By Abasi Ita, Calabar
The Federal Government is set to begin construction on 250 new housing units in Calabar, Cross River State, as part of its ambitious Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.
This initiative aims to significantly reduce the nation’s housing deficit.
Mr. Ahmed Dangiwa, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, announced the project during a courtesy visit to the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V.
Represented by the Federal Controller of Housing in the state, Mr. Alfa Simeon, he explained that
Athe project will unfold in two phases, with each phase delivering 125 housing units within six months.
“The designs are inclusive, featuring one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units, all with provisions for future expansion.
“The uniqueness of this project lies in its expandable design,” Simeon explained. “We’ve made provisions so that a one-bedroom unit can be expanded to two, and two to three.
” This allows civil servants and other buyers to start with what they can afford and upgrade over time.”
Dr. Francis Ekpenyong, Head of the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, confirmed that the project, facilitated by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, has been awarded to eight contractors.
Four will concentrate on building the housing structures, while the remaining four will develop crucial infrastructure such as internal roads, water supply, electricity, and a police post.
Dr. Ekpenyong expressed gratitude to the Obong of Calabar and the local community for generously donating the 25-hectare site for the project, assuring them of full community engagement throughout the construction.
“This scheme is already being implemented in 12 states across the country,” he noted.
“Today, we are here to officially introduce the contractors to His Eminence and signal the commencement of work on this site.”
Mr. Michael Afolabi, one of the contractors, highlighted the significant economic benefits, estimating that the project will create no fewer than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs for local residents, including both skilled and unskilled labor.
. “This is a welcome initiative by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It will provide economic opportunities for the community and empower the youth during the construction phase,” Afolabi stated.
In response, the Obong of Calabar welcomed the project but urged the government not to sideline the community during implementation.
He also stressed the importance of adhering to the project timeline and ensuring high-quality construction. “I hope this does not become one of those projects abandoned halfway and later turned into a hideout for criminals,” the monarch cautioned.
“We expect standard housing units that will reflect positively on the community and the state at large.”