Harmony Gardens and Estate Development LTD, Tuesday, July 2, celebrated a significant milestone in the Nigerian real estate sector. The company hosted the inaugural Bridging Housing Deficit Summit 2024 (BHDSummit2024) and launched the highly anticipated Lekki Aviation Town Estate in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State.
The event began shortly before noon, with Gbenga Adeyinka as the master of ceremonies, setting a lively tone with his humorous remarks, delighting both local and international participants.
Hon. Dr. Audullahi Saheed Mosadoluwa, MD/CEO of Harmony Gardens and Estate Development LTD, delivered the opening speech, emphasizing the importance of addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit and the need for foreign experts to contribute to sustainable housing solutions.
“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 stressed the urgency of accelerating residential construction to address the widening gap between housing demand and supply, particularly in Lagos State, Abuja, and Asaba. They acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts through the Ministry of Housing’s Renew Hope Mass Housing Project, which aims to increase housing supply and stabilize rental housing vacancy rates by 2025.
Dr. Reuben Abati, the event’s moderator, 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,” featured panelists who discussed and proposed solutions to housing challenges.
Harmony Gardens’ brand ambassador, Abolore Akande, known as 9ice, delivered a professional musical performance that captivated the audience.
Subsequent sessions covered 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, moderated by Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo.
Notable dignitaries and panelists 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 artists, including Small Doctor, added vibrancy to the event. Brand ambassador Anita Joseph Olagunju thrilled guests with her Igbo dance steps. Top Fuji music stars Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere and Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma also entertained the audience. The event was graced by top socialite and real estate player Abu Abel, the Onibeju of Ibeju-Lekki, and many more, making it truly memorable.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.