Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Government has handed over 116 completed housing units under the National Housing Programme to the Benue State Government, in a move aimed at expanding access to affordable housing and strengthening collaboration with sub-national governments to address Nigeria’ s housing needs. This was contained in a statement signed by Badamasi S. Haiba, Fsca, mnipr, Director, Press,and Public Relations.
Performing the formal handover, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, PhD described the event as another milestone in the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering decent housing and improving the living conditions of Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The handover ceremony was held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the Government House, Makurdi, Benue State.
Represented by the Director, Public Buildings and Housing Development Department, QS Pemi Samuel Temitope, the Minister commended the administration of Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia for its sustained efforts towards improving the welfare of the people through investments in infrastructure and social development.
He noted that the State Government’s interventions demonstrate a clear understanding of the critical role housing plays in human development, economic growth, and social stability.
Darma explained ” housing remains one of the most fundamental needs of every society, as beyond providing shelter, it promotes human dignity, family stability, public health, security, and stronger communities”
The Minister also described the acquisition of the estate by the Benue State Government as a strategic and commendable decision that will further expand access to quality and affordable housing for citizens.
“Today’s ceremony is not merely the transfer of physical structures but a reflection of purposeful leadership, effective intergovernmental collaboration, and our shared commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians,” he stated.
Accordingly, he stated that the National Housing Programme was established as a strategic Federal Government intervention to reduce Nigeria’s housing deficit and is being implemented by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development across the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory.
He added that beyond providing affordable and accessible homes, the programme supports job creation, stimulates local economies, and promotes the use of locally sourced building materials.
On her part, the acting Head of Civil Service, Benue State, Dr Eunice Ogbeniyi who received the 116 housing units on behalf of the Governor, appreciated the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development for making the partnership with the State on housing provision realizable
She explained that Benue State Governor, His Excellency Rev Fr Hyncianth Alia has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the upliftment of the welfare of the civil servants and the citizens in the state by acquiring the houses, assuring that the houses will be effectively utilized for the purpose intended by the Governor.
The Housing Minister on the other hand expressed satisfaction with the decision of the Benue State Government to acquire the estate, noting that it reflects foresight and a deliberate effort to provide more citizens with access to safe and decent shelter.
He further acknowledged the State Government’s investments across critical sector, including infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and education, stressing that the acquisition reinforces the administration’s broader commitment to improving socio-economic outcomes for the people.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to working with State Governments and other stakeholders, he emphasized that partnerships remain essential to achieving sustainable urban development and ensuring that government interventions directly impact citizens.
Engr. Darma described the handover as a practical demonstration of what cooperation between the Federal and State Governments can achieve in building sustainable communities where Nigerians can live and thrive with dignity.
Expressing confidence in the capacity of the Benue State Government to effectively manage and maintain the estate, he stated that the project would contribute meaningfully to the State’s development objectives and encourage further investment in the housing sector.
He voiced hope that the estate would stand as a lasting symbol of partnership, progress, and collective commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians through the provision of decent and affordable housing.
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