Newly appointed minister outlines strategy to expand affordable housing and close long-standing supply gaps.
Nigeria’s Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Darma, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling the country’s estimated 20 million housing deficit.
The minister made the pledge shortly after assuming office, outlining a reform-driven approach focused on delivering affordable homes nationwide.
Darma said the strategy would prioritise collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders to increase housing supply. He also emphasised the need for innovation and improved efficiency in housing delivery systems.
Nigeria’s housing shortage remains one of the largest in Africa. Experts attribute the gap to rapid population growth, urbanisation, and limited access to mortgage financing.
The minister acknowledged structural challenges, including high construction costs and land administration bottlenecks. He said addressing these issues would require long-term planning and sustained investment.
The Federal Government has repeatedly pledged to improve access to affordable housing, particularly for low- and middle-income earners.
Darma’s appointment followed a cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening policy coordination across sectors.
The success of the initiative will depend largely on execution, funding, and institutional reforms.
The government’s housing strategy is expected to play a key role in shaping urban development and economic growth in the coming years.