By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse
The General Manager of the Jigawa State Housing Authority, Architect Sale Abubakar Gumel, has defended the pricing of the 52 housing units currently under construction near Federal University Dutse, describing the project as unique, standard, and of high quality.
Speaking in response to allegations and public concerns over the cost of the houses, the General Manager dismissed claims that the prices were too high, insisting that the buildings were constructed with quality materials and equipped with modern facilities.
According to him, the 52 housing units differ from conventional mass housing projects because they are privately developed by the Housing Authority itself, unlike mass housing estates owned directly by the state government.
“These houses are built with quality materials and modern facilities that meet the required housing standards. That is why the prices cannot be compared with ordinary mass housing projects,” he explained.
Architect Sale Abubakar further stated that the project was funded through a ₦2 billion loan provided by the state government to strengthen the Housing Authority and make it more self-reliant.
He assured prospective buyers that the estate would be fully equipped with essential amenities, including a good road network, water supply system, solar-powered street lights, and drainage facilities to prevent flooding.
The General Manager disclosed that the housing units consist of both two-bedroom and three-bedroom houses. He said the three-bedroom units would sell for ₦37 million each, while the two-bedroom units would cost ₦32 million.
He noted that the rising cost of construction materials and inflation were major factors influencing the prices of the houses, stressing that the units remain relatively affordable when compared with similar quality projects elsewhere.
“Considering the present economic situation and the high cost of building materials, these houses are reasonably priced. In fact, they are cheaper compared to many substandard houses being sold in other places,” he said.
He also revealed that the Housing Authority had already received over 100 applications from interested buyers, indicating strong public interest in the project.
According to him, additional housing units would also be constructed in the 744 Housing Estate at more affordable rates. He added that applicants who fail to complete payment for the current units may be considered for allocation in the upcoming estate.
Architect Sale Abubakar reaffirmed the commitment of the Housing Authority to providing durable and affordable housing for residents of the state
