Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Shehu Usman Osidi has commended the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for the Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) programme aimed at providing affordable and quality housing for civil servants.
Speaking at the commissioning of 116 housing units constructed under the FISH programme in Gwagwalada, FCT, on Friday, June 21, 2024, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Bank, Shehu Usman Osidi, praised the project as a “beacon of hope and a model for future housing initiatives across the country.”
Osidi emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, supported by robust policies and determined execution, in addressing the housing deficit in Nigeria. He noted that the FISH programme is a landmark achievement not only for civil servants but for Nigeria as a whole, and commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, and all stakeholders involved in the project.
“I want to specially commend and congratulate the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR and all other stakeholders involved in this project – the developers, government agencies and officials, and every individual who has contributed to making this vision a reality. Your hard work and dedication have not only provided homes for Nigerians but have also fostered a sense of community and belonging,” he stated.
Osidi further asserted the FMBN’s view on housing, noting that the Bank recognises housing as not just a basic need but a cornerstone of stability and security for individuals and families.
While giving his assurance of continued support for the FISH programme, he highlighted some of the Bank’s efforts at supporting the programme with a view to addressing the housing shortage in the country.
He said, “In our own way at FMBN, we are actively committed to seeing to the success of the FISH programme through the provision of mortgage loans from the National Housing Fund (NHF) scheme. It is on record that the Bank offered some of our completed estates for the take-off of the programme particularly the Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) Estates I & II in Kuje. FMBN is, therefore, an active collaborator in this laudable programme and we assure you of our unwavering, continued support for its success.”
The FISH programme’s delivery of 116 housing units was a collaborative effort between the Federal Ministries of Housing and Urban Development, Works, Water Resources, Power and Environment, private developers, and the Federal Government Staff Housing Loans Board, showcasing a successful public-private partnership in providing sustainable housing solutions to Nigerians.
Signed
Dr. J. M. Onyabe
Group Head, Corporate Communications
