In a strategic move to enhance housing accessibility for members of staff, a delegation from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) met with the Honourable Minister for Housing, Architect Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at his office in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, the delegation included the Founding Director of the UNILAG Centre for Housing and Sustainable Development, Prof. Timothy Nubi, and the Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Matthew Ilori. Their discussions centered on how UNILAG staff could benefit from the Federal Government’s housing programme in Lagos State.
Describing the visit as both timely and fruitful, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that plans are underway to mobilize the UNILAG community for active participation in the programme. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader agenda of increasing homeownership among public sector employees and addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit.
Later in the day, the UNILAG team took their advocacy to a wider audience by appearing on Housing TV, an Abuja-based station, to discuss Nigeria’s pressing housing challenges. They were joined by Barr. Festus Adebayo, a member of the Advisory Board of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria, Lagos Chapter.
The discussion focused on two critical areas: utilizing locally sourced materials and empowering young Nigerians to engage in real estate development.
The panel emphasized the importance of reducing housing costs by prioritizing indigenous materials, thereby making homeownership more affordable for Nigerians. They also shared strategies to encourage and empower young Nigerians to engage in real estate development as a means to boosting innovation and economic growth within the sector.
Reflecting on the discussions, the delegation expressed optimism that the insights shared would translate into meaningful policies and initiatives as the University of Lagos remains committed to leveraging its research and expertise to support national development in the housing sector.
