The Federal Government has officially commenced its flagship Renewed Hope Agenda Housing Scheme in Calabar, Cross River State, following the successful acquisition and formal handover of 25 acres of land generously donated by the Cross River State Government in the Adiabo community.
During a visit to the Obong of Calabar, Rt Hon. Victor Udofia, Special Adviser to the President of the Senate and Contact Person to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, expressed profound gratitude to the Cross River State Government for their magnanimous donation and warm hospitality. He stated, “The project is deeply personal to me because Cross River State holds a special place in my heart, having served my NYSC in this State.”
Udofia reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that the housing scheme aligns with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to deliver sustainable and affordable housing solutions across Nigeria. He praised the proactive leadership of Governor Sen. Bassey Otu for swiftly approving the land, which he noted was critical for the smooth commencement of the project. Additionally, he commended Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong for his instrumental role in facilitating the siting of the scheme within Cross River State.
Okay.ng reports that contractors have already been awarded their letters of engagement, with mobilization to the site expected within two to three weeks pending the final disbursement of funds.
In a symbolic endorsement, the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, also thanked Governor Otu for the prompt land approval and praised the President of the Senate, whom he described as his “very good friend,” for his pivotal role in securing the project’s location in Calabar.
Representing the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Ahmed Dangiwa, the Federal Controller of Housing in Cross River State, Alfa Simeon, revealed that eight contractors have been engaged for the project. Four contractors will handle infrastructure development, including roads, electricity, and water, while the other four will focus on constructing residential units.
“The initial phase will include 120 housing units, comprising one-bedroom and two-bedroom flats designed to be expandable and affordable,” Simeon explained. He further emphasized, “The housing units are tailored to reduce costs for civil servants and average-income earners. We’ve structured the execution into two phases, but our strategy is to complete and hand over Phase One before moving to Phase Two, to avoid abandoned projects.”
Community leaders and residents have expressed optimism about the project and pledged their cooperation to ensure its success.
