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Housing Minister Dangiwa Highlights Gains Under His watch

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Housing Minister Dangiwa Highlights Gains Under His watch

 

*Over 252,000 jobs created under housing programmes
*10,000 houses under construction
*President Tinubu’s vision for housing & urban development commendable
*Our goal is to build at least one Renewed Hope City in each geopolitical zone

 

With over 252,000 jobs created and 10,000 houses undergoing construction, HM Housing, Arc Dangiwa Highlights Progress in Housing and Urban Development at State House Meet The Press Programme

Housing Minister Dangiwa Highlights Gains Under His watch

18 November 2024, Abuja – The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, delivered a compelling presentation today at the State House Press Gallery, outlining the Ministry’s achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Minister detailed a comprehensive range of initiatives aimed at reducing Nigeria’s housing deficit, driving economic growth, and improving the lives of millions of citizens, reflecting a clear commitment to an inclusive vision for the nation’s housing sector.

Opening his presentation, Minister Dangiwa underscored the leadership role of President Tinubu, whose vision and support have empowered the Ministry to focus exclusively on housing and urban development. “Everything starts with good leadership. When the vision is clear and there is an unwavering commitment to serve, great things happen,” he stated. “Under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have been entrusted with the monumental task of implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda, a mission to provide accessible and affordable housing for every Nigerian while catalyzing economic growth.”

A cornerstone of the Ministry’s efforts is the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, which spans 14 active construction sites across Nigeria. This initiative is delivering over 10,000 housing units in various locations, ensuring an equitable distribution of projects across the six geo-political zones. The Renewed Hope Estates comprise twelve estates, each with 250 housing units, while larger urban projects, branded as Renewed Hope Cities, are underway in the Federal Capital Territory, Kano, and Lagos, with further expansion planned for other states. “Our goal is clear: to build at least one Renewed Hope City in each geo-political zone, bringing homes closer to those who need them most,” the Minister added.

Minister Dangiwa also highlighted the economic impact of the housing programme, emphasizing job creation as a critical outcome. “At an average of 25 jobs per housing unit, we have directly and indirectly created over 252,800 jobs across the country,” he explained. “From architects, engineers, and surveyors to masons, carpenters, plumbers, and general labourers, the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme is revitalizing communities and providing meaningful employment opportunities.” He noted that daily wages for workers average ₦5,000, enabling many to earn monthly incomes well above the national minimum wage, which contributes to economic stability and reduces crime.

Central to the Ministry’s strategy is the development of innovative homeownership options designed to make housing accessible for all Nigerians. Through the National Housing Fund (NHF), administered by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), citizens can access loans of up to ₦50 million at a highly competitive 6% interest rate, with a repayment period of up to 30 years. This initiative offers a lower equity requirement compared to commercial banks, making homeownership more attainable. The Ministry has also introduced a Rent-to-Own scheme, enabling contributors to move into homes while gradually paying for ownership over three decades without an initial equity contribution. Minister Dangiwa stressed the importance of affordability and accessibility, describing these initiatives as “life-changing pathways to homeownership.”

To ensure a transparent and streamlined process, the Ministry has launched the Renewed Hope Online Housing Delivery Portal. This platform allows citizens to explore, apply for, and secure housing units conveniently. “It is a one-stop shop for homeownership,” said the Minister. “With over 47,605 registered users and more than 1,000 applications completed, this platform revolutionizes housing accessibility, removing the need for lobbying or backdoor negotiations.”

Acknowledging the financial challenges inherent in housing development, Minister Dangiwa outlined a multi-faceted funding strategy. Budgetary allocations have been complemented by public-private partnerships (PPPs) and international collaborations. The Renewed Hope Estates are being funded with a ₦50 billion allocation from the 2023 supplementary budget, with an additional ₦27.2 billion earmarked for 2024. Meanwhile, PPPs have attracted over ₦40 billion in financing for projects such as the Karsana Renewed Hope City, backed by a ₦100 billion Bankable Offtaker Guarantee from the FMBN.

However, the Minister recognized that the scale of Nigeria’s housing deficit, estimated at 550,000 units per year, necessitates increased budgetary support. “Our advocacy for a minimum annual housing budget of ₦500 billion starting in 2025 has gained the support of the National Assembly,” he revealed. This increased funding would enable the Ministry to expand housing projects and increase unit counts in various states, furthering the Renewed Hope Agenda’s reach.

Beyond housing construction, the Ministry has made strides in land administration reforms, slum upgrading, and the establishment of building materials manufacturing hubs to reduce construction costs and boost local economies. The hubs, designed under a build-operate-transfer arrangement, will attract private investment and create jobs while lowering the cost of building materials.

“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are not just building houses; we are building hope, jobs, and economic opportunity,” Minister Dangiwa concluded. “We are creating a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of income, can aspire to a decent home and a thriving urban environment. This is our commitment to the people, and we will continue to serve with dedication and passion.”

The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development remains steadfast in delivering sustainable and inclusive housing solutions for all Nigerians, transforming lives and contributing to a stronger, more prosperous nation.

