Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Shehu Usman Osidi, has underscored the critical role of housing as a catalyst for investment growth and broader economic development, as policymakers, investors, development partners, and key political actors, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, converged for the 3rd edition of the Nasarawa Investment Summit in Lafia.

Osidi emphasized that sustainable housing development remains central to unlocking economic opportunities, particularly in emerging investment destinations such as Nasarawa State, noting that the sector holds significant potential to stimulate productivity, create jobs, and improve living standards.

“With its strategic location, expanding infrastructure, and investor-friendly environment, Nasarawa State is well positioned to drive integrated housing and investment-led development, he stated.”

Osidi further noted that FMBN's growing interventions in Nasarawa State reflect the impact of strong collaboration between government and financial institutions in expanding access to affordable housing.

According to him, FMBN has financed over 11 housing projects in the state, delivering more than 1,590 housing units, while also disbursing over ₦9.4 Billion in Home Renovation Loans to more than 10,600 civil servants. 

He added that over 430 new housing units are currently being developed under the Affordable Workers’ Housing Scheme across the State's  three senatorial zones.

“These interventions demonstrate our commitment not only to financing houses but to supporting livelihoods, restoring dignity, and strengthening the economic fabric of our communities,” Osidi affirmed.

In his keynote address, Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria’s economy is on a recovery path, driven by bold reforms under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He commended the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule for sustaining the Summit as a credible platform for investment and for positioning the state as a hub for mineral resources and economic opportunities.

Governor Sule, in his address noted that the 2026 edition of the Summit is focused on consolidating gains from previous summits and charting a pathway for the next phase of economic development.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of the Lafia Declaration—a Nasarawa Economic Continuity and Competitiveness Pact endorsed by key stakeholders, including the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), the Nasarawa Youth Council and other key representatives, aimed at strengthening policy continuity and reinforcing investor confidence.

The 2026 Summit holding May 6-7, 2026 is themed "Bold Transitions: Building a Legacy for a Sustainable Future," and is an initiative of the Nasarawa State Government through its investment promotion platform, the Nasarawa State Investment Development Agency (NASIDA), led by its Managing Director/CEO, Ibrahim A. Abdullahi.

The summit drew a distinguished cross-section of stakeholders, including the Honourable Ministers of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu and of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe and representatives of leading industries including Aliko Dangote who was represented by Engr. Mansir Aliyu, among others.

In line with FMBN's efforts at expanding access to affordable housing, a befitting exhibition booth was strategically mounted at the venue of the Summit to enable participants make inquiries about the Bank’s products and services.

A key visitor to the booth was the Executive Chairman of Toto Local Government, Hon. Pharmacist Ahmed Baba Yahaya, who, visibly impressed, pledged to explore partnership opportunities with FMBN for the benefit of residents of Toto Local Government Area.

The Summit is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, May 7, 2026, with presentation of awards to the top three winners of an MSME Challenge.