By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigerian government has initiated the construction of the ‘Renewed Hope’ Cities and Estates project, starting with the groundbreaking for the first phase, which includes 1,250 housing units across four states in Northern Nigeria. This project, spearheaded by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa, follows the official program launch by President Bola Tinubu in February 2024, which began with a 3,112-unit housing project in Karsana, Abuja.
The construction activities will officially commence at the following sites:
– *Katsina:* 250 housing units at Renewed Hope Estate on May 22, 2024.
– *Kano:* 500 housing units at Renewed Hope City on May 23, 2024.
– *Yobe:* 250 housing units at Renewed Hope Estate on May 24, 2024.
– *Gombe:* 250 housing units at Renewed Hope Estate on May 25, 2024.
### Breakdown of Housing Units
*Renewed Hope City in Kano:*
– 100 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
– 300 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
– 100 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
*Renewed Hope Estates in Katsina, Yobe, and Gombe:*
– 50 units of 1-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
– 100 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
– 50 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
### Economic and Social Impact
Minister Dangiwa emphasized the project’s potential to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, contributing to national development. He stated, “We are committed to our promise to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to turn the country into a huge construction site and unlock the potential of the housing sector.”
The project is estimated to create approximately 31,250 skilled and unskilled jobs, with an average of 25 jobs per housing unit. The construction work will also stimulate local economic activities, benefiting both the communities and the broader economy.
Housing Affordability
The housing units are designed with affordability in mind, featuring organic designs that allow for expansion from one bedroom to two or three bedrooms as the income of beneficiaries increases. Several ownership options are provided to address social inequality, including:
– Single-digit and up to 30-year mortgage loans from the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria.
– Rent-to-Own options with flexible payment plans.
– Outright Purchase for high-income earners.
Funding and Future Plans
The 1,250 housing units are funded under the N50 billion 2023 Supplementary Budget of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. Minister Dangiwa assured that the Renewed Hope Housing Programme will cover all states in Nigeria, with those not included in the 2023 Supplementary Budget to be addressed in the 2024 Budget.
He also called on state governments yet to provide land for the projects to do so promptly, enabling the Ministry to finalize project plans. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the housing deficit and enhancing living standards across the country.
The initiative signifies a significant step towards achieving affordable housing and economic development in Nigeria, reflecting the government’s dedication to improving the quality of life for its citizens.