Housing Show Addresses Homeownership Challenges for Low‑income, Informal Workers

Low-income and informal workers in Nigeria struggling with owning their own homes have been told to expect practical solutions, including information, guidance and access to finance, at the upcoming Africa International Housing Show (AIHS).

Chief executive officer of AIHS, Festus Adebayo, who made this call, said the housing fair has been designed to bridge the gap between aspiring homeowners and the institutions, products and opportunities that could help them achieve ownership.

Adebayo said preparations were intensifying for the 20th edition of the event, billed “AIHS @20 – Legacy Edition”, which is scheduled to hold from July 13 to 18, 2026, in Abuja.

“Many people dream of owning a home but do not know where to start,” Adebayo said, adding that AIHS would bring together institutions, products, experts and opportunities needed to turn those dreams into reality.

He said the six‑day event would go beyond policy discussions by creating practical pathways to affordable housing.

According to Adebayo, the fair would give prospective homeowners direct access to mortgage institutions, housing finance providers, developers, cooperative housing schemes, commercial banks and development finance institutions.

He said dedicated sessions would allow participants to meet officials from these institutions to discuss eligibility requirements, financing options and available housing products.

Adebayo said the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) would provide information on the National Housing Fund Scheme, mortgage opportunities, rent‑to‑own initiatives and cooperative housing programmes that could expand financing options for many Nigerians.

He said the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) was expected to present innovative housing finance mechanisms and investment opportunities aimed at expanding access for low‑income and informal sector workers.

He said banks would showcase tailored financial products for housing and real estate investment, while cement manufacturers would highlight building solutions designed to reduce construction costs and improve affordability.

Adebayo said the participation of these organisations as Power Sponsors would give prospective buyers and investors direct access to financing solutions, housing products and expert guidance.

Organisers said more than 350 exhibitors from Africa, Europe, Asia and the Middle East had secured exhibition spaces and would display a range of building materials and home solutions.

“Hundreds of exhibitors will showcase roofing products, paints, tiles, elevators, smart home technologies, alternative building systems and modern construction solutions,” the organisers said.

They said the event, themed “Housing Solutions for Low Income and Informal Workers in Africa”, was expected to attract over 20,000 participants, more than 400 exhibitors and delegates from over 25 countries.

The organisers said several ministers responsible for housing, urban development, lands, infrastructure and economic planning from different African countries had confirmed participation, alongside senior government officials, development finance institutions, investors and private sector leaders.

Adebayo said AIHS would act as a one‑stop destination for anyone interested in buying, building, financing, furnishing or investing in housing.

“AIHS remains committed to helping more Africans transform their housing aspirations into reality,” he said, noting that the anniversary edition would emphasise practical engagement between consumers and providers, Adebayo said.