By Precious Akutamadu
Gov. Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers has described the housing sector as a critical driver of economic growth, urging stronger innovation and collaboration to bridge the state’s housing deficit.
Fubara made the remark during the BusinessDay South-South Real Estate Exhibition and Investment Summit 2026, held in Port Harcourt, on Wednesday.
He said that his administration was ready to partner with stakeholders and innovators in the housing and urban development ecosystem to tackle housing shortages, create jobs and improve the living standards of residents of the state.
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dagogo Wokoma, described the theme of the summit, “Addressing Nigeria’s Housing Deficit with Innovative Solutions”, as apt.
He said that real estate remained a major catalyst for economic expansion, urban transformation and wealth creation, globally.
He said that the state recognised the sector’s potential as both an investment hub and a tool for addressing housing needs.
“Our administration is committed to creating an enabling environment for investors and stakeholders in the real estate ecosystem through policy reforms, infrastructure development, and stronger public-private partnerships,” he said.
Fubara urged participants at the summit to utilise the platform to share ideas, build networks and develop innovative solutions that would shape the future of real estate development in the state and country.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, represented by the Federal Head of Lands, Queen Tekai, said the ministry was working to create a more enabling environment to support housing development across Nigeria.
In a keynote address, Mustapha Njie, the Group Managing Director of TAF Africa Global and Managing Director of Greater TAF Nigeria Ltd, called for a forward-looking housing sector anchored on accessible financing, strong public-private partnerships and reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks in property acquisition.
Njie also advocated the development of new cities, including Greater TAF City in Nigeria and TAF City in The Gambia, as well as increased local production of building materials.
He further called for strategic urban planning, improved infrastructure in emerging areas and wider adoption of eco-friendly and smart city concepts. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
What do you think about this?
Drop your opinion in the comment section.
FOLLOW US & Share this with someone who needs to see this.
