The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has called on governments at all levels, the private sector and financial institutions to take urgent measures to make adequate and affordable housing accessible to Nigerians.
The National President of the institute, Tpl. Dr. Chime Ogbonna, made the call in a statement marking the 2026 World Habitat Day, observed on October 5 under the theme, “Adequate Housing for All.”
Ogbonna said the theme was particularly relevant to Nigeria, where millions of citizens still struggle to access decent and affordable accommodation.
He described housing as more than shelter, saying it was fundamental to human dignity, family stability, health, security and economic prosperity.
According to him, rising land prices, increasing costs of building materials, rapid urbanisation, inflation and limited access to affordable housing finance have continued to make home ownership and decent accommodation difficult for many Nigerians.
He noted that many people across Nigerian cities and communities had been forced to live in overcrowded conditions, informal settlements and slums.
Ogbonna said the situation should not be viewed merely as a housing problem, but as a broader development challenge with implications for public health, social inclusion and national productivity.
The NITP president called for a comprehensive review of existing housing policies and the reform of the Land Use Act to facilitate access to land for housing development.
He also urged the government to reduce the cost of building materials, strengthen mortgage financing for low-income earners and promote the use of affordable, locally produced construction materials.
Ogbonna further called for the conduct of a timely population census to provide accurate demographic data needed for effective housing planning and delivery.
He urged governments to provide incentives capable of attracting greater private-sector investment in affordable housing.
According to him, the success of a country should not be measured solely by the number of luxury estates constructed, but also by the number of citizens who can afford safe and decent homes.
“As we mark World Habitat Day 2026, let us renew our commitment to making adequate housing a reality for all Nigerians. The time for action is now,” he said.
Ogbonna added that coordinated efforts among governments, professionals, private investors, financial institutions and development partners could help bridge Nigeria’s housing deficit and promote inclusive communities.
He said such efforts would contribute to creating a future where Nigerians could live with dignity, security and hope.
World Habitat Day is observed annually to draw attention to the state of human settlements and the right of everyone to adequate shelter.