A group, HipCity Innovation Centre has urged the government to prioritise a review of the Abuja Masterplan in response to a severe shortage of affordable housing, especially as it affects the urban poor and lower-middle class.
With the city’s population far surpassing initial estimates, the executive director of HipCity Innovation Centre, Bassey Bassey who spoke with LEADERSHIP Weekend, emphasized the gap between housing supply and affordability.
He underscored the need to address the issue of “informality” within the masterplan.
Bassey stressed that the Abuja Masterplan was long overdue for a holistic review, echoing calls for the government to convene stakeholders’ meeting promptly for this purpose.
He pointed out that while some argue that there is sufficient housing supply in Abuja, the crucial question remains: who is this housing supply intended for?
“It’s time to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality in Abuja. By embracing adaptability and inclusiveness, the Renewed Hope Administration can pave the way for a fairer and more prosperous future for all Abuja residents,” he stated.
Bassey asserted that every resident, irrespective of socioeconomic status, should have access to decent housing and basic amenities.