The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has expressed strong support for the proposed ‘FCT NUJ Journalists’ Village’ in Abuja, a housing scheme planned by the Federal Capital Territory Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists.
During a visit by the NUJ FCT leadership, led by Chairperson Grace Ike, Dangiwa commended journalists for their crucial role in the country and assured them they would be included in the government’s housing plans.
Dangiwa, alongside the Minister of State, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, and senior directors of the ministry, referred to journalists as key partners, stating, “Your voices matter. You help explain government policies to the public and hold us accountable, something we value greatly.”
The Minister assured that the government would support the creation of a Journalists’ Village through a cooperative housing scheme, he however, emphasized that the initial step is for the NUJ to obtain a titled plot of land.
“Once you get a titled land and a housing design in place, bring it to us,” Through the FMBN, we’ll help build affordable homes for journalists, which can be paid for over about 30 years.”
In additon, he stated that this plan is part of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Housing Programme, which aims to tackle Nigeria’s housing shortage, create jobs, and improve the quality of life.
Earlier, Grace Ike thanked the Minister and President Tinubu for their commitment to building 50,000 new homes for the poor.
She said, “Housing is not just shelter – it’s dignity and a base for national growth. Journalists, as defenders of democracy, must not be left out.”
She called on the Minister to support infrastructure for NUJ, including help completing the NUJ Pentagon building and building a modern hall for over 2,000 journalists.
“Support partnerships in Urban Renewal, with journalists playing a bigger role as both reporters and community members.
“Access to Housing Finance, ensuring journalists can benefit from mortgage schemes, and training to help them understand housing policies and finance”.
Ike concluded by assuring the Minister of the NUJ’s ongoing support, not only in reporting on government actions but also in working closely for the country progress.
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