The Chairman of the Housing Committee of the Ogun State House of Assembly and lawmaker representing Obafemi/Owode State constituency, Damilola Soneye, on Wednesday called for stronger collaboration between the private sector and government to address the nation’s housing deficit.
Soneye particularly commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his significant investment in affordable housing, highlighting more than five new housing estates across Abeokuta, Sagamu, Ilaro, Ijebu Ode, Iperu, Kobape, and other locations in the state.
He emphasised that, given Nigeria’s rapidly growing population, private sector investment to complement government efforts in housing provision is commendable and should be actively encouraged.
The lawmaker made the remarks during the commissioning of a housing estate project in Bara, Orile Imo area of Obafemi/Owode Local Government, facilitated by High Chief Olakunle Olalekan, the Asiwaju of Orile Imo.
Recent figures from late 2023 and early 2024 estimate Nigeria’s housing deficit at around 28 million units, requiring roughly N21 trillion to bridge. The shortfall is largely attributed to population growth outpacing housing supply, with low- and middle-income households particularly affected due to high property costs and limited affordable options.
Soneye praised Abiodun’s efforts in ensuring convenient and secure living for residents.
“We are really excited to see what Chief Olakunle Olalekan is doing with this housing project. It aligns perfectly with Governor Abiodun’s vision for private sector collaboration to upgrade infrastructure and improve living standards,” he said.
He added, “It is well-known that the Abiodun-led administration has made significant strides in affordable housing with projects like Prince Court Estate, Phases 1 and 2 in Abeokuta, as well as estates in Kobape, Iperu, Ilaro, and Sagamu. I congratulate Chief Olakunle Olalekan for this bold initiative and urge other private individuals and corporate organisations to follow suit, supporting the government to better serve the people and advance development in our state and nation.”
Speaking to journalists during the unveiling of the housing project, Olakunle Olalekan expressed his readiness to commit further resources to developmental projects while thanking Governor Abiodun for creating an enabling environment that allows private individuals to share in the state’s developmental vision.
Coinciding with his birthday, the community leader also distributed cash grants and working tools—including sewing machines, hair dryers, and barbering equipment—to selected members of the community.
