The Federal Government has unveiled plans to construct 10,000 housing units under the Renewed Hope Medic Cities initiative.
The project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development in collaboration with the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), is aimed at improving the welfare of healthcare professionals and boosting productivity in the health sector.
The Minister of Housing, Ahmed Dangiwa, announced this during a meeting with the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) in Abuja.
He emphasised that the well-being of medical workers, including access to affordable and decent housing, is a priority under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Housing is critical to productivity, stability, and quality of life. Many healthcare workers face difficulties securing accommodation, especially in urban centers where medical facilities are concentrated. This initiative underscores our commitment to creating a more conducive environment for them,” Dangiwa said.
The Renewed Hope Medic Cities will be part of the broader Renewed Hope Housing Programme, which currently has 10,112 housing units under construction in 14 locations nationwide.
These include 3,112 units in Karsana, Abuja; 2,000 units in Lagos; and 2,000 units in Kano. Additionally, 12 Renewed Hope Estates of 250 units each are underway in 12 states, with plans to expand to the remaining 18 states.
Dangiwa outlined flexible ownership options for healthcare workers, including up to 30-year National Housing Fund (NHF) mortgage loans, rent-to-own schemes, installment payments, and outright purchase. He also noted that the Ministry has launched an online portal (renewedhopehomes.fmhud.gov.ng) to simplify the application process.
According to Dangiwa: “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to uplifting the living standards of healthcare workers, who are national heroes dedicating their lives to saving others.”
NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, commended the government’s commitment to the welfare of medical professionals and proposed a pilot project of 1,000 housing units in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He stressed the importance of providing accommodation within hospital premises to ensure timely emergency responses and prevent further brain drain in the medical sector.
(The Nation)
