President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that a total of 800 housing units will be developed in Lhaviyani Naifaru, doubling the number pledged in his manifesto.

Speaking to residents of Naifaru during his visit to the island, the President said housing remains the most pressing issue for the densely populated island. He noted that an agreement for the construction of 300 housing units was signed shortly before his address, while another 100 units will be contracted soon. In addition, 400 more units are planned for 2027, bringing the total to 800 homes. The President said most of these units will be completed before the end of his current term.

President Dr Muizzu also announced that road development works on the island will be carried out in a single phase.

Highlighting Naifaru’s importance as an emerging urban centre, the President said the Government will reclaim 45 hectares of land to support sustainable development and meet growing space needs. He assured full Government backing for the project and promised it would be completed without delays.

Speaking about infrastructure, the President noted that Naifaru’s harbour, which was once largest in the Maldives, will be upgraded to meet community needs. An agreement for the harbour development was signed the same day, and the President said the upgraded facility will once again become the biggest in northern Maldives, benefiting both fishermen and the wider community.

The President also announced several other initiatives for the island, including the construction of a new sports complex, a slipway, and an Islamic Centre. He further highlighted plans to strengthen the island’s education sector, noting that an agreement for a Maldives National University (MNU) campus, part of his presidential pledges, was signed on the same day. Plans are also underway to establish an Islamic University Maldives (IUM) campus and student dormitory, positioning Naifaru as a leading educational hub.

The President said the island’s main school, one of the oldest in the country, will also be upgraded this year with ten new classrooms and laboratories.

In the health sector, President Dr Muizzu announced an extension to the island's hospital and confirmed that a speech therapist will soon be stationed in Naifaru as part of the Health Ministry’s nationwide recruitment drive. He also said the hospital will be upgraded into a state-of-the-art 50-bed facility.

As part of the hospital upgrade, the President revealed that CT and MRI scan services will be introduced within the next four months, under the Government’s nationwide plan to expand access to advanced diagnostic services.