By Hosea Parah, Abuja
The Renewed Hope Concern Citizens (RHCC) has urged the government to intervene in the housing sector in Okun Ajah, Lagos, following concerns raised by the Association of Nigerian Diaspora Investors (ANDI) in the United States. ANDI has called on the Nigerian government under President Muhammadu Buhari to take immediate action to resolve the issues.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, Hon. Tayo Agbaje, Chairman of RHCC, acknowledged the government’s progress in improving Nigeria’s infrastructure and energy sectors. However, he expressed concern over the misalignment of housing policies, particularly with the 2006 Gazetted alignment, which has played a significant role in securing stability for foreign investments.
The RHCC stressed the importance of reinstating the 2006 Gazetted alignment, recognizing that its continuation is critical to maintaining investor confidence and fostering economic growth. This plea was made during a peaceful protest organized by the RHCC on Friday. The organization called on Senator David Umahi, the Minister of Works and Housing, to reinstate the policy, which it believes is essential for the future of Lagos’ housing sector, especially in Okun Ajah.
Key points raised by the RHCC include:
Investment Stability: The 2006 Gazetted alignment has been a key factor in attracting and maintaining investor confidence in Nigeria’s housing and energy sectors.
Economic Growth: Diaspora investors play a crucial role in job creation and business development, and safeguarding their interests is vital to continuing their contributions to the Nigerian economy.
Attracting Foreign Investment: Reinstating the 2006 alignment would position Nigeria as a more stable investment destination, encouraging further foreign investments in the country’s infrastructure.
Risk Mitigation: Any changes to established policies create uncertainty, posing risks to both current and future investments. Protecting diaspora investors’ interests is critical in minimizing these risks.
Long-Term Economic Stability: Upholding the 2006 alignment would show Nigeria’s commitment to long-term economic stability, reassuring both local and international investors.
The RHCC has voiced full support for ANDI’s push to return to the 2006 Gazetted alignment for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, believing that this would safeguard the interests of Nigerian diaspora investors. The organization emphasized that swift government action is needed to preserve Nigeria’s favorable investment climate.
In its call for government intervention, the RHCC urged collaboration between the government and key stakeholders to ensure a stable investment environment. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the interests of Nigerian investors, both domestically and abroad, as the situation continues to develop.