The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has restated the importance of adequate, decent, and affordable housing for staff of the university.
He made this statement at a two-day sensitization programme organized by the university for members of staff (teaching and non-teaching staff) to interact with officials of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) to address the challenges of housing for the university staff.
Professor Adebowale said the programme was structured as a town hall meeting to enlighten staff members on the benefits of the National Housing Fund (NHF) scheme, available facilities, and how it is administered by the Bank.
He emphasized that the FMBN holds immense potential to be a transformative partner in addressing the specific housing needs of the university sector, stating that with its tailored financial solutions, accessible housing schemes, and commitment to affordable home ownership, the FMBN is positioned to support institutions like the University of Ibadan in bridging the housing gap for staff.
In view of this, the VC expressed optimism that the town hall meeting would address ways for sustainable housing development and long-term staff satisfaction, ultimately contributing to a more stable and motivated workforce within the academic community and transforming the housing landscape for the staff of the University of Ibadan.
The Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu O. Saliu, fspsp, in his welcome address, stated that the essence of the town hall meeting was to create an opportunity for both the staff and representatives of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria to engage in meaningful discussions, where rough edges of the mandatory deduction of housing funds are addressed and both parties find a common ground on issues surrounding the staff housing programme.
The representatives of the bank addressed the members of staff and thereafter responded to questions from them while clarifying complicated issues that border on deduction and remittances.
The FMBN officials assured that steps are being taken to review the existing processes, remove bottlenecks, and ensure a more transparent and inclusive system that truly serves the interest of every staff member.
They explained the workings of the National Housing Fund (NHF), the eligibility requirements, and application procedures, highlighting the various housing loan products available at the bank, which include:
• Renovation and Refurbishment Loan Scheme – to help contributors upgrade or repair their existing homes.
• Rent-to-Own Scheme – enabling beneficiaries to move into FMBN-built homes and pay mortgage until full ownership is achieved.
• Partnership for New Housing Development – a collaboration with developers to build affordable housing for eligible workers across the country.
The FMBN team reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to working closely with the University of Ibadan to ensure that more staff benefit from the housing schemes in the near future, reiterating that effective collaboration and continuous engagement remain key in translating the vision of affordable home ownership into reality for university staff.
Credit: UI DIRECTORATE OF PUBLIC COMMUNUCATION
