In light of the recent wave of demolitions across Nigeria, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), a report from the HipCity Innovation Centre has highlighted a pressing need for 20 million housing units to address the existing deficit.
The report emphasizes that eviction and demolition should only be considered as a last resort, especially if temporary housing solutions are not made available for those affected.
During the launch of an app designed to monitor demolitions and their underlying causes in Abuja, Executive Director Bassey Bassey revealed that over 1,000 homes have been demolished nationwide to date.
Bassey pointed out that the Federal Government’s low-cost housing unit, priced at N39 million, is unaffordable for most civil servants. He stated, “Nigeria faces a housing deficit of approximately 20 million units. Each house demolished pushes more citizens into despair, poverty, and displacement.”
He further explained, “Losing a home disrupts every aspect of life. Individuals may struggle to reach their workplaces, and children may be forced out of school. When the government conducts demolitions, it often fails to provide alternatives. Are there truly low-cost housing options available? What solutions are being offered to those affected?”
Bassey criticized the notion of low-cost housing, asserting that the current administration’s renewed hope scheme lists the cheapest option at around N39 million, which is beyond the means of many Nigerians.
“If we cannot provide adequate housing, eviction and demolition should be the last measures taken to address accommodation needs,” he added.
While there is no comprehensive data on the number of demolitions in Abuja, some organizations have conducted research from 2003 to 2024, revealing that over 1,000 homes in 300 communities have faced eviction or demolition.
Beyond the evictions, many individuals across Nigeria have experienced similar demolitions. The new web reporting and tracking system aims to shed light on the motivations behind these actions.
“The law clearly outlines the procedures for eviction and the necessary steps prior to demolition. Our goal is to track trends and motivations related to eviction and demolition in Abuja and throughout the country,” Bassey explained. “Documenting this information will provide insights that can help us engage with the government, especially given the existing housing deficit.”
In addition, Bassey introduced the Know Your Area Council (KYAC) initiative, which seeks to strengthen the connection between local councils and citizens. This initiative will equip FCT residents with the information needed to hold their elected officials accountable, advocate for essential services, and evaluate the impact of council projects.
KYAC will produce and distribute performance scorecards for council chairpersons and members, assess the effects of council initiatives on local communities, and create platforms for council leaders to report on their activities. Furthermore, KYAC will document the history, challenges, and successes of local councils while promoting civic engagement among potential candidates for the 2026 council elections.
