Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has strengthened collaboration with the federal government for the construction of a workers’ housing estate in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area.
During a meeting with the management of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, led by its Executive Director of Loans and Mortgage Services, Dr. Mohammed Sani Abdul, Governor Oborevwori formally presented a Certificate of Occupancy for the housing project. The gesture underscores his administration’s commitment to providing affordable housing for state workers and improving their welfare.
The land, spanning approximately 10.1 hectares in Core Area 2, Ibusa, has been earmarked for a housing scheme developed in partnership with the Federal Mortgage Bank, Nigeria Labour Congress, and Trade Union Congress. Although the Certificate of Occupancy had been ready since January 2024, administrative processes delayed its formal presentation. To facilitate the project, Governor Oborevwori waived statutory fees totaling about N200 million, making it easier for workers to access the homes.
“Many of our junior and middle-level workers spend a large part of their salaries on rent. This housing scheme is therefore vital,” the governor said. He appealed to the Federal Mortgage Bank to ensure timely completion of the project and to make it available to the workers it is intended for.
Governor Oborevwori also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for encouraging federal agencies like FMBN to partner with state governments. He pledged ongoing support to ensure the success of the housing initiative.
Dr. Abdul, in response, praised the governor for his efforts in infrastructural development across Delta State, particularly in Asaba and its surrounding areas. He urged local government councils to contribute to the National Housing Fund, enabling the bank to expand housing projects to grassroots communities.
Highlighting the bank’s mission, Dr. Abdul explained that the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, established over 32 years ago, is focused on addressing the nation’s housing deficit, estimated at 20 to 22 million units, through mortgage creation and construction loans. Currently, the bank has nine active housing projects in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and other regions, with plans to replicate similar initiatives in Delta State.
“With the Renewed Hope Mega Mini-City project spearheaded by the president, our goal is to provide affordable housing for Nigerians at all levels, especially those at the bottom of the pyramid. Delta State is central to this national plan, and we aim to make a lasting impact here,” Dr. Abdul said.
