The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for enhanced collaboration with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) as it prepares to implement its newly approved National Urban Development Policy (NUDP). The policy, recently passed by the Federal Executive Council, is set to serve as a strategic framework for guiding urban growth in alignment with international standards, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the New Urban Agenda, and climate change commitments.
Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, emphasized the need for sustained partnership and technical support from UN-Habitat during a meeting with Mr. Mathias Spaliviero, Senior Human Settlement Officer at the agency. Dangiwa praised UN-Habitat’s role in the policy review process and underscored the importance of transitioning from formulation to implementation.
“You came and did a wonderful presentation. For us, it has opened our eyes because, as you are aware, Nigeria is undergoing a transformation in the housing and urban development sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Dangiwa stated.
Describing the presentation as “eye-opening and inspiring,” Dangiwa noted that it reinforced the government’s commitment to urban renewal and inclusive development. He highlighted ongoing initiatives, such as the development of Renewed Hope Cities, Estates, and Social Housing projects, aimed at ensuring equitable access to housing across all income levels.
The minister also discussed the National Slum Upgrade and Urban Renewal Programme, which targets vulnerable urban communities. He expressed particular admiration for UN-Habitat’s innovative use of streets as a tool for urban transformation in slums, stating, “It shows that transforming a cluster of slums can transform an entire city.”
Dangiwa stressed that the real challenge lies in implementing the NUDP effectively and appealed for expanded institutional and technical support from UN-Habitat. “We need the right expertise and institutional support to implement this policy successfully. We will also require your help in recommending experts who can work with the ministry in translating it into tangible, measurable outputs at both federal and state levels,” he said.
To ensure widespread adoption, the ministry plans to disseminate the policy to state governments and key stakeholders, including ministries of works and environment, urging its domestication nationwide. Additionally, Dangiwa revealed a strategic partnership with the World Bank on a National Land Registration, Documentation, and Titling Programme to address issues surrounding untitled land, which affects over 90% of land in Nigeria.
He welcomed UN-Habitat’s proposed Strategic Action Plan on land governance and expressed interest in pilot programs, capacity building, and technical assistance in select states. In reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment, Dangiwa pledged to clear all outstanding financial obligations to UN-Habitat.
Responding, Mathias Spaliviero highlighted the critical elements required for successful slum upgrading initiatives, including proper financial planning, effective regulations, and robust design frameworks. He reiterated UN-Habitat’s readiness to support Nigeria’s urban development goals through collaboration and innovation.
The meeting underscores Nigeria’s determination to leverage global partnerships in addressing its urbanization challenges and achieving sustainable, inclusive growth under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
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