The Federal Government’s 250-housing unit project in Akwa Ibom State is expected to generate over 6,500 jobs in various trades.
According to The PUNCH, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa made this known while speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony in Uyo.
Dangiwa emphasized the significant value chain effect of construction work, predicting a positive economic impact on the state.
“Statistics show that the construction of one housing unit creates an average of 25 direct and indirect jobs. So, for these 250 housing units in Akwa Ibom, we hope to create jobs for over 6,500 people in various trades, from professionals like architects, civil engineers, and mechanical engineers to masons, plumbers, tilers, electricians, and labourers.
“We have seen unskilled workers at sites earning as much as N35,000 per week, at an average of N5,000 per day. This amounts to about N140,000 per month. This is in addition to the economic activities, including those selling food, supplying blocks, and providing building materials.
“The value chain effect of construction work on this site is significant and creates a positive economic impact,” Dangiwa said.
The project, part of the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates program launched by President Bola Tinubu, aims to deliver over 20,000 housing units in phase 1, creating jobs and boosting economic development. Governor Umo Eno appreciated the consideration of Akwa Ibom as the first beneficiary of the project, which is expected to unlock the potential of housing development in the state.
