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Assessment of the Role of Imo State Housing Corporation in the Provision of Housing in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Anozie, C. G., Nwankpa, J.E, Akanazu, R.E., Nnamdi, A.C., Chukwuemekaobi, I.

Abstract

Housing provision remains a critical component of urban development and social welfare in Nigeria, particularly in rapidly urbanizing cities such as Owerri, Imo State. This paper assesses the role of the Imo State Housing Corporation in the provision of housing in Owerri, Imo State, with a view to evaluating its contributions, challenges and overall effectiveness in addressing housing needs. Using a systematic review of peer-reviewed empirical studies and policy literature published between 2015 and 2025, complemented by analysis of selected primary studies of IMSHC estates, the study maps IMSHC’s statutory mandate, institutional capacity, financing instruments, project delivery models and estate management practices. Findings indicate that IMSHC’s contribution to housing provision is constrained by weak financing arrangements, limited technical and managerial capacity, fragmented institutional coordination, land-tenure and allocation bottlenecks, and weak estate maintenance systems - factors that mirror broader inhibiting conditions for affordable housing in Nigerian metropolitan contexts. Evidence from empirical studies of IMSHC estates in Owerri shows recurring maintenance backlogs, uneven estate management capacity and weak resident engagement, which together undermine both physical quality and household affordability outcomes. Comparative literature from other Nigerian states and metropolitan case studies further shows that where state housing corporations adopt diversified financing (including Public Private Partnerships , cooperative-based finance and institutional lending), stronger asset management and clearer maintenance regimes, housing outcomes strengthen significantly. The paper synthesizes these findings into actionable recommendations: institutional reforms to clarify roles and strengthen governance; blended financing packages and partnerships with credible private and cooperative actors; professionalized estate management and preventive maintenance.

Keywords

AffordableAssessmentCorporationHousingProvisionIIARD International Journal of Geography & Environmental Management

References

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