Akwa Ibom Residents in Abuja Back Governor Eno’s Proposed Housing Estate in FCT
Abuja Akwa Ibom Diaspora Backs Umo Eno’s FCT Housing Estate Proposal
A growing number of Akwa Ibom State Government residents based in Abuja have voiced strong support for Governor Umo Eno’s proposal to acquire land in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for development of a housing estate tailored to the Akwa Ibom community and investors. The endorsement reflects community interest in securing long-term accommodation and mobilising investment opportunities beyond state boundaries.
Residents who spoke on the initiative described the proposed estate as a strategic move that could provide stable housing options for indigenes living and working in Abuja one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing urban centres and serve as an asset-building platform.
Community Support and Rationale
Supporters argue the housing estate could offer Akwa Ibom indigenes residing in Abuja a sustainable homeownership path in a city where rental demand and costs are high. Many said such a development would strengthen community networks and provide long-term investment returns for families and retirees.
Proponents also view the plan as a means for the Akwa Ibom diaspora in the FCT to maintain a tangible connection to their home state while accessing the economic opportunities of Nigeria’s capital city. This aligns with broader trends of diaspora engagement in property development and regional investment.
Project Background and Strategic Intent
Governor Eno’s proposal involves identifying and acquiring a significant land parcel in Abuja for the construction of a dedicated housing estate that would be marketed primarily to Akwa Ibom residents and investors. While specific project details such as land size, housing units and timelines are yet to be finalised, the governor has indicated that the proposal aims to blend commercial viability with community benefits.
The investment approach reflects Akwa Ibom’s interest in diversifying its revenue streams beyond traditional federal allocations, especially by investing in real estate in high-demand urban markets. In this context, property and housing development outside the state has been framed as a medium- to long-term economic asset that can support government finances and provide returns for beneficiaries.
Broader Reception and Considerations
While the initiative has attracted backing from many in the Akwa Ibom community in Abuja, not all stakeholders are unanimously supportive. Critics from within political circles have urged a prioritisation of housing development within Akwa Ibom itself, asserting that local housing deficits and rental costs remain pressing issues. These critics contend that investments should focus first on addressing in-state housing gaps before external ventures.
The debate underscores broader policy questions about how state governments balance community advocacy, diaspora engagement, economic diversification and domestic development priorities.
The endorsement by Akwa Ibom residents living in Abuja for Governor Eno’s proposed housing estate in the FCT highlights an emerging nexus between diaspora aspirations and subnational investment strategies. As planning progresses, policymakers will need to consider how such inter-jurisdictional housing initiatives can achieve tangible community benefits while aligning with broader state development goals.
