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The Rivers State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing adequate, affordable and sustainable housing for residents, with emphasis on low- and medium-income earners.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Amaopusenibo Sir Amairigha Edward Hart, stated this on Monday during the 2026 World Habitat Day celebration organised by the ministry at the Justice Mary Odili Judicial Institute Auditorium, Port Harcourt.
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Town Planner Mrs Soibitein Duke-Harry, said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Adequate Housing For All,” was timely given the growing demand for shelter arising from increasing urbanisation.
He highlighted the housing interventions of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, particularly the 20,000 RIV/TAF City Housing Units designed for medium- and low-income earners, as well as the Civil Servants’ Quarters and Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters.
According to him, the projects demonstrate the administration’s commitment to improving the living conditions of residents and promoting sustainable urban development.
He said the housing projects would not only provide decent accommodation but also create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activities in the state.
Hart urged professional bodies in the built environment and residents to support the government’s urban renewal initiatives, stressing the importance of collaboration in addressing the state’s housing challenges.
Delivering the keynote lecture, veteran Town Planner, Rev. Dr Mina Aprioku, said rapid urbanisation, affordability challenges and rising demand had placed considerable pressure on housing in Port Harcourt and other Nigerian cities.
Aprioku called for increased housing construction backed by appropriate policies developed in collaboration with professionals in the built environment.
He also urged residents to comply with physical planning regulations and contribute to the development of their communities.
The event, held to mark the United Nations World Habitat Day, brought together town planners, architects, engineers, surveyors, environmentalists, civil society organisations, students and other stakeholders.
In a related development, the ministry urged residents to comply with the state’s flood sensitisation advisory by avoiding construction on natural waterways, riverbanks and flood-prone areas.
Residents were also advised against blocking drainage channels or dumping refuse in gutters and were urged to promptly report signs of flooding to the appropriate authorities.
The ministry said adherence to physical planning and environmental regulations remained critical to protecting lives and property and achieving sustainable urban development in Rivers State.
