The federal government has provided affordable and quality housing through the Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) programme.
This initiative, managed by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025 (FCCSIP-25).
Folasade Yemi Esan, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, announced this achievement during a key presentation ceremony to beneficiaries and the official commissioning of the FISH Estate.
Located in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the estate comprises 116 two-bedroom semi-detached bungalows designed for core Civil Servants.
“Housing is universally recognized as one of man’s most essential needs,” noted Dr. Yemi Esan, highlighting the challenges posed by rising populations and economic difficulties that hinder home ownership among Civil Servants. She emphasized that the FISH programme aims to alleviate these burdens by significantly reducing housing costs and providing necessary infrastructure support.
The commissioning ceremony, attended by dignitaries including Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, underscored the government’s commitment to providing decent housing in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He praised the FISH initiative for not only offering housing solutions but also enhancing the quality of life and productivity of Civil Servants, which is crucial for national development.
Representatives from the Ministries of Works, Power, Environment, and Housing assured ongoing support for infrastructure development within the estate, crucial for the comfort and sustainability of the housing units.
Shehu Usman Osidi, Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), hailed the commissioning as a monumental step towards ensuring affordable housing for Civil Servants at federal and state levels.
Comfort Adeosun, overseeing the Office of Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, emphasized the impact of the FISH programme in guaranteeing job satisfaction and retirement security for Federal Civil Servants.
In his closing remarks, Alhaji Ibrahim Mairiga, Executive Secretary of the Federal Government Staff Housing Loans Board (FGSHLB), expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the FISH Estate a reality, while emphasizing the need for continued collaboration to expand housing opportunities.
The commissioning of the FISH Estate not only underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing Civil Servants’ welfare but also stands as a tangible manifestation of efforts towards sustainable urban development and inclusive growth.
