Dangote Cement Plc has reiterated the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in delivering affordable mass housing to Nigerians, calling on key players in the housing sector to unite in addressing the country’s deepening housing crisis.

Speaking at the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), the company’s National Sales Director, Dolapo Alli, stressed that tackling Nigeria’s housing deficit requires joint efforts among government agencies, private developers, non-profit organizations, and local communities.

In a statement issued by the company, Alli noted that PPP frameworks could be instrumental in driving large-scale housing projects. “Government can spearhead estate development through PPP models, while building and construction companies should be incentivized with tax breaks and financial credits to ease the cost of constructing affordable homes,” he explained.

Alli lauded the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Housing Initiative, describing it as a step in the right direction towards promoting homeownership, particularly among low- and middle-income groups. However, he cautioned that the housing gap—estimated in the millions—demands a more ambitious and collaborative approach.

“There’s an urgent need for synergy between the public and private sectors to unlock innovative financing options, simplify regulations, and expand delivery capacity to meet the rising demand for quality, affordable housing,” he added.

Highlighting the barriers to affordable housing in Nigeria, Alli listed challenges such as urban population growth, limited housing literacy, escalating land and construction costs, inadequate infrastructure, unreliable housing data, and poor access to long-term, low-interest financing.

To overcome these obstacles, he urged all levels of government to introduce impactful policies and allocate land for mass housing projects. He emphasized that sustained collaboration remains key to ensuring decent shelter for all Nigerians.

Dangote Cement Plc, a major sponsor of this year’s AIHS, reaffirmed its commitment to the event, noting its role in catalyzing new ideas and forging valuable partnerships to advance housing development in Nigeria.

The AIHS—set to conclude on Friday, August 1, 2025—serves as a critical hub for industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and stakeholders to exchange insights, showcase solutions, and explore opportunities within the housing sector. This year’s theme centers on making housing more affordable and accessible across Africa.

As Nigeria’s housing deficit continues to widen, Dangote Cement’s advocacy for cost-effective housing solutions underscores the growing need for unified action to meet the country’s urgent shelter needs.