Institutional and Financial Barriers to Low-Income Housing Delivery in Nigeria:

Evidence from the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria faces a severe housing crisis, with a 28 million housing-unit deficit as of 2023, affecting mostly low-income individuals who represent the country’s largest demographic. Most available studies focus on policy perspectives, programmes and budgets rather than the views of officials who implement these programmes. This research addresses this gap by analysing low-income housing delivery from the perspective of staff of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing in Abuja and examining reported institutional, financial and policy limitations. A descriptive survey design collected primary data from 32 Ministry employees using structured questionnaires and census sampling. Findings revealed contrasting perceptions: 78.2% considered delivery levels high, 40.6% indicated persistent challenges, while 87.6% were optimistic about future prospects (χ² = 12.25–22.00, p < .05). High construction costs, weak mortgage markets, a narrow National Housing Fund contributor base and implementation gaps remained key barriers. The study provides institutional-level evidence for improving low-income housing delivery in Nigeria.