By Hannatu Sulaiman Abba
The management of Qshelter limited has convened investors, partners, agents and other stakeholders in Kano State to strengthen collaboration aimed at expanding access to affordable housing and addressing the state’s growing housing needs under the Renewed Hope Citizens Estates
Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting in Kano, Alhaji Aminu Bindawa said the gathering was designed to showcase ongoing housing projects, attract investment and build partnerships that would help scale affordable housing delivery across the state and the wider northern region.
He said the company had completed more than 395 housing units under the first phase of its housing development project and had already commenced a second phase that will deliver over 700 additional units.
“We invited stakeholders to see what we have done, what we are currently doing and what we intend to do next. We cannot do it alone. We need investors, partners, agents and other stakeholders to collaborate with us and help expand access to housing across Kano and Northern Nigeria,” he said.
According to him, the completed housing units are equipped with supporting infrastructure and are ready for occupation, pending official commissioning and handover to beneficiaries.
Addressing concerns over affordability, Alhaji Aminu noted that rising construction costs, including the prices of cement, labour and other building materials, continue to pose challenges to housing development.
However, he said the company was leveraging mortgage financing arrangements to make home ownership more accessible to low- and middle-income earners.
In addition, He explained that prospective homeowners can secure a housing unit with a 10 per cent equity contribution, while the balance is financed through the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, allowing beneficiaries to repay through flexible instalment plans.
Furthermore , Qshelter disclosed that the company is also working with the Kano State Government on another housing initiative currently at the planning stage, adding that details would be made public once the project is finalised.
Explaining that the demand for housing remains high, with data from the company’s digital platform showing strong interest from prospective homeowners in Kano, Abuja and Lagos.
“We chose Kano because of the growing demand for housing and the opportunities available for development. The response from residents and investors has been encouraging,” he said.
Also speaking, Kano Executive Director of Planning and Development Arc. Bilkisu M Ibrahim described affordable housing as a key component of the state’s development agenda, noting that the government welcomes initiatives that support access to decent and affordable homes.
Arc. Bilkisu said the state government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for private sector participation in housing development through effective planning, infrastructure provision and strategic partnerships.
Indicating that, the expressed optimism that ongoing collaborations between government and private developers would contribute significantly to urban development, job creation and economic growth in Kano State over the coming years.