The Federal Government’s flagship Renewed Hope Agenda Housing Scheme has officially commenced in Calabar, Cross River State, following the successful acquisition and formal handover of 25 acres of land generously donated in Adiabo community by the Cross River State Government

Speaking during a visit to the Obong of Calabar, Special Adviser to the President of the Senate and Contact Person to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Rt Hon. Victor Udofia expressed appreciation to the Cross River State Government for it magnanimous donation of land and warm hospitality.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the project aligns with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at delivering sustainable and affordable housing solutions across Nigeria.

He commended the proactive leadership of the Cross River State Governor, Sen. BasseyOtu, for ensuring the swift approval of land for the project, which he said was critical to the smooth commencement of work on site. Udofa also praised Senator AsuquoEkpenyong for his instrumental role in facilitating the siting of the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme in Cross River State.

He said “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 emphasized that contractors have been awarded their letters and mobilization to site is expected within the next two to three weeks, pending final fund disbursement.

In a symbolic show of royal endorsement, the Obong of Calabar, EdidemEkpoOkonAbasiOtu V thanked the Governor for the swift approval of land for the project. He also commended the President of the Senate, whom he described as his “very good friend,” for his critical role in securing the project’s siting in Calabar.

According to the Federal Controller of Housing in Cross River State, Alfa Simeon, who represented the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Ahmed Dangiwa, noted that the project has already been awarded to eight contractors.

“Four will handle infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and water, while the remaining four will focus on building residential units. The initial phase will comprise 120 housing units, including one-bedroom and two-bedroom flats, designed to be expandable at affordable rates”, he added.

“The housing units are tailored to reduce cost 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,” Simeon stated.

Community leaders and residents expressed optimism and pledged to cooperate with the Federal Government to ensure the success of the project.