Nigeria and Saudi Arabia are set to deepen bilateral cooperation in housing development and infrastructure investment as both countries explore strategic partnerships aimed at addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit and attracting foreign investment into the sector.
The move followed a courtesy visit by the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Muhammad Al-Balawi, to the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, in Abuja on Wednesday.
At the meeting, both sides discussed opportunities for collaboration in housing and infrastructure development, as well as Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming Riyadh Real Estate Future Forum (RFF), scheduled for January 2027.
Speaking during the meeting, Darma welcomed Saudi Arabia’s interest in partnering with Nigeria, describing the country as Africa’s largest nation with huge housing and infrastructure development needs.
The minister said strategic international partnerships would be critical to achieving the Federal Government’s housing objectives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
He noted that discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest and attracting Saudi developers and investors into Nigeria’s housing market.
According to him, collaboration with countries that have demonstrated expertise in delivering large-scale housing projects, such as Saudi Arabia, would significantly support the government’s drive to provide decent and affordable housing for Nigerians.
Darma added that increased investment in the housing sector would not only accelerate housing delivery but also stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.
Responding, Ambassador Al-Balawi reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to bridge its housing deficit.
The envoy highlighted the achievements of Saudi Arabia’s National Housing Company, describing it as a government-backed institution that has successfully delivered large-scale housing projects across the Kingdom.
He said Saudi Arabia was prepared to share its technical expertise, knowledge and best practices with Nigeria to strengthen the country’s housing sector.
Al-Balawi also disclosed that the proposed partnership could create opportunities for qualified Nigerian professionals and skilled workers to participate in housing and construction projects in Saudi Arabia, promoting skills transfer and employment.
The ambassador further reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to expanding diplomatic and economic relations with Nigeria, expressing optimism that stronger cooperation in housing and infrastructure would deliver lasting benefits for both countries.
The meeting underscored the shared determination of Nigeria and Saudi Arabia to strengthen bilateral ties through strategic investments that will accelerate housing delivery, boost infrastructure development and deepen economic cooperation.
