The Association of Housing Corporations of Nigeria has urged housing agencies to act quickly or risk missing out on major opportunities under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Housing Agenda.
At a strategic session in Abuja, AHCN President, Eno Obongha, emphasized that the new housing programme, spearheaded by Minister Ahmed Dangiwa, offers “low-hanging fruits” that corporations must seize.
“Several housing programmes initiated by previous administrations had passed us by without our participation; the Renewed Hope Programme could pass away again if conscious steps are not taken,” Obonga said.
He emphasized that the Federal Government’s housing initiative presents a crucial opportunity for state housing corporations to contribute meaningfully to the delivery of affordable homes for Nigerians.
However, he warned that if these corporations fail to reform and reposition themselves, they risk being sidelined in the process.
“Some of our members have not constructed any building in the last 10 years and have become liabilities to their state governments,” he stated.
Obonga criticized the practice of merging state housing corporations with ministries of land and housing, describing it as a violation of the National Housing Policy.
“Housing corporations are creations of law with specific mandates. They should not be treated as mere departments,” he insisted.
Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of AHCN, Toye Eniola, noted that many housing corporations are held back by outdated practices and a lack of responsiveness to global trends and innovations.
“Some are still using manual typewriters, and most have no online presence; only about 10 of the 50 member corporations have functional websites. There is a ‘slave spirit’ mentality among housing corporations, where staff depend solely on government funding and show little drive for innovation.
“We must move from discussions to tangible actions. Transformation and a winning attitude are non-negotiable,” he urged.
Both leaders urged immediate action, calling on housing corporations to modernize their operations, leverage technology, and adopt a more business-driven approach.
