Nigeria Navy to Collaborate with FHA for Affordable Housing

In his unique leadership style, the Managing Director/Chief Exective of Federal Housing Authority, Hon. Oyetunde Ojo has  moved to bolster housing solutions for the Nigeria Navy personnel, and the leadership of the Nigeria Navy has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) in providing affordable and decent housing for its personnel.

This development came to light recently during a visit by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the FHA, Hon. Oyetunde Oladimeji Ojo, to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

L-R: Hon. Oyetunde Ojo and Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla

Hon. Oyetunde Ojo, leading a delegation from his management team, highlighted the purpose of the visit, which was to explore collaborative efforts with the Nigeria Navy in housing provision. He noted that such partnerships would ensure officers and ratings of the force have access to quality housing, both during their service years and in retirement. Ojo recounted past successful collaborations between the FHA and the Navy, emphasizing that the FHA is now in a better position to enhance these efforts.

“The officers and men of the force will undoubtedly give their best in service to the nation when they are assured of having decent homes,” stated Hon. Ojo. He commended Vice Admiral Ogalla for his proactive steps in housing provision since his appointment but stressed the importance of allowing the Navy to focus on its primary duty of safeguarding the nation’s internal and territorial waterways. “You can’t be fighting and building houses at the same time. That is why we are here,” Ojo remarked.

Hon. Ojo disclosed that the FHA has made significant strides in recent months, acquiring prime land in 27 states, often with compensations facilitated by state governments. This strategic move aims to address the growing need for affordable housing across the country. To this end, the FHA has introduced a semi-finished model in housing delivery. This model ensures that the exterior and essential fittings, such as electrical installations, are completed, leaving the allottees to personalize the interiors to their preferences and capabilities.

Furthermore, Hon. Ojo elaborated on the FHA’s Diaspora Housing Initiative, which targets Nigerians living abroad. This initiative provides them with the opportunity to own homes in neighborhoods comparable to those in any part of the world, thus mitigating the risks of being defrauded when sending money home for property development. The FHA Mortgage Bank, he assured, is well-equipped to arrange mortgages for naval personnel, making home ownership more accessible.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla welcomed the collaboration, recognizing the critical role of secure housing in the welfare and morale of naval officers and ratings. He expressed optimism that this partnership with the FHA would significantly enhance the living conditions of Navy personnel, enabling them to focus more effectively on their core duties of national defense.

Under the visionary leadership of Hon. Oyetunde Ojo, the FHA is making commendable strides in transforming Nigeria’s housing sector. His proactive approach, strategic acquisitions, and innovative housing models demonstrate a commitment to improving the living standards of both serving and retired military personnel. This partnership with the Nigeria Navy marks another milestone in Ojo’s tenure, reflecting his dedication to providing quality, affordable housing solutions across the nation.