By TONY OKAFOR
As the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State draws closer, one question lingers: why are the candidates saying almost nothing about housing for the people?
Across campaign platforms, they promise roads, schools, and youth empowerment. Yet, on the fundamental issue of housing — a cornerstone of human dignity — there has been deafening silence.
One major candidate even dismissed the idea, claiming Anambra “does not have enough land” for housing projects. Another merely mentioned building teachers’ quarters. Beyond that, no clear housing agenda has emerged.
This silence is troubling. Housing is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It ranks just above food, water, and safety in Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Without decent shelter, every other policy — from education to entrepreneurship — rests on shaky ground.
A responsible government does not ignore the roof over its citizens’ heads. Progressive societies treat housing as a social right — a duty of the state, not a favour. Nigeria’s Constitution may not make it enforceable, but Chapter Two clearly mandates government to provide “adequate shelter” for all citizens.
The claim that Anambra “has no land” is defeatist. Land scarcity should inspire innovation, not excuse inaction. High-rise apartments, urban renewal, and smart community housing are possible with vision and planning.
Even Lagos, with less land than Anambra (3,577 sq. km to 4,844 sq. km), is building for its people. Through the Lagos Home Ownership Mortgage Scheme (LagosHOMS) and estates in Epe, Ikorodu, and Badagry, Lagos proves that progress depends on will, not land size.
The next governor of Anambra must understand that housing is development. It reduces congestion and crime, strengthens families, and restores dignity.
As campaigns reach the home stretch, candidates must speak clearly about housing.What is your plan for affordable homes? How will you help workers and low-income families own decent shelter? What partnerships will you forge with private developers and global agencies like UN-Habitat and Shelter Afrique?
It is not enough to boast of flyovers and fun cities when citizens sleep under leaking roofs.
Anambra deserves a government that sees housing as a basic human right — one that upholds the dignity of its people.
Until that vision takes root, our development story will remain incomplete.
Laborare est orare — to work is to pray.
