The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Yusuf Atta, has returned from a high-level international engagement in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, where he represented Nigeria at the prestigious Kazan International Islamic Forum.
The annual gathering, held within the Russian Federation, brought together global leaders, policymakers, and investors to discuss economic cooperation among Islamic countries and key international partners.
Speaking to journalists at the Aminu Kano International Airport on Tuesday, May 20, upon his arrival, the minister described the visit as “fruitful” and “a major milestone in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Nigeria.
Through his media aide, Seyi Olorunsola, he emphasized that Nigeria’s presence at the forum was far beyond symbolic—it was a targeted mission to strengthen international collaboration, particularly in the housing sector.
READ ALSO: Minister Ata Showcases Nigeria Housing Reform At Global Property Forum In Russia
“We were at the Kazan International Islamic Forum, invited by the Russian Federation. The gathering brought together leaders including the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Minister of Agriculture from Jordan, and several high-ranking officials from Russia. Our discussions were productive and focused on real opportunities,” the minister said.
Rt. Hon. Atta revealed that Nigeria used the platform to highlight its massive housing investment potential under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The agenda, which prioritizes inclusive growth and economic transformation, features flagship projects like the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates, aimed at addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit—estimated at over 17 million units.
“We spotlighted investment opportunities ranging from large-scale construction to smart urban infrastructure development,” Atta said. “One major outcome is our plan to host the Russian Minister of Construction in Nigeria. This reciprocal visit will kickstart concrete investment collaborations.”
The minister further disclosed that private sector players from Russia and other participating countries have expressed strong interest in entering Nigeria’s housing market. According to him, some firms have already begun scheduling exploratory visits, signaling growing international confidence in the country’s reform agenda and housing sector.
READ ALSO: Minister Atah Joins NIESV To Commemorate Estate Valuation Day In Abuja
Beyond housing, the forum also paved the way for cross-sectoral initiatives, including potential agri-residential estate projects discussed with Russian and Jordanian agricultural officials. These concepts are being integrated into Nigeria’s broader urban development policy to foster sustainable, mixed-use communities.
Atta attributed these achievements to the strategic vision and political will of President Tinubu. “Through the National Social Housing Programme, ongoing land reforms, and significant strides in improving the ease of doing business, Nigeria is fast becoming a top destination for global capital in housing,” he noted.
He concluded by assuring Nigerians of the ministry’s continued efforts to leverage international platforms for national development. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “Under President Tinubu, Nigeria is rising. We are building trust, attracting investment, and creating opportunities that will benefit all citizens.”