According to the report from the Vanguard, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas highlighted the urgent need to address the 17 million housing unit deficit in Nigeria's urban centers, particularly in the North, by employing innovative and sustainable solutions.
He emphasized the importance of sustainable housing development as a fundamental human right that drives sustainable development and strengthens social unity.
He argued that sustainable housing development goes beyond constructing buildings, and should focus on establishing environmentally friendly, socially inclusive, and economically feasible communities.
He supported the theme of the exhibition, "Kaduna Sustainable Housing Development: A Model for Northern Housing," as a relevant and essential approach to tackling the housing deficit in Northern Nigeria.
He said, "Available data shows that Nigeria has a housing deficit of 17 million housing units in urban centres and Northern Nigeria has the largest share of this deficit. This makes it imperative for us to find innovative and sustainable means of closing this huge gap in the provision of shelter to our people. The theme of this exhibition, “Kaduna Sustainable Housing Development: A Model for Northern Housing” resonates deeply with the challenges we face today particularly in Northern Nigeria.
The provision of adequate housing is not just a basic human need but a fundamental right that underpins sustainable development and social cohesion. Sustainable housing development is not just about constructing buildings; it encompasses creating communities that are environmentally friendly, socially inclusive, and economically viable."