By DEJI ABDULWAHAB

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, says President Bola Tinubu’s administration has begun the construction of more than 10,000 housing units across 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Idris disclosed this on Friday in Abuja, at the 20th Anniversary Gala and Award Night of the Abuja Property Development Company (APDC) Ltd.

He said the move reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit and improving the living standards of citizens.

According to him, the Renewed Hope Agenda recognises housing as a critical driver of economic growth, social development and improved living conditions.

“Through the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates programme, the administration has advanced housing projects across the country, with more than 10,000 housing units underway across 14 states and the FCT,” he said.

The minister explained that the Federal Government had also introduced measures to expand access to mortgage financing and make homeownership more affordable for Nigerians.

He said the Ministry of Finance’s Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund had disbursed N140 billion to support 2,018 mortgages across 27 states as of August 2026.

Idris noted that the interventions demonstrated the importance of sustained investment, effective partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms in addressing the country’s housing challenges.

He stressed that improving access to decent and affordable housing needs collaboration among government institutions, property developers, financial institutions and other stakeholders in the real estate sector.

The minister urged property development organisations to uphold professionalism, promote responsible urban planning and prioritise quality in their projects.

He said developers must also understand the needs of the people their projects were designed to serve, noting that sustainable development should deliver tangible benefits to individuals, families and communities.

According to him, the long-term success of property development companies should be measured not only by the structures they build but also by the positive impact their projects have on society.

Idris said the APDC anniversary awards provided an opportunity to recognise the contributions of staff members and stakeholders whose dedication had supported the company’s growth over the years.

He commended their efforts and encouraged them to sustain the commitment, professionalism and high standards that had contributed to the company’s achievements.

The minister expressed optimism that APDC would build on its 20 years of experience, explore emerging opportunities and continue contributing meaningfully to the development of Abuja.

He congratulated the company on attaining the milestone and wished it continued growth and success, urging stakeholders in the property sector to support efforts to make housing more accessible to Nigerians. (NAN)