The project was launched by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. It is designed to help civil servants own affordable homes and also improve welfare and productivity in the public service.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Darma, said the estate is part of a larger housing programme being carried out in the 36 states and the FCT.
Darma said government is committed to providing quality and affordable housing for civil servants. He directed contractors and supervisors to follow approved standards and deliver the project on time.
The minister also listed other housing projects expected before May 2027. They include 132 rent-to-own houses, 252 units in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, 300 units in Abuja, 2,800 units in Karsana, Abuja, 1,500 units in September, and 2,129 units in December.
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, described the 250-unit estate as a major step to improve the welfare of federal workers.
According to her, housing goes beyond buildings. “Homeownership gives civil servants security, peace of mind, and a lasting reward for years of service,” she said.
Walson-Jack also reminded workers of the government’s ₦10 billion annual housing loan scheme. The loan is provided through the Federal Mortgage Bank and accessed via the Federal Government Staff Housing Loans Board.
She disclosed that 305 housing units have already been delivered under the Federal Integrated Staff Housing Programme. More than 40,000 beneficiaries have also accessed housing loans through the Staff Housing Loans Board.
However, she cautioned that civil servants need completed houses, not just promises or ceremonies. She urged authorities to ensure the houses are completed quickly and allocated to qualified beneficiaries.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Shuaib Belgore, also charged contractors to focus on proper supervision, quality work, and timely delivery.
The Gwagwalada project is part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Housing Programme. The programme covers housing for different income groups, including civil servants, teachers, healthcare workers, traders and artisans.
