In an exciting development, the Nigerian government is gearing up to launch the Diaspora Mortgage Housing Scheme in February 2024, catering specifically to Nigerians living abroad. The announcement came from the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Dangiwa, who revealed that the scheme will target Nigerians in the United Kingdom, United States of America, and Canada.
The unveiling is scheduled for February 2024, and the anticipation was highlighted as the Minister hosted the Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and management staff in Abuja.
The Diaspora Mortgage Housing Scheme aims to tap into the financial contributions of approximately 20 million Nigerians living abroad who remit an average of over $24 billion annually. Recognizing the significant role these contributions play in supporting the Nigerian economy, the government is taking a proactive step to provide housing solutions for its diaspora community.
During the meeting, Minister Dangiwa emphasized, “The overall goal is to ensure that as our brothers and sisters sojourn abroad, they also have a decent shelter over here in Nigeria to call their home.” He further reiterated the commitment of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) to fulfill its tripartite mandate, which includes the Diaspora City Project in collaboration with NIDCOM (Nigerians in Diaspora Commission) and FCT (Federal Capital Territory).
The project, located at Maitama 2, spans over 675 hectares of land, as highlighted in the statement. Arch. Dangiwa’s commitment aligns with the government’s broader strategy to enhance housing options for Nigerians in the diaspora.
Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa commended the Minister’s dedication and participation in the launch of the Diaspora Mortgage Scheme, which was showcased during the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit. She also emphasized the growing enthusiasm among Nigerians abroad for both the Diaspora mortgage scheme and the forthcoming Diaspora smart city in Kabusa, Maitama, FCT.
This initiative not only aims to provide housing opportunities but also reflects the government’s recognition of the diaspora community’s importance in contributing to the nation’s prosperity.
