FG-backed free housing scheme transforms widows lives in Kaduna

A federal government-backed housing scheme has transformed the lives of dozens of widows in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, six months after the allocation of free homes to beneficiaries. The initiative, delivered under the Family Homes Funds in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and the Adashe Women […]

A federal government-backed housing scheme has transformed the lives of dozens of widows in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, six months after the allocation of free homes to beneficiaries.

The initiative, delivered under the Family Homes Funds in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and the Adashe Women Housing and Empowerment Society, provided 100 two-bedroom flats to vulnerable women across the state.

The facility manager of the estate, Dr Mustapha Umar Kumshe, said occupancy had increased after initial hesitation by beneficiaries over concerns about security and access to the area.

He noted that although the 100 housing units were commissioned and allocated late last year, relocation was slow at the beginning due to fears of insecurity and infrastructure challenges.

“We engaged the beneficiaries directly and strengthened security within the estate to address their concerns,” he said.

Kumshe disclosed that more than 65 of the houses are now occupied, with additional residents expected to move in over the coming weeks.

He said the estate currently has over 20 security personnel, including vigilantes and civil defence officers, to ensure the safety of residents. He added that early occupants who lived in the estate without incident helped build confidence among others.

The manager also revealed that investigations uncovered internal issues within the beneficiaries’ association, including cases where some officials allegedly withheld keys from rightful owners. He said management intervened by replacing locks and reissuing keys to affected beneficiaries.

According to him, the estate is equipped with essential amenities such as potable water, electricity, solar lighting and internet services. It also has functional boreholes, a dedicated transformer and solar installations in each housing unit.

He urged remaining beneficiaries to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that the houses were provided free of charge

Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke during a visit to the estate, said the intervention had brought relief from years of housing challenges and improved their overall well-being.

One of them, Fadila Tahir, said the scheme had changed her personal circumstances. According to her, access to stable accommodation played a role in helping her rebuild her life. “I came here as a widow, but today I am married because accommodation is no longer a problem. I am grateful to Allah,” she said.

Another resident, Amina Alhassan, said the housing support had significantly improved her family’s living conditions. She explained that she previously lived in a single room with her children but now occupies a more comfortable apartment.

“We now have two rooms with tiles, electricity and water. It still feels like a dream,” she said.

The housing project, launched in November 2025, is designed to provide safe, affordable and dignified accommodation for vulnerable women, particularly widows, across Kaduna State.