The National Housing Fund (NHF) loan is among the cheapest ways to allow Nigerians to purchase a home. It is managed through the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN); this loan permits those who contribute to the National Housing Fund to construct, purchase, or renovate residential property with the fixed 6 percent interest rate.
But one of the main causes of delays in applications or refusals is inadequate documents. In order to ensure smooth processing, applicants must collect and submit all the required documentation prior to visiting an approved Primary Mortgage Bank (PMB).
This guide gives a comprehensive listing of documents required to submit an application for an NHF loan, with the importance of each document and tips for submitting.
What Is the NHF Loan?
The NHF Loan is an affordable housing loan that is backed by the government for those who contribute under the National Housing Fund Act (1992). Every self-employed or registered employee Nigerian is required to contribute 2.5 percent of their basic monthly pay towards the NHF Fund.
After a minimum of six months, a person can apply for a home loan via any mortgage bank with an FMBN accreditation. The loan is able to be used for:
- The purchase of a fully furnished residential property.
- Construct a brand new house on your own land.
- Remodel an existing house.
The loan can be used for up to 15 million per borrower, with a flexible repayment term of the duration of thirty years dependent on the applicant’s income as well as their age.
Required Documents for NHF Loan Application
Below is the complete list of documents required when applying for the NHF housing loan. These documents must be submitted to an accredited Primary Mortgage Bank (PMB) for processing.
1. Completed NHF Loan Application Form
This is the official form obtained from your PMB. It captures personal, employment, property, and financial details. Ensure all information provided is accurate and consistent with your supporting documents. click her to download the NHF form
2. NHF Registration Evidence
Provide your NHF number and proof of contribution. This shows your participation in the scheme and confirms your eligibility.
3. Proof of Identity
Acceptable forms of identification include:
- National Identity Card (NIN slip or card)
- Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC)
- International Passport
- Driver’s License
This helps FMBN verify your identity as a registered citizen.
4. Passport Photographs
Provide at least two recent passport photographs. They will be attached to your application file and loan documents.
5. Evidence of Income
You must prove your ability to repay the loan. Depending on your employment type:
- Salaried Workers: Submit your payslips for the last 3–6 months, employment letter, or confirmation letter.
- Self-Employed Applicants: Submit audited financial statements, business registration documents, and recent bank statements (at least 6 months).
6. Tax Clearance Certificate
Provide your Personal Income Tax Clearance Certificate (PITCC) or evidence of tax payment. It confirms compliance with government tax obligations.
7. Title Documents of the Property
This is one of the most important documents. It verifies ownership or authorization to build on the land. Acceptable titles include:
- Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
- Deed of Assignment
- Deed of Sublease or Gift
- Right of Occupancy (R of O)
- Registered Survey Plan
If you’re buying an existing house, include the property’s sales agreement or offer letter.
8. Approved Building Plan or Valuation Report
- For construction loans, provide a government-approved building plan and a bill of quantities (BoQ).
- For purchase loans, submit a valuation report prepared by a certified estate valuer.
This ensures the property meets planning standards and aligns with the loan amount.
9. Equity Contribution Evidence
Depending on the loan size, applicants must make a 10–30% equity contribution:
- 10% for loans below ₦5 million
- 20% for ₦5–₦10 million
- 30% for ₦10–₦15 million
Provide proof of this deposit (bank teller, receipt, or transfer slip).
10. Bank Reference or Statement of Account
Provide a reference letter from your bank or submit your bank statement for at least six months. This confirms your financial history and repayment capacity.
11. Employer or Guarantor Letter
If you are employed, your organization must issue a letter of introduction confirming your employment status and salary.
For self-employed applicants, provide a guarantor’s letter from a reputable person or business partner.
12. Utility Bill or Proof of Residence
Include a recent utility bill (electricity, water, or internet bill) to verify your residential address.
Optional Supporting Documents
In certain cases the documentation needed:
- Certificate of marriage (if you are applying jointly in conjunction with spouse)
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Letter of allocation for land (for government housing programs)
- Construction Contract Agreement (for the construction of new structures)
Timelines for Document Submission
- Preparation Time: 2-3 weeks (depending on the accessibility of documents)
- Mortgage Bank Review: 4-8 weeks for initial verification
- AMBN Process: 6-12 weeks for approval and distribution
Check that all documents Ensure that all documents are in good order and current. Also, ensure that all documents are properly completed prior to submission in order to ensure that there are no delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting photocopies that are not certified (“Certified True Copy” is required to be submitted for land titles).
- Use of different names or signatures on different documents.
- The absence of crucial documents such as the evidence of equity contributions as well as tax clearance.
- Not completing the minimum six-month NHF participation period.
Summary Table
| Document Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| NHF Application Form | Official loan request |
| NHF Number / Contribution Record | Verifies NHF participation |
| Proof of Identity | Confirms applicant’s identity |
| Passport Photos | Identification for loan file |
| Income Evidence | Assesses repayment capacity |
| Tax Clearance | Confirms tax compliance |
| Title Documents | Verifies land/property ownership |
| Building Plan / Valuation | Validates project cost and design |
| Equity Contribution Proof | Confirms applicant’s commitment |
| Bank Reference | Verifies financial reliability |
| Employer/Guarantor Letter | Confirms employment or backing |
| Utility Bill | Verifies residential address |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many months must I contribute before applying?
At least six months of consistent NHF contribution is required. - Can I apply if I’m self-employed?
Yes, but you must show business registration and steady income proof. - Do I need all documents for renovation loans?
Some documents (like title or building plan) may be simplified, but proof of ownership and NHF record remain mandatory. - Who issues the NHF number?
The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria issues NHF numbers upon registration. - Can I apply jointly with my spouse?
Yes. Both spouses must submit individual NHF numbers and joint income documents. - Is equity contribution refundable?
No. It forms part of your loan repayment structure. - What happens if I lose my NHF number?
You can retrieve it through your PMB or the FMBN portal. - Do I need to notarize documents?
Yes. Land and title documents should be certified or notarized for authenticity. - Can I use the loan to buy land only?
No. NHF loans are only for housing construction, purchase, or renovation. - How long does approval take after document submission?
Typically 2–3 months, depending on the completeness of your application.
Conclusion
The preparation of the proper documents to support the NHF request is an essential step towards success in getting approval. By ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and consistency across all forms, you will speed up loan approval and get that dream house. Always choose an approved primary mortgage bank and check all the information before submitting.
Disclaimer
This article is meant for educational reasons only. FederalGrantsInfo.com does not process NHF loans or collect applications. Always make an application through mortgage banks as well as official FMBN channels.