"Approach housing, not as a brick-and-mortar problem, but as a system", building expert advises

A building construction expert, Mr

According to Olowoyeye, who works with a Local Authority in the United Kingdom, housing should be approached with a system, "not as a brick-and-mortar problem."

"There is a massive shortage of housing. For too long, housing policies, programmes and deliveries of successive governments in Nigeria have failed to meet the aspirations and expectations of many citizens, particularly the low- and middle-income earners. In addition, the house affordability problem and slum-housing proliferation continue to constitute major challenges.

President represents hope to many Nigerians; hope in economic development, security, education; hope in housing and infrastructure development; and hope in checkmating corruption. If the administration could approach housing, not as a brick-and-mortar problem, but as a system; then the housing hopes of many Nigerians will not only be realised, they will also flourish."

READ: Pastor of the Royal House urges president Buhari to build 10,000 housing units

He urged the Buhari-led administration to avoid rushing or taking shortcuts as it would only complicate things.

"Delivering good quality housing involves rigorous planning and strategic thinking. It involves examining various housing options and working not only with fund managers and financial institutions but also the populace.

For instance, it is important to understand that the housing needs of people in Lagos may differ from the housing needs of people in Karu, Abuja, or people in Bonny, Rivers.

The president cannot afford to simply throw money at the housing problem; he would do well to stop the `Jankara Marketisation’ of housing in Nigeria."

What do you think?