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Ewekoro Local Government Strengthens Ties with Community and Celebrates Unity at Recent Events

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Ewekoro Local Government Strengthens Ties with Community and Celebrates Unity at Recent Events

Ewekoro, Ogun State – December 7, 2024

 

In a series of significant events underscoring the commitment to community welfare and development, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Ewekoro Division, led by Division Officer Mrs. Oyebade Folukemi, paid a congratulatory visit to the newly elected Chairman of Ewekoro Local Government Council, Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa. This visit, which took place on December 2, 2024, marked a crucial step towards strengthening collaboration between the NSCDC and local government officials, aimed at enhancing the safety and security of the Ewekoro community.

Mrs. Oyebade expressed her congratulations to Hon. Adesina, emphasizing the NSCDC’s commitment to supporting local governance and ensuring a secure environment for residents. The visit served as a platform to discuss strategies for improving safety measures in the area, illustrating the proactive approach of the NSCDC in fostering a safe community for all.

In another notable event, market women from Ewekoro Local Government paid a visit to Hon. Adesina to express their gratitude for his administration’s efforts in empowering local traders. Under his leadership, significant projects have been implemented, including the construction of modern market facilities, such as the 183 lock-up shops at Arigbajo Market. These developments have greatly enhanced the socio-economic activities of market women, contributing positively to their livelihoods and the overall well-being of the community.

Led by Alhaja Ejire, the head of market women, the delegation thanked Hon. Adesina for his unwavering support and commitment to their cause. The discussions during the visit focused on exploring further collaboration to address the challenges faced by market women, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to people-oriented projects that uplift the community.

The strong presence of local leaders during this visit, including Vice-chairman Alhaja Abisola Nuratu Aliyu and other key administration officials, highlighted the unified effort to promote the welfare of Ewekoro’s residents. The Chairman’s administration has earned recognition for its initiatives that significantly impact the lives of market women and the broader community.

Additionally, the recent Obada Day 2024 celebration, held on December 1 at Owiwi Primary School in Obada Ward 10, showcased the unity and love within the communities of Obada Town. Hon. Sikiru Adesina joined dignitaries such as HRM Oba Olufemi Solaja, the Olu of Obada Town, and HRH Oba Kasimawo Ogundare, the Olu of Opelifa, to celebrate this significant event. The celebration emphasized the importance of love, unity, and progress in Ewekoro Local Government, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole.

In a related announcement, the Ewekoro Local Government has informed all revenue consultants that the 2025 Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) Sales of Form will commence on December 2 and close on December 13, 2024. Those interested in securing a position are encouraged to purchase the form during this period.

These recent engagements and celebrations reflect Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa’s commitment to fostering community spirit, enhancing local governance, and promoting economic growth in Ewekoro Local Government. As the administration continues to work hand-in-hand with various stakeholders, there is a renewed sense of optimism for the future development of the community.

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FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

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FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

 

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has raised an alert on the new XEC COVID-19 variant, urging heightened surveillance across Nigeria’s healthcare facilities.

The XEC variant, first identified in Australia, has now been detected in 29 countries and is showing a growth advantage over existing strains. Health experts are concerned about its potential impact on public health.

The warning was conveyed in a letter dated December 5, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. O.N. Anuma.

“I am directed to inform you of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant which has already spread to 29 countries globally. This variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health,” the letter read.

Call to Action

Dr. Anuma emphasized the need for immediate vigilance in hospitals nationwide.

“Alert systems should be activated immediately for a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms,” he said.

The ministry also stressed the importance of collaboration among health institutions to monitor the variant and share critical data.

“We urge you to work with relevant stakeholders to implement enhanced monitoring protocols and ensure timely information sharing with the Federal Ministry of Health for effective response strategies.”

Global Spread and Implications

First identified in Germany in June, the XEC variant has since been reported in France, the United States, the UK, Denmark, and other countries. Over 600 cases have been recorded globally, with scientists noting that while the variant has mutations that may aid its spread, vaccines are expected to remain effective in preventing severe cases.

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Bunmi Olu: A trailblazing woman and epitome of excellence reaches another incredible milestone ~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

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Bunmi Olu: A trailblazing woman and epitome of excellence reaches another incredible milestone

~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

 

A London-based Nigerian entrepreneur celebrates a landmark birthday with outstanding entrepreneurial acumen at fifty plus on Saturday, 7th December 2024

Bunmi Olu’s leadership style, marked by exceptional courage, integrity, and dedication to duty as founder of Dreamfo Widows and Widowers International NGO, has earned her a special place in the hearts of good Nigerians at home and abroad, and indeed the world at large

Your tireless pursuit of excellence in public service is a beacon of inspiration, and your remarkable legacy amongst women of virtue in the public sphere continues to inspire others to achieve greatness

As a trailblazing woman of substance, you continue to demonstrate remarkable courage in all your endeavors, while also committing to develop a responsible management system that ensures the efficient utilization of international resources at Dreamfo, a hub for thousands of widows and widowers

Your project vision has showcased considerable positive impact on womanhood and society as a whole, and it remains impressive. Your ability to make substantial contributions to the growth of future generations and create employment opportunities to some Dreamfo widows and widowers is indeed exceptional and second to none

Ma, your accomplishments as a distinguished woman in the battalion serve as a testament to your lasting influence on the community and its residents

Your exemplary work ethic and steadfast commitment to the well-being of the people have won their trust and appreciation, a reflection of your exceptional leadership

I’m delighted to extend my sincerest congratulations to you on this momentous birthday occasion

May this birthday celebration continue to motivate you to reach greater heights of achievement and service to humanity

Congratulations once more ma! May God continue to bless and guide you. Amen!

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist writes from Lagos

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