By Adedamola Adeniji Ogun Correspondent
Public servants in Ogun State who contribute to the National Housing Fund now have easier access to low-interest housing loans, following a new push by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria.
The State Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, disclosed this at a one-day sensitisation programme held at the Nigeria Labour Congress Secretariat in Abeokuta.
The programme, organised by the bank, focused on how workers—especially in the informal sector—can access benefits under the National Housing Fund scheme.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Mr. Jola Oyeneye, the Head of Service explained that the loan facility is designed to support workers in building, purchasing, or renovating residential homes at affordable interest rates.
He noted that access to the loan would be facilitated through labour groups and associations, including the Nigeria Labour Congress, Association of Senior Civil Servants, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, among others.
Onasanya also revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding had been signed to fast-track the scheme’s implementation, urging workers to take full advantage of the opportunity, which is expected to commence in the coming weeks.
He added that the present administration has significantly increased housing delivery across the three senatorial districts of the state, aimed at improving access to affordable housing for residents.
In his remarks, the Ogun State Branch Manager of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Babatope Oyeyinka, commended the state government for its commitment to workers’ welfare, noting that Ogun remains outstanding in remittances with no outstanding debt.
He explained that the scheme offers low interest rates with flexible repayment plans spread over several years, making it accessible to workers.
Oyeyinka also outlined key requirements for application, including completed forms, title documents, tax clearance certificates, and evidence of NHF contributions.
In a solidarity message, the NLC President, Comrade Hameed Benco, described the initiative as timely and impactful, saying it brings government policies closer to workers, particularly in the area of housing.
He assured of the union’s readiness to mobilise its members and promote awareness of the scheme, while reaffirming its commitment to sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
The sensitisation programme was attended by representatives from various informal sector groups, including artisans, cooperative societies, and trade associations.
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