The Kwara State Government has unveiled plans to construct 1,600 housing units across the state's 16 Local Government Areas as part of efforts to reduce the housing deficit and improve residents' standard of living.

The initiative forms part of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq administration's commitment to using housing and infrastructure development to drive economic growth, create jobs, reduce poverty and enhance social welfare.

Under the programme, 100 housing units will be built in each of the 16 local government areas following an assessment of housing needs and population growth across the state.

Communities expected to benefit include Lafiagi, Offa, Erin-Ile, Babaloma, Patigi, Kaiama, as well as locations within Ilorin East, Ilorin South and Ilorin West Local Government Areas.

The government also announced plans to develop additional housing projects in communities hosting campuses of Kwara State University (KWASU) to address accommodation shortages in those areas.

Speaking on the initiative, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr Segun Ogunsola, disclosed that the state had acquired the 132-unit Ogbondoroko Federal Housing Estate from the Federal Government as part of efforts to expand access to affordable housing.

He added that all preliminary arrangements had been completed for the construction of an additional 250 housing units, with work expected to commence within the current fiscal year.

According to the commissioner, the housing projects will provide decent accommodation, stimulate economic activities, create employment opportunities and promote social development across the state.

The estates will primarily consist of two-bedroom and three-bedroom homes designed to meet the housing needs of low- and middle-income earners.

Dr Ogunsola also revealed plans for a smart city capable of accommodating approximately 540,000 residents, describing the project as a major step towards modern urban development and sustainable housing in Kwara State.