The German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), led by Country Director Markus Wagner, has committed to supporting Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development with technical assistance, climate finance access, and policy development. The announcement was made during a meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, in Abuja, highlighting the German-Nigeria Energy Partnership established in 2008.

Wagner outlined GIZ’s plans to enhance the ministry’s capacity to integrate energy efficiency into building design, construction, and operation. Key initiatives include conducting energy audits in 14 tertiary healthcare facilities and providing energy efficiency support to Kano State starting in May 2025. “These efforts will strengthen Nigeria’s sustainable development in the housing sector,” Wagner said.

Minister Dangiwa expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with GIZ to pilot a Green Mortgage Scheme, modeled after successful international frameworks like Mexico’s INFONAVIT program. The scheme, to be integrated into the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria’s National Housing Fund, aims to drive the supply and uptake of energy-efficient, affordable homes under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Housing Programme. “This partnership aligns with our vision to create sustainable, climate-resilient communities,” Dangiwa stated.

The collaboration is part of the broader Partnership for Energy Efficiency in Buildings, a GIZ initiative promoting energy-efficient improvements in the building sector. Nigeria has been identified as a key partner, with plans to embed energy-efficient standards across all housing projects, including the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme. Dangiwa emphasized ongoing efforts to review the National Building Code, establish Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs, and upgrade the National Urban Renewal Programme to incorporate green infrastructure in slum redevelopment. “All future housing designs will incorporate green and climate-smart features,” he added.

The partnership supports Nigeria’s national climate goals, aiming to reduce energy consumption and promote environmental sustainability. GIZ’s technical expertise and climate finance are expected to bolster Nigeria’s capacity to deliver on these objectives, fostering sustainable urban development and resilient communities.