Niger Government Begins Construction Of 160 Units Housing For Displaced Persons

The Niger State Government has constructed about 160 units of housing for persons displaced as a result of flood and other ecological disasters in the Muregi and Ketso communities of the state.

People of Muregi and Ketso communities, who have been intermittently displaced as a result of floods and other ecological disasters, will soon breathe a sigh of relief following the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of 160 units in phase one.

The Housing Resettlement Scheme was organised by the Hydroelectric Power Producing Area Development Commission (HYPPADEC) in collaboration with the state government. 

Performing the foundation laying, Governor Abubakar Sani Bello observed that the shelter, when completed, will provide the needed safety to the people.

"Efforts like this will guarantee the safety of lives and property of these communities", he said.

Recounting the effect of Rivers Kaduna and Niger on several communities, the Governor said the resettlement project is long overdue and hoped that the project will be completed within the contractual agreement.

He said the state government would work together with HYPPADEC in the provision of basic infrastructure such as roads, adding that electricity provision to Muregi will soon be completed.

He urged the people to protect government installations in their communities for their continued and long-term benefits. 

In his address, the Managing Director of HYPPADEC, Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, explained that out of the 160 units, 120 will go to Muregi people while 40 will be to the people of Ketso.

He said they have carried out their needs assessment and professional survey and decided to select the two communities because they have been frequently affected by floods since 2015.

The MD said the construction of the Housing units will gulp about N500Million and each of the units will occupy half of the plot size allocated for it to allow for future expansions.

He disclosed that access roads and earth drains will be constructed at the site to prevent flooding.

According to him, "the entire project shall be carried out using efficient and sustainable construction materials, under the strict supervision of the Commission’s Directorate of Engineering and Technical Services". 

 He appreciated the Governor for his unwavering support to the Commission and assured that the first phase will be completed and commissioned before the end of the present administration.