The Yobe State Government has formally taken over 176 housing units from the Federal Government at the cost of over ₦2 billion, marking a major step towards reducing the state’s housing deficit and improving access to affordable homes for citizens.
The houses were officially handed over to Governor Mai Mala Buni, CON, by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, represented by Mathius Iliya Kastula, in a brief ceremony held at the Maisandari Housing Estate in Damaturu, the state capital.
Governor Buni, who was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Ahmad Buba, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting approval for the transfer of the estate to Yobe State. He said the initiative reflects the President’s commitment to supporting states in addressing critical developmental needs.
“This project is not just about buildings, but about restoring dignity to our people by giving them access to affordable and decent shelter,” Governor Buni stated.
In their remarks, both the Minister of Housing and Urban Development and the State Controller of Housing, Muazu Abubakar, commended Governor Buni for his foresight in purchasing the property for the benefit of Yobe citizens.
They described the
acquisition as a practical demonstration of his administration’s determination to improve the welfare of the people, particularly civil servants and low-income earners.
Ahmad Buba explained that out of the 208 housing units built by the Federal Government, Yobe State successfully purchased 176, while plans are underway to complete and rehabilitate the remaining 32 uncompleted units to ensure they meet acceptable standards before allocation.
He added that the acquisition would not only reduce the housing deficit but also ease pressure on urban centers, stabilize rent costs, create jobs through rehabilitation and maintenance, and stimulate growth in adjoining neighborhoods.
The official takeover of the Maisandari Housing Estate is regarded as a turning point in Governor Buni’s drive to provide safe, affordable, and sustainable housing for the people of Yobe State.
