Housing development has been identified as a critical component that would boost the nation’s economy for mass job opportunities for youths in the country.
This was the submission of Mr Wasiu Akewusola, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Housing, at the 10th meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development which was held at Ikeja, Lagos State.
The theme of the annual programme was: “Housing Development as a Catalyst for Job Creation, Social Inclusion and Economic Development”.
Akewusola said that the meeting which had in attendance built environment stakeholders from states and federal agencies, as well as the private sector, would help evolve strategies towards bridging the infrastructure gap nationwide.
“Over last year, we have had different challenges, especially with the pandemic so it is important that we come up with ways to help in boosting the economy and providing employment.
“Housing development is second to none in calibrating both individual and the national economy as it helps in stimulating the economy.
“Housing can help in creating jobs as the process in building would serve as a spring ball in providing labour for several people involved and this in turn, would develop the economy.
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“We are committed to ensuring that we improve the lives of everyone and this meeting would help in achieving that,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary appealed for synergy between agencies and organisations to achieve greater results.
“All organisations must ensure that they work together as a unit so things can go smoothly with little or no hindrance when it comes to carrying out projects under their supervision,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr Olajide Ode-Martins, Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing said that the meeting would proffer solutions to long-standing issues and the recommendations needed.
“Long-lasting solutions would be provided so as to get long-lasting results,” he said.
Mr Augustin Okwudiafor, an environmental expert, said that building materials should be sourced from accredited distributors to guarantee quality and durable construction to avert building collapse.
“The use of substandard materials in building is usually gotten from unauthorized distributors, so we must join hands and prevent this from happening,” he said.
Miss Edimam Okodi-Iyah, Advisor, Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP) advised Nigerians to use environment friendly materials in building houses to conserve energy, water, and reduce carbon footprints for healthier living.
“The regular blocks used in constructing buildings are strong but they have the tendency to retain heat thereby making the building hot.
“Using the right building materials would help in living in a more conducive environment and there would be less need for air conditioners so we advise people to always use environmentally friendly materials during construction,” she said.