An Assessment of Public Private Partnerships for Housing Projects in Bauchi State, North Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Public Private Partnership (PPP) has gained wide acceptance as a strategy for housing provision in many countries. However, the level of success varies from one country to the other due to economic, political and cultural variations. This study examines PPP in housing in Bauchi State in Nigeria using Unity Housing Estate as a case study with the view to examine its performance and to suggest possible measures for improving the effectiveness of the concept. Methods of data collection used were semi-structured interviews and direct observation. Interviews responses were tape-recorded in addition to note taking which were subsequently transcribed and validated. The model of PPP used in the area was the Design-Build-Finance arrangement in which the private party takes the responsibilities for the design, finance and construction of the housing units. The houses were far beyond the affordability level of the target beneficiaries. Some of the challenges depicted were lack of political will, corruption among government agents and private sector developers, insincerity of contacting parties and unavailability of development fund. The study suggests among others, attitudinal change among stakeholders to ensure the success of PPP housing, the need to establish and empower relevant institutions that will help in fighting corruption.