By Tolu Oguntimehin 

The organizers of the highly anticipated design hub reality show have recently presented their comprehensive plans to the distinguished Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Honourable Ahmed Dangiwa, in anticipation of the forthcoming event slated for 2024.

At the forefront of this presentation was Mr. Segun Maku, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cipriani Limited and a noteworthy supporter of Rugby Nigeria through his Syda company. The focal point of their proposal revolves around the ambitious endeavor to develop the largest 3D smart city community in Abuja, a groundbreaking initiative that includes a one-of-a-kind Sport University. Mr. Maku's strategic partner in this visionary venture is none other than Lafarge Cement PLC. Their collaborative vision emphasizes that the design hub reality show will play a pivotal role in bridging the existing housing challenge gap.

This ambitious project also enjoys partnerships with the Federal Capital Territory Authority and the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. The collaborative efforts are geared towards overcoming the challenges inherent in traditional construction methods through the incorporation of cutting-edge 3D technology. Notably, Femi Yusuff, an esteemed construction expert, shared insights during the presentation, shedding light on the housing challenges in Nigeria.

According to estimates by the United Nations, a staggering 85% of urban dwellers in Nigeria currently reside in single rooms.

 

Mr. Yusuff passionately argued that this housing dilemma could be effectively addressed through a combination of technology and well-crafted government policies. He acknowledged the inherent technical and commercial challenges associated with the development of 3D printing technology for affordable housing. However, he expressed confidence in resolving these challenges by adapting proposed architectural drawings to Nigeria’s engineering design standards, which are developed around Euro-codes for engineering designs.

As part of the proposed solution, Mr. Yusuff emphasized the necessity of constructing a robust business case for the relatively expensive 3D printer. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of garnering interest from a significant number of real estate developers willing to adopt this transformative technology for their upcoming projects.

 

In Mr. Yusuff's visionary perspective, the 3D technology stands as the future of housing in Nigeria, contingent upon major stakeholders collaborating effectively through the initiative.

He lauded the inclusion of Cipriani Nig Ltd into the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s reform team. This encompasses various crucial teams such as the Reform Team for Federal Housing Institutions, the Multi-agency Project Team, the Land Reform Team, and the Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs Task Team. According to him, this strategic co-option marks a commendable step in the right direction towards realizing the transformative potential of 3D technology in Nigeria's housing sector.