The Federal Government has renewed calls for investors to participate in the stalled $18.5 billion Centenary City project in Abuja. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, made the appeal while receiving a delegation from Centenary City Plc, led by its Vice Chairman, Senator Pius Anyim.
Reviving the Centenary City Vision
Initiated in 2014 under former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Centenary City project was envisioned as a world-class smart city designed to attract global investment and establish Nigeria as a prime business destination. However, years of delays led the Senate to set up an ad-hoc committee in 2024 to investigate the challenges hindering its progress.
Dangiwa stated that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope City agenda, which promotes inclusive urban development. He emphasized the role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit and job creation.
“The government is committed to ensuring affordable housing while fostering an environment where public-private partnerships can thrive,” Dangiwa said, adding that the ministry has received expressions of interest from potential investors.
To facilitate investment, Dangiwa directed the PPP department to collaborate with Centenary City Plc and engage the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) for further partnerships.
Call for Government Support
Senator Anyim urged the Ministry to support the project by securing funding that would enable cooperative societies and individuals to own homes in Centenary City.
The project is a joint venture between UAE-based Front Range Developers and Centenary City Plc. Despite initial praise from former President Muhammadu Buhari for its potential economic impact, allegations of irregularities have slowed progress.
With renewed government backing and efforts to attract investors, the Federal Government hopes to fast-track the completion of Centenary City and fulfill its vision of a smart, globally competitive urban hub in Abuja.
