Ahmed Dangiwa, minister of housing and urban development, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to providing affordable housing for low-income earners across Nigeria.

Mr Dangiwa, speaking at an event commemorating the 2024 Urban October and World Habitat Day in Abuja on Thursday, emphasised the government’s focus on policies supporting lower-income individuals.

The World Habitat Day is a day set aside by the United Nations to promote a better urban future.

The year 2024 is themed “Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future and Youth Leading Climate and Local Action for Cities.”

The minister highlighted the national social housing fund which was aimed at assisting low-income Nigerians in accessing affordable housing.

Additionally, he said a policy targeting youth involvement in climate resilience and urban development was launched, ensuring active youth participation and promoting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities.

Mr Dangiwa stressed the importance of addressing urbanisation challenges, raising awareness about housing needs, and providing sustainable urban shelter.

He noted that sustainable development was a shared responsibility, requiring the incorporation of youth perspectives into urban planning and development.

“The federal government is taking steps to address the housing deficit, investing in housing and infrastructure under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Cities and Estate programme.

“The programme aims to build 50,000 housing units in phase one, with construction underway across 14 states.

“A workshop on green building, in collaboration with the World Bank, was also initiated to incorporate sustainable climate practices into housing projects.”

Mr Dangiwa further expressed the government’s determination to implement policies supporting urban regeneration, improving housing finance systems, and enhancing the National Urban Governance Framework.

Shehu Osidi, managing director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), assured that the bank would continue to provide affordable housing loans to young Nigerians, supporting institutions and contributing to the growth and transformation of urban centres.

(NAN)