• Nigeria launches digital platform to report real estate fraud

• Second system introduced to monitor construction projects in real time

• Aims to boost housing transparency amid 28M-unit deficit, land disputes

Nigeria's Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has launched a new digital platform to report real estate fraud. Housing Minister Ahmed Musa Dangiwa announced the tool on Tuesday, August 26, stating it will allow citizens to report suspicious practices and submit evidence related to land and property disputes.

Developed in partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the initiative aligns with the 2012 National Housing Policy, which calls for stronger regulation and oversight of the sector. Dangiwa said the platform will help protect Nigerians from scams and increase transparency. He warned that all instances of fraud will be prosecuted in cooperation with professional bodies, law enforcement, and the judiciary.

The ministry also introduced a second tool, the "Contract Performance and Compliance Project Monitoring System (CPCPMS)." This digital system allows for real-time tracking of construction projects through a central dashboard, performance indicators for contractors, mobile site reports, and a centralized document database.

Through these two initiatives, the government aims to create a more "transparent and credible" housing sector so Nigerians can invest and acquire homes "with confidence."

The launch comes amid significant pressure on the real estate market. According to Nigerian firm The Trusted Advisors, land disputes account for about 65% of civil cases in courts.

With more than 53% of its population living in urban areas and a housing deficit estimated at 28 million units, according to Housing Finance Africa, land issues remain a critical challenge for governance, social cohesion, and development in Nigeria.

Charlène N’dimon