FG begins 250-unit civil servants’ estate in Abuja

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…Minister says project reflects Tinubu’s commitment to workers’ welfare

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By John Alechenu

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ABUJA — The Federal Government has commenced the construction of the Renewed Hope Civil Service Estate at Dukpa, Gwagwalada, Abuja, with a target of delivering 250 housing units for federal civil servants within six months.

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The groundbreaking ceremony for the project was held on Wednesday in honour of the retiring Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.

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Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Darma, described the project as a demonstration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, particularly civil servants.

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Darma said the initiative was part of the administration’s efforts to address the country’s housing deficit and improve the living conditions of public servants.

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“This event is a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, especially civil servants who form the backbone of government,” he said.

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The minister added that providing decent and affordable accommodation for civil servants would enhance their productivity and restore dignity to public service.

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Speaking at the ceremony, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Shuaib Belgore, said the estate would comprise two- and three-bedroom bungalows designed specifically for federal civil servants.

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He described the project as a targeted intervention aimed at addressing the housing needs of a critical segment of the nation’s workforce.

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“Today’s groundbreaking ceremony is a significant occasion for the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as we commence the development of the Renewed Hope Civil Service Estate at Dukpa, Gwagwalada.

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“It is a targeted intervention that responds to the housing needs of an important segment of our national workforce. Its commencement today is a practical step towards providing an opportunity for beneficiaries to access decent accommodation,” Belgore said.

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He noted that the Federal Civil Service played a central role in the functioning of government, as civil servants provide the institutional framework through which public policies are developed, implemented and sustained.

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According to him, the welfare of civil servants is closely linked to their effectiveness and productivity.

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“A decent home provides stability and security for individuals and families and contributes to a more settled and productive workforce,” he said.

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Belgore added that the project was significant not only as a housing initiative but also because of its potential impact on the welfare and productivity of federal workers.

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He charged the contractors handling the project to ensure that the government’s commitment was translated into a completed estate within the stipulated timeframe.

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“As we commence this project, the responsibility before us is to ensure that the promise represented by today’s groundbreaking is translated into actual results.

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“This requires disciplined project implementation, effective supervision, adherence to approved specifications and standards, quality workmanship and timely completion,” he said.

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In her remarks, Walson-Jack expressed appreciation to the minister and officials of the ministry for dedicating the project to her retirement.

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She described the initiative as “a dream come true.”

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The ceremony was attended by the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, permanent secretaries, senior government officials and representatives of professional bodies.

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