Governor Abba Yusuf, housing minister Ahmed Dangiwa, and other African leaders won awards at the Africa Housing Awards in Abuja.

The seventh Africa Housing Awards celebrated public and private sector leaders driving sustainable housing and infrastructure development across Africa.

Mr Yusuf was named ‘Housing and Infrastructure-Friendly Governor of the Year’ for policies supporting mass housing delivery and urban renewal initiatives.

The organisers described Mr Yusuf as “the people’s governor”, citing his commitment to inclusive housing and openness to innovative construction solutions.

Mr Dangiwa emerged as ‘Africa’s Most Transformational Minister of Housing and Urban Development 2025’ for reforms targeting affordability, local materials and private sector participation.

Speaking at the event, Mr Dangiwa said, “We are repositioning the housing sector to ensure decent and affordable homes for Nigerians. Our reforms focus on reducing construction costs and unlocking housing finance for low- and middle-income earners.”

Mr Dangiwa disclosed that a committee had been constituted to verify national housing data and was close to submitting its report. According to him, housing data would be based on credible population figures and other national parameters.

“Housing data is not as speculative as often portrayed. The committee is coming up with more reliable and verifiable data,” he said.

Fifty-two individuals, organisations, government bodies and initiatives were honoured across three categories. Namibia’s urban and rural development minister, James Sankwasa, received ‘Minister for Housing of the Year 2025’.

Mr Sankwasa said, “Africa has reached a point where it must recognise and celebrate its own development efforts.”

Finance minister Wale Edun won ‘Housing Finance Minister of the Year 2025’. Mr Edun was recognised for supporting housing finance reforms and for strengthening macroeconomic policies that impact mortgage accessibility.

Victor Umeh emerged as ‘Housing Senator of the Year 2025’ for sustained legislative advocacy on housing and infrastructure development.

Mr Umeh said, “What stands out for me is the number of youths being recognised at this event. Instead of waiting for white-collar jobs, young Nigerians are investing in real estate development.”

Armstrong Takang, was awarded ‘Housing Finance Personality of the Year’, and Uzoamaka Onukwubiri, ‘Africa’s Real Estate CEO of the Year’. Umar Sani received recognition under the female category for contributions to the housing sector.

Corporate awards went to BUA Cement as ‘Fastest Growing Cement Company of the Year 2025’. Teibitat was honoured as ‘Emerging Real Estate Brand of the Year 2025’ for innovation and market growth.

(NAN)