The new Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development’s mission to reclaim Kano State for the All Progressives Congress (APC) is concerning, given the pressing challenges in Nigeria’s housing sector.
Development Diaries reports that the minister, Yusuf Ata, is among the seven ministers President Bola Tinubu appointed in his recent cabinet reshuffle.
The minister’s statement does not reflect any plans to make a positive impact on Nigeria’s housing sector.
Nigeria is currently grappling with a housing deficit estimated at over 20 million units, which affects millions of citizens, especially in urban areas.
This shortage has led to increased rent costs, overcrowded living conditions, and a surge in informal settlements. The country urgently needs a focused and comprehensive approach to addressing these issues, and the housing ministry plays a pivotal role in this endeavour.
According to the 2024 World Population Review, Nigeria has approximately 4.5 million people who are considered homeless, with many more not having appropriate access to a proper dwelling that has access to some of the most basic services.
Ata’s focus on political maneuvering rather than addressing the critical housing needs of Nigerians could divert attention away from the urgent task of ensuring affordable and accessible housing for the populace.
As the junior minister responsible for housing and urban development, his primary obligation should be to assist the minister, Ahmed Dangiwa, in tackling the housing crisis, which includes ensuring the construction of affordable homes, promoting policies that encourage private sector investments, and improving access to housing finance.
The current state of housing in Nigeria requires not just words but strategic action to alleviate the plight of low and middle-income citizens who continue to face difficulties securing decent housing.
It is also worth emphasising that public office should not be treated as a political tool for party dominance. Ata’s statement on using his ministerial position to ‘capture’ Kano State for the APC raises concerns about whether the ministry’s resources and influence could be misappropriated for political gains rather than public service.
The housing sector needs leadership that prioritises the needs of all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliations, especially at a time when the country is facing economic hardships and rising poverty levels.
Development Diaries calls on the minister to prioritise the nation’s housing needs over political ambitions, ensuring that his tenure leaves a legacy of positive change rather than political division.
