the Lagos State government has promised to deliver the ongoing 21 housing schemes on schedule, to bridge the housing deficit and provide affordable houses for residents.
Commissioner for Housing Moruf Akinderu-Fatai addressed reporters yesterday as part of activities to mark Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second year in office.
He said the projects were being done through budgetary allocation and joint ventures in parts of the state, adding that four are ready for opening at Odo Onosa Ayandelu Agbowa, Magodo/Omole, Gbagada and Ibeshe.
The commissioner said the homes were being provided for low and high income earners to ensure the government’s decision to provide affordable and accessible homes for all.
He said: “Based on the all-inclusive stance of the Sanwo-Olu administration, there are completed and ongoing projects in all parts of the state, and all categories of residents have the opportunity of accessing the housing provision.”
Akinderu-Fatai said 14 housing schemes had been completed and delivered in two years.
He listed some of the schemes to include Lateef Jakande Gardens (Igando), Lagos State Affordable Public Housing Scheme (Idale Badagry), LAGOSHOMS (Lekki Phase 2), Babatunde Raji Fashola Estate, Courtland Villas (Igbokushu), among others.
He said four are waiting to be opened at Odo Onosa Ayandelu, Agbowa, Magodo/Omole, Gbagada and Ibeshe.
On the strategies to tackle the deficit, Akinderu-Fatai said the state is engaging multinational development partners for the construction of mass housing estates.
He appealed to the private sector developers to partner the government in the provision of more homes for the residents.
“The task of bridging the housing gap in Lagos is great, hence the private sector’s participation is required to reduce the hardship faced by the people in their quest for decent shelter,” the commissioner added.
To further enhance accessibility and affordability of the homes, Akinderu-Fatai said the Lagos Mortgage Board has strengthened the ‘Rent to Own’ policy by ensuring that many residents are on the home ownership ladder.
He said the scheme, which targets first time home owners, has made it possible for many Lagosians to achieve their dream of home ownership.
Added he: “It gladdens the heart that there are intense construction activities at many housing schemes all over the state, revitalising the housing delivery value chain. The fact that the construction sites are active means economic engagement for hundreds of workers, artisans, suppliers and contractors. This brings a vibrancy that increases the economic resilience of the people.”
(Nation)
