The Enugu State Government has begun the provision of free housing for residents of the Aguowa and Ugbo Lawrence communities as part of a humane slum redevelopment initiative, a move being hailed as unprecedented in Nigeria’s urban renewal efforts.
According to a social media post by Dan Nwomeh, the state government is finalizing the construction of the “Tomorrow Is Here” Housing Estate, which is intended to serve as temporary accommodation for families displaced by planned slum clearance. The first phase of the project comprises 103 buildings, each containing two-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, making a total of 206 housing units. The estate also includes solar-powered boreholes to ensure regular access to potable water.
During an inspection visit, the Commissioner for Housing, Dr. Martin Chukwunwike, stated that 99 of the units are already nearing completion. He attributed delays to persistent rainfall and challenging topography, but assured that the estate would be completed by the end of July.
Dr. Chukwunwike noted that a second phase is in the works and will feature three-bedroom units to accommodate larger families. He further disclosed that Governor Peter Mbah has approved free transportation for the children of resettled families to attend the nearest Smart Green School.
The estate is also benefitting from ongoing road development, with a 1.8-kilometre network currently under construction. Project engineer Uzo Lawrence explained that extensive excavation and soil stabilization were necessary due to the clay-heavy terrain, but said that over 90 percent of the roadwork is expected to be completed and asphalted within eight weeks.
Praising Governor Mbah’s approach, Dr. Chukwunwike emphasized that the administration’s decision to provide alternative housing before any demolition work begins represents a significant shift from common practice. He described the nearly two-year consultative process with landlords and stakeholders as a demonstration of responsible and compassionate governance.
He concluded by stating that the governor’s belief that poverty should not equate to disposability is at the heart of the project, which provides fully built and freely allocated homes to citizens who otherwise lack the means to secure housing.
