Housing Ministry laments staff shortage, writes Presidency

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, has raised the alarm over the ministry’s dire need for staff, stating that he has written to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HOS), the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), and the President, seeking special approval for recruitment due to the ministry’s unique operational structure.

He disclosed that the ministry’s manpower challenge will soon be addressed, as efforts are underway to secure final approval for the recruitment of new officers to boost the workforce, which has significantly reduced due to progressive retirements from the Federal Civil Service.

“Upon assumption of duty, I observed a drastic reduction in staff strength, necessitating the recruitment of new personnel. We have written to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, and the President for special approval for recruitment due to our peculiar operational structure,” he explained.

According to him, the ministry faces a unique challenge because its field offices across the country require staff to operate effectively.Sharing insights into his work ethic, Belgore noted that the commitment and positive attitude of staff motivate him to work harder, stressing that the major gaps are job satisfaction and workplace happiness—issues he pledged to address. In a statement, Belgore appealed for continued patience, dedication, and trust from staff as management works to improve conditions and clear the backlog of outstanding liabilities as soon as practicable.

Belgore made the remarks during an interactive meeting with ministry staff in Abuja, saying the purpose of the meeting was to understand staff concerns and address them accordingly.

“I am a workaholic, but I am encouraged because everyone here wants to work. The problem is job satisfaction and happiness at work.

I assure you I will do everything to make your work and life easier,” he stated.

On transportation challenges, the Permanent Secretary told staff about the ministry’s plan to procure new buses. In the interim, he directed the Director of Human Resources Management to move two buses from the Lagos field office to the headquarters in Abuja to augment the existing fleet.

“I have looked into the bus issue, and I know the buses have run down. That is why new buses are being added to the fleet. I am hopeful these will bring some respite,” he said.

On sports matters, he announced that funds had been sourced and released to enable the ministry’s participation in the ongoing sports tournament in Adamawa State.

Regarding working tools, Belgore revealed that the procurement process for computers, laptops, desktops, printers, and scanners has commenced, emphasising that with the right tools, staff can perform optimally from any location.