It was a moment of joy and happiness for realtors, stakeholders, prospective customers, and attendees on Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024, as Harmony Gardens and Estate Development LTD hosted the maiden edition of its annual Bridging Housing Deficit Summit 2024 (BHDSummit2024) and the grand launch of the highly anticipated Lekki Aviation Town Estate, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State. The event, held at the estate premises, marked a significant milestone in the Nigerian real estate sector.
The event kicked off a few minutes before noon, with Gbenga Adeyinka, the master of ceremonies, setting a lively tone with his hilarious remarks that had both local and international participants bursting into laughter.
Hon. Dr. Audullahi Saheed Mosadoluwa, MD/CEO of Harmony Gardens and Estate Development LTD, delivered the opening speech. The energetic real estate expert explained the rationale behind organizing the summit and the importance of inviting foreign experts to address Nigeria’s housing deficit.
“Bridging the housing deficit is part of navigating economic challenges, and the only solution is to provide a platform for sustainable housing development that ensures adequate, secure, and affordable housing,” Dr. Mosadoluwa stated. “Home ownership can be complex, but there are strategies to consider. That’s why I brought in experts from different parts of the world, leaders, captains of industry, and stakeholders to debate and offer solutions to these problems.”
Harmony Gardens’ management emphasized the urgent need to accelerate residential construction to curb the widening gap between housing demand and supply, particularly in Lagos State, Abuja, and Asaba. The company acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts through the Ministry of Housing’s Renew Hope Mass Housing Project, which aims to significantly increase housing supply and stabilize rental housing vacancy rates by 2025.
The event’s moderator, Dr. Reuben Abati, ensured robust and insightful discussions, while hosts Mrs. Kikelomo Atanda-Owo and Nollywood actress Nancy Isime carried out their duties with aplomb.
The first session, “Solution to Inadequate Housing for Nigerians: Strategies, Commitments, and Innovation for Sustainable Housing,” saw panelists discussed and proposed solutions to housing challenges.
Harmony Gardens’ brand ambassador, Abolore Akande, popularly known as 9ice, delivered a professional musical performance that captivated the audience.
Subsequent sessions addressed topics such as fostering inclusive nature-based solutions for low-income Nigerians, building inclusive cities and solidarity communities around the Free Trade Zone, and innovative housing for the urban population. Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo moderated these segments.
Dignitaries and panelists at the event included May Christopher Lance, MD/CEO of Golden Trust Capital UK, Roger Fysh, MD of HBSI LTD UK, H.E. Dr. Sania A. Ansari, Chairperson of the Ansari Group United Arab Emirates, HRM Alh. Dr. Yahaya Abubakar CFR, Etsu of Nupe, Mrs. Feyisola Adeyemi, CEO of Luxury by Feyi UK, HRM Alh. Dr. Usman Nga-Kupi, Sa’ Peyi of Garki HRM, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, Iyaloja of Lagos, Mr. Mogaji Wole Aare Arisekola, RTEAN boss,Alh. Dr. Musa M. Maitakobi, Amanda Muesli, Founder/CEO of Green Tech Global & Natrix Holdings Swiss/Thailand, Mrs. Sandra Foster Joane, Principal Managing Partner of Avaero Capital Partners UK, Mr. Rana Shoaib, City & Regional Planner/NbS for Housing Sector Researcher, Abdul Razzaq Town Planner CPC Pakistan, Dr. Emmanuel A. Abikoye, President of Billionaire Realtor Group (BRG) and Co-founder of Tribitat Real Estate, and Dr. Tony Kolawole Aspire, Chairman of REDAN Lagos State Chapter.
Musical performances from various artistes, including Small Doctor, added vibrancy to the event. Brand ambassador Anita Joseph Olagunju thrilled guests with her Igbo dance steps. The presence of top Fuji music stars Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere and Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma was also felt by the audience. Top socialite and real estate player Abu Abel, along with the Onibeju of Ibeju-Lekki, and many more graced the event, making it truly memorable.