The Nigerian federal government announced the completion of over 240 urban renewal and slum-upgrading schemes across the country, with another 100 currently in various stages of implementation. Housing and Urban Development Minister Muttaqha Rabe Darma revealed these figures on Monday in Abuja during the joint celebration of World Habitat Day and World Cities Day. According to AllAfrica, the announcement marked a significant step in the government's ongoing effort to address the national housing deficit and revitalize aging urban centers.
Darma explained that these initiatives fall under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, which aims to construct 100,000 residential units across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The ministry is simultaneously working to strengthen housing institutions, refine land administration processes, and build local manufacturing hubs for construction materials to lower costs. He pointed to the recent launch of a 250-unit civil service estate in Gwagwalada as a key achievement in the push for broader homeownership.
Despite these milestones, the minister admitted that high interest rates, scarce long-term capital, and strict eligibility rules continue to hinder home ownership. To overcome these hurdles, the ministry is encouraging rent-to-own models and public-private collaborations. Darma also urged for stricter enforcement of building standards, the modernization of the National Building Code, and the creation of a comprehensive National Housing Data Bank to inform future investment strategies.
Niina Rinne, leading the UN-Habitat Nigeria Country Office, offered a contrasting perspective during the same gathering. She cautioned that simply adding more housing without thoughtful urban design might introduce new problems for inhabitants. According to Leadership, Rinne noted that poorly situated developments can raise transport costs, overload existing infrastructure, and leave neighborhoods vulnerable to environmental risks. She advised the government to focus on upgrading existing informal settlements with better drainage, safer roads, and climate-resilient facilities.
The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria also shared its latest performance metrics during the event. Managing Director Shehu Usman Osidi reported that the institution funded 6,911 affordable homes in 2025, meeting 96 per cent of its yearly goal. He noted that over N208 billion in loans was approved, with more than N120 billion actually disbursed. Osidi added that the bank intends to roll out a non-interest mortgage option and a rent subsidy program for federal workers by the end of October.