The Nigerian House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to generate reliable data on the country’s housing deficit and take steps to improve access to affordable housing.
According to The PUNCH, this resolution was reached during Tuesday’s plenary session following a motion moved by Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo, the lawmaker representing Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State.
Ukpong-Udo emphasized the critical role of accurate data in planning and implementing government projects. “The housing sector in Nigeria faces significant challenges, including a lack of verifiable data for effective policy-making and execution,” he said.
Citing a report by the World Population Review, he pointed out that over 24 million Nigerians are homeless, with many lacking access to basic social amenities.
“Nigeria ranks among the top 10 countries globally with the highest homeless populations, with over 24 million people in need of proper shelter,” he stated, adding that other countries facing similar issues include Pakistan, Egypt, Syria, and Congo.
The House expressed concern over the reliance on World Bank reports for housing data, noting the importance of creating homegrown data solutions for national development.
“A nation can only grow and achieve stability when it has reliable housing data and a functional housing market that ensures decent shelter for its citizens,” Ukpong-Udo added.
In response to the motion, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas directed the Committee on Housing and Habitat to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. The committee is tasked with addressing the lack of scientific and verifiable housing data and ensuring improved access to affordable and decent homes for Nigerians.
