Introduction

Owning a home is a lifelong goal for many Nigerians, but the rising cost of real estate makes it challenging for the average worker. The National Housing Fund (NHF) provides a solution by offering affordable mortgage loans to middle-class and working-class Nigerians, helping them achieve homeownership with ease.

In this guide, we’ll explore the history and purpose of the NHF, how both local and diaspora Nigerians can benefit, and the steps to register and access NHF services.

History of the NHF

The National Housing Fund (NHF) was established in 1992 by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the NHF Act of 1992. It was created to mobilize long-term funds from Nigerian workers, which are then used to provide affordable housing loans through accredited mortgage institutions.

For over three decades, the NHF has played a key role in improving housing accessibility by offering low-interest mortgage loans to Nigerians who want to buy, build, or renovate their homes.

What is the NHF?

The National Housing Fund (NHF) is a government-backed initiative that allows Nigerian workers to contribute a portion of their income to a housing fund. These contributions make them eligible for low-interest mortgage loans provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN).

The primary goal of the NHF is to ensure that affordable housing is within reach for Nigerian workers, particularly those in the middle and working class.

How Does the NHF Work?

The NHF operates as a contributory scheme where eligible individuals remit 2.5% of their monthly income into the fund. These contributions accumulate over time, allowing contributors to apply for housing loans at significantly lower interest rates compared to commercial banks.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Eligibility:
   • All Nigerians in paid employment (public or private sector) earning at least the minimum wage are required to contribute.
   • Self-employed individuals can also voluntarily participate.
2. Contribution:
   • Contributors remit 2.5% of their monthly salary to the NHF through the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN).
3. Loan Application:
   • After contributing for at least six months, individuals can apply for a mortgage loan through an accredited Primary Mortgage Bank (PMB).
4. Loan Terms:
   • NHF loans have a repayment period of up to 30 years, depending on the applicant’s age and financial capacity.

How to Register for NHF

To become an NHF contributor, an individual must complete the NHF Registration Form, which is available at:

• Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) offices nationwide.
• Accredited Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs).
• Online portals of mortgage institutions.

Once registered, the applicant is issued a unique NHF Number.

What is an NHF Number?

The NHF Number is a unique identifier assigned to each contributor. It is used for loan applications, contribution tracking, and balance inquiries.

How to Get an NHF Number

1. Visit an FMBN office or an accredited Primary Mortgage Bank (PMB).
2. Request and complete the NHF Registration Form.
3. Provide required documents (employment details, salary records, valid ID).
4. Start contributing 2.5% of your monthly income.
5. Receive your NHF Number upon successful registration.

How to Retrieve Your NHF Number

If you forget your NHF Number, you can retrieve it using:

1. USSD Code (Quick Method)

• Dial *219# and press send.
• Select Option 3 (Retrieve NHF Number) and send.
• Your NHF Number will be displayed.

2. Visit an FMBN Office or PMB

• Provide your full name and registered phone number.
• Request NHF Number retrieval.

3. Contact FMBN Customer Service

• Call the FMBN helpline and provide the necessary details.

4. Check Online (If Available)

• Some accredited mortgage institutions provide an online portal where you can log in to retrieve your NHF Number.

How to Check Your NHF Balance

Keeping track of your NHF contributions ensures that your records are up to date. Here are the ways to check your NHF balance:

1. Using the USSD Code

To check your NHF balance, dial *219# and follow these steps:

1. Dial *219# and send.
2. Select Option 2 (NHF Services) and send.
3. Select Option 1 (Check Contribution) and send.
4. Enter the exact month (1 to 12) you want to check and send.
5. If your contributions have been reconciled by FMBN, your balance will be displayed.
6. If not displayed, visit the nearest FMBN office for reconciliation.

2. Visit an FMBN Office

Walk into any FMBN branch with your NHF Number and request a statement of contributions.

3. Online Portal

Some mortgage institutions offer an online platform where contributors can log in and check their NHF balance.

4. Contact a Primary Mortgage Bank (PMB)

PMBs affiliated with FMBN can assist with balance inquiries.

Requirements for NHF Participation

To qualify for NHF and access mortgage loans, certain requirements must be met:

For Individual Contributors:

• Must be a Nigerian citizen above 18 years old.
• Must be employed (public/private sector) or self-employed.
• Must contribute 2.5% of monthly income.
• Must possess a valid NHF Number.
• Must provide proof of employment and income.

For Mortgage Loan Applicants:

• Must have contributed for at least six months.
• Must apply through an accredited PMB.
• Must provide a valid ID, proof of income, and property details.

For Diaspora Contributors:

• Must be a Nigerian living abroad.
• Must contribute in foreign currency.
• Must provide proof of employment or business in their country of residence.

How Jubilee-Life Mortgage Bank Plc Can Help

At Jubilee-Life Mortgage Bank, we help Nigerians secure their dream properties through flexible financing and access to affordable mortgages.

Conclusion

The National Housing Fund (NHF) is a powerful initiative designed to make homeownership affordable and accessible for Nigerian workers. By contributing a small percentage of your income, you become eligible for low-interest mortgage loans, helping you buy, build, or renovate your home with ease.

Ready to take advantage of NHF? Start your journey today!