Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Arc. Ibrahim Bunu has lauded the organizers of 13th Abuja International Housing Show (AIHS) over its commitment to affordable home ownership opportunities in Nigeria.
Ibrahim Bunu was the Chairman of Occasion at the opening ceremony of Africa’s biggest housing and construction event on Tuesday at International Conference Center, Abuja.
He praised the tenacity and ambition of the organizers and that the show’s ability to assemble local and international stakeholders of repute to deliberate on the way forward for this critical sub-sectors of the economy is no mean feat.
He said, “I am aware that recommendations from previous shows have greatly influenced housing legislations, innovations, and has served as a platform to call relevant stakeholders to action.
“Importantly too, the show has become a rallying point for public and private sector professionals to network, exchange ideas and fashion new ways to collaborate towards the enhancement of housing availability and affordability. The show has been a significant player in the promotion housing affordability and we give them credit for their commitment to the reduction of our country’s huge housing deficit.
“This year’s theme which focuses on driving sustainable housing finance models in the midst of global uncertainties cannot be more appropriate. The global housing market including Nigeria’s is in desperate need of new ideas, and if you like, alternatives to financing housing development. We are here to listen and learn from one another about how to face one of our most critical challenges – finance.
“The show has invited a strong panel of speakers and chief executives with the capacity to aid us in breaking the mould. As obtainable in most economies, I believe that housing should be one of the key contributors to Nigeria’s GDP. I am confident that this event will demystify the barriers and suggest the most sustainable and practical approaches to a robust housing sector that not only provides shelter, but jobs and economic opportunities.”
He encouraged Nigerians to maximise the opportunities at the event which includes learning, networking, exhibition, making of sales, and importantly, affordable home ownership.
This year’s show has over 400 exhibitors with multiple affordable home ownership schemes for Nigerians.
By Ojonugwa Felix Ugboja
