The Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) has strongly endorsed the recently implemented Nigeria-First procurement policy, recognizing its potential to significantly impact the affordable housing sector. This policy, championed by President Tinubu’s administration, prioritizes the procurement of Nigerian-made goods and services by all government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The AIHS views this policy as a pivotal step towards achieving affordable housing goals, aligning perfectly with their long-standing advocacy for increased local content in housing development. By promoting the use of indigenous building materials and local expertise, the Nigeria-First policy directly addresses the escalating costs that have historically hindered access to affordable housing for many Nigerians.
The AIHS coordinator, Festus Adebayo, emphasized the organization’s commitment to collaborating with the government to ensure the policy’s effective implementation. They are prepared to offer technical expertise, facilitate knowledge sharing, and actively advocate for policies that encourage the adoption of locally sourced building materials and technologies. The AIHS firmly believes that leveraging local resources is not only economically prudent but also environmentally sustainable, creating a win-win situation for both the housing market and the Nigerian economy. The organization also stresses the importance of government support for local manufacturers and suppliers to maximize the policy’s impact and ensure its long-term success.
The Nigeria-First procurement policy’s focus on local content holds immense potential for stimulating local industries, fostering skill development, and reducing dependence on expensive imported materials. The ripple effects of this policy are expected to extend beyond the housing sector, contributing to broader economic growth and creating more job opportunities for Nigerians. By prioritizing local manufacturers and suppliers, the policy is poised to revitalize the construction industry, creating a more robust and self-sufficient sector less reliant on external dependencies. This shift towards local resources not only reduces construction costs but also strengthens the national economy, creating a more sustainable and resilient ecosystem.
One of the key benefits of utilizing indigenous materials is the substantial reduction in construction costs, making homeownership a more attainable dream for a larger segment of the population. Materials like compressed earth blocks, locally sourced timber, cement, steel, and other construction supplies offer cost-effective alternatives to imported materials, without compromising quality and durability. This approach also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation and manufacturing processes, fostering a more environmentally conscious construction industry. By encouraging the use of locally sourced materials, the policy aims to create a greener and more sustainable future for the housing sector.
The AIHS envisions this policy playing a crucial role in addressing Nigeria’s significant housing deficit, a challenge that has plagued the nation for years. By making housing more affordable and accessible, the policy aims to bridge the housing gap and provide decent living conditions for a greater number of Nigerians. The increased demand for locally sourced materials will, in turn, stimulate economic activity and generate employment opportunities throughout the supply chain, from raw material extraction to manufacturing and construction. This multifaceted approach is expected to have a positive ripple effect, contributing to overall economic growth and improving the lives of countless Nigerians.
In conclusion, the AIHS sees the Nigeria-First procurement policy as a transformative initiative with the potential to revolutionize the affordable housing landscape in Nigeria. By prioritizing local content, stimulating local industries, and creating a more sustainable and affordable housing market, this policy is poised to have a profound and lasting impact on the Nigerian economy and the lives of its citizens. The AIHS is committed to working in partnership with the government to ensure its successful implementation and maximize its benefits for all stakeholders, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for the Nigerian housing sector. This collaboration is essential to achieving the shared goal of providing decent and affordable housing for all Nigerians.
