Asaba, Delta State – The Delta State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angeles, has unveiled ambitious plans for the state’s housing sector during his 2025 budget defense before the House Committee on Housing in the Delta State House of Assembly.
The commissioner emphasized the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in driving the ministry’s housing goals and announced a strategic blueprint to involve developers in the state’s housing agenda.
“For the ministry to improve on the provision of housing, it means it needs Public-Private Partnership, which is what we have agreed,” Hon. Angeles stated. “We have agreed to bring all the developers to Delta State, mingle with them, and achieve our goal. This is our focus for next year. Most of the developers are already in town, and that is our new blueprint for 2025.”
He, however, cautioned against land misuse, highlighting the ministry’s meticulous approach to identifying genuine developers. “Not all developers are developers; most of them are land grabbers,” he remarked. “We are listing them carefully and checking their backgrounds because you don’t rush into PPP with someone who wants to grab land and leave. Land in Delta State is costly because almost everyone from neighboring states is coming to stay here. We are taking our time, and you will see a lot of action next year.”
Hon. Angeles also discussed the ministry’s plans to expand a pilot housing scheme initiated during the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. The scheme, which provided 50 housing units—comprising 30 two-bedroom apartments and 20 one-bedroom apartments—was initially implemented in three local government areas: Ika North East, Isoko North (Ozoro), and Ndokwa West (Kwale).
Under the 2025 blueprint, the housing scheme will be extended to all 25 local government areas. “We will engage all local government chairmen and meet with community leaders to ensure that land allocation for these projects is free of disputes,” the commissioner explained. “This aligns with the M.O.R.E Agenda, which centers on creating opportunities for all.”
In a significant move to address student housing issues, Hon. Angeles announced plans for a statewide initiative, the “Sheriff Hostel” project, named after Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The project aims to provide affordable and accessible accommodation for students in higher institutions.
“Many youths are struggling to pay high rent while attending school,” he said. “In his wisdom, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is planning to roll out the ‘Sheriff Hostel’ project across all higher institutions in the state.”
The commissioner reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sustainable housing delivery, stressing that its projects would prioritize inclusivity, efficiency, and community collaboration in 2025.
