Lagos: Real estate industry stakeholders have called for a shift to sustainability-driven urban planning to drive futuristic development of Nigeria's housing industry.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the stakeholders made the call on Tuesday during the July edition of the SmartCity Engage webinar series, themed 'Unmasking the Mirage: Why Our Cities Fail Before They Are Built'. They emphasized the need for stronger technical skills across the building ecosystem and improved government commitment.
Mr Olawale Ayilara, CEO of Landwey Investment Ltd., highlighted that technology and sustainability must guide the functional program of how communities should be structured and developed. Ayilara pointed out that Lagos' limited land mass necessitates a vertical building style over unchecked horizontal expansion and advocated for greener design rules, including roadside tree cover for developments along major corridors. He also stressed the importance of converting sensitive zones into conservation areas to achieve long-term benefits.
Ayilara called attention to the shortage of skilled artisans and urged technical and vocational colleges to focus on competencies aligned with global sustainability trends. He proposed that Public Private Partnerships (PPP) should concentrate on supporting the country's production sector to bolster the real estate value chain.
Sir Demola Aladekomo, Chairman of SmartCity Plc, echoed the call for intentionality and sustainability in building models within the real estate sector. He underscored the necessity of establishing technical colleges to train artisans in providing valuable services to the industry and emphasized that technical skills should take precedence over formal certificates.
Dr. Tope Mark-Odigie highlighted the importance of real estate discussions in raising awareness and countering misinformation in the property market. Mark-Odigie argued that these conversations should help individuals recognize opportunities, avoid deceptive practices, and unveil illusions within the market.
Prof. Roger Tai, a Chinese consultant with SmartCity Resorts Plc, stressed the need for government commitment and citizen trust to position Nigeria as a benchmark for sustainable real estate development in Africa.