Information Minister Urges Developers to Prioritise Sustainable Housing

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged property developers to prioritise quality, responsible planning and sustainable community development as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to address Nigeria’s housing deficit.

Idris said housing development must go beyond the construction of buildings to creating functional communities that promote economic growth, generate employment and improve the living conditions of residents.

The Information Minister who made the call in Abuja at the 20th Anniversary Gala and Award Night of Abuja Property Development Company (APDC) Limited, also highlighted the role of private-sector participation in delivering affordable and sustainable housing.

He noted that property developers had a responsibility to ensure that housing projects met the needs of families and communities while contributing to the orderly expansion of urban centres.

“Property development goes beyond putting up buildings. It involves creating spaces where families can live, businesses can grow, and communities can thrive,” Idris said.

The Minister urged developers to uphold professional standards and embrace responsible planning, stressing that the long-term value of property development depended not only on the quality of buildings but also on their contribution to the wider community.

“Well-planned developments can stimulate economic activities, create jobs and support urban growth, making the property sector an important contributor to national development”, he said

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Idris also highlighted the Nigerian Government’s Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme as part of ongoing efforts to expand access to home ownership through sustained investment, strategic partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms.

“Through the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, the administration has advanced housing projects across the country, with more than 10,000 housing units commenced across 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

The Minister noted that the progress recorded under the programme underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and private-sector stakeholders in addressing the country’s housing challenges.

“These interventions show the importance of sustained investment, effective partnerships and innovative financing in making homeownership more accessible to Nigerians,” he noted

He maintained that expanding access to affordable housing required coordinated efforts by government institutions, property developers and other stakeholders in the real estate sector.

The minister further called for sustained commitment to quality housing delivery, noting that developments designed around the needs of residents could contribute to stronger communities and improved living standards.

Idris, who previously served as chairman of APDC’s Board of Directors, congratulated the company on completing 20 years of operations, commending its management, staff and stakeholders for their contributions to its growth.

He expressed confidence that the company would build on its two decades of experience to strengthen its role in housing delivery and the development of Abuja.

The Minister was also presented with an award, by the APDC, in recognition of his service as former chairman of the company’s board.