Gov. Namadi flags off new phase of affordable housing, launches artisan training for 135 youths
As part of his administration’s drive to expand access to decent and affordable homes across Jigawa State, Gov. Umar Namadi has flagged off a new phase of housing projects under the state’s housing authority.
The event, held on Thursday in Dutse, the state capital, also featured the launch of an artisan skills training programme for 135 youths drawn from the 27 Local Government Areas of of the state.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Namadi recalled that the State began its ambitious housing programme about two years ago, saying that significant progress has been achieved so far.
“Most of us will recall that it was almost two years ago, on Saturday, 20th January 2024, that we held the Foundation-stone Laying Ceremony for the First Phase of our Housing Programme across various locations in Jigawa State. As of today, almost 1,050 of the targeted 1,500 Housing Units have been completed, with the third phase to be launched this year, in sha Allah,’ he said.
The governor described the new initiative as part of a deliberate strategy to reposition the Jigawa State Housing Authority into a viable and self-sustaining institution capable of delivering affordable housing to civil servants and the wider public.
“Through this component, we aimed to transform and reposition the Jigawa State Housing Authority into a financially self-sustaining, state-owned enterprise that can effectively fulfil its mandate of providing quality, affordable housing for our people.”
He disclosed that the State Government had provided an investment fund of ₦2 billion to enable the Housing Authority to commence the programme, expressing confidence that strengthening the Authority’s capacity would accelerate progress in delivering affordable homes throughout the State.
Governor Namadi emphasized that the initiative aligns with Goal 9 of his administration’s 12-Point Agenda, which prioritizes urban infrastructure development, urban renewal, and expansion of affordable housing projects.
Commending the Ministry of Lands and the State Housing Authority, the governor stated that the foundation laying of 52 two- and three-bedroom housing units in Dutse marks a new vista for the Authority.
“To realise this ambition, the Housing Authority must manage the investment fund not only with transparency and efficiency, but also with a focus on accelerating access to affordable housing and ensuring the funds yield strong returns on investment.”
He further urged the Authority to explore public-private partnerships and adopt innovative technologies that could reduce construction costs and improve affordability, stressing that this dual approach would safeguard sustainability while ensuring that benefits reach the intended communities.
Beyond housing delivery, Governor Namadi underlined the significance of youth empowerment through skills development, expressing satisfaction that the Housing Authority had introduced a practical artisan training programme designed to equip young people with essential construction skills.
“Today, as we launch the construction of these 52 housing units, we are also marking the commencement of an artisan skills training program for 135 youths selected from all twenty-seven Local Government Areas in Jigawa State. This initiative is designed to provide young people with valuable construction skills, foster job creation, and encourage local participation in the building industry.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the governor assured the people of Jigawa State of sustained investment in housing development, youth empowerment, and sustainable urban growth.
“Let me reassure the people of Jigawa State that our administration remains steadfast in its commitment to investing in housing development, empowering our youth, and fostering sustainable urban growth.”
The governor thereafter officially launched the artisan skills training programme and laid the foundation for the construction of the 52 new housing units.
“These initiatives will play a vital role in advancing our vision for a more prosperous and inclusive Jigawa State,” he declared.
