle-income families in every state capital; and a social housing segment providing 100 homes in each of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas for low-income earners, informal workers, and persons with disabilities.

So far, over 10,000 housing units have been launched across 14 states and the FCT. In addition, more than 150 slum upgrade projects, comprising roads, solar-powered streetlights, potable water systems, and drainage infrastructure, have been implemented to enhance urban living conditions.

To simplify homeownership, the Minister introduced a newly launched digital platform, www.renewedhopehomes.fmhud.gov.ng, which allows citizens to apply for homes, explore mortgage options, and track their applications conveniently online.

He disclosed that the Renewed Hope Programme has already generated over 250,000 jobs nationwide. In a related effort, the Ministry is working to reform land administration systems to unlock an estimated $300 billion in idle real estate assets, making land more accessible for development.

Dangiwa also revealed a strategic partnership with Shelter Afrique Development Bank to fund the construction of 5,000 low-cost housing units. He highlighted plans for the establishment of building materials hubs to help reduce the cost of construction and make homeownership more affordable.

“Our vision is clear,” he stated. “Every Nigerian deserves a decent place to call home.”

Responding, Comrade Grace Ike commended the Minister and President Tinubu for launching the ambitious plan to deliver 50,000 new homes in the first phase. She applauded the milestone of 10,000 completed housing units, the progress in slum regeneration, and ongoing reforms within the Federal Mortgage Bank and Federal Housing Authority.

She praised the Minister’s advocacy on global platforms, including initiatives like the Diaspora Mortgage Scheme and housing provisions for people with disabilities. “Housing is more than shelter, it is a symbol of dignity and a foundation for nation-building,” she remarked. “As protectors of democracy, journalists must not be excluded from homeownership opportunities.”

Comrade Ike called on the Minister to back the NUJ’s vision for a dedicated Journalists’ Village in Abuja, aimed at providing secure and affordable housing for media professionals. She also appealed for infrastructure support to complete the NUJ Pentagon building and to construct a modern convention centre capable of hosting over 2,000 journalists.

She urged the Ministry to partner with the NUJ in urban renewal programmes, positioning journalists not only as communicators but as stakeholders and contributors. Additionally, she requested support in creating access to housing finance and capacity-building for journalists to understand government housing policies and mortgage systems.

Reaffirming the union’s commitment to national development, Ike pledged continued collaboration with the Ministry in promoting government initiatives and facilitating public understanding. She also extended special appreciation to Bar. Festus Adebayo, CEO of the TV Housing Show, for his consistent advocacy for affordable housing opportunities for journalists in the FCT.

Independent.ng