South-East States Launch Landmark Initiative to Deliver 100,000 Affordable Homes

A major regional housing initiative has been launched in Nigeria’s South-East, as Igboebinie, a regional development consortium, and Hand of God Construction Company Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver 100,000 modern housing units across six states. The agreement, formalised in Enugu, marks one of the largest coordinated housing projects in eastern Nigeria.

The decade-long initiative will cover Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, and Asaba in Delta State. The project aims to significantly reduce the region’s housing deficit, complementing national efforts to close Nigeria’s estimated 28-million-unit housing gap. Beyond housing delivery, the estates are designed to promote economic activity, urban renewal, and the adoption of technology.

According to the developers, participating states have allocated substantial land parcels, while Igboebinie and Hand of God Construction will jointly finance the project. The estates will integrate smart-city infrastructure intended to stimulate trade, industrial growth, and attract investment.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Project leaders estimate the initiative will generate approximately three million jobs across the region, spanning construction, technology, and ancillary services. The scheme is expected to expand access to quality housing for families while simultaneously enhancing regional economic resilience.

Chinedu Nsofor, President of Igboebinie, described the project as a historic step for regional development, driven by innovation and strategic collaboration. He emphasised that the South-East possesses the human capital and economic potential to reduce poverty and strengthen security through large-scale infrastructure investment.

Innovative Construction Approach

Nsofor also introduced a “zero construction mechanism,” a novel building model designed to reduce costs and improve affordability. This approach aligns with the broader objective of delivering high-quality, cost-effective housing at scale.

David Nwachukwu, Managing Director of Hand of God Construction Company Limited, highlighted the project’s connection to the Southeast REDAN Cities Initiative and growing interest from diaspora investors. He noted that digital and technology-driven solutions would accelerate project timelines while maintaining quality standards.

Government Support and Oversight

Government officials from Enugu, Ebonyi, and Imo states have formally endorsed the initiative. Enugu Commissioner for Lands, Patrick Okolie, confirmed the state had allocated approximately 50 hectares to the project and highlighted the criminalisation of land grabbing as a measure to safeguard investors.

The commissioners from Ebonyi and Imo states similarly emphasised the partnership’s potential to expand housing, create employment, and strengthen public-private collaboration.

Conclusion

This landmark South-East housing project underscores a strategic approach to urban development, combining large-scale housing delivery, technological integration, and economic revitalisation. For investors, policymakers, and urban development stakeholders, the initiative signals a robust commitment to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit while fostering regional growth and innovation.