Nigeria’s change mantra seen boosting economy, growing real estate sector

Change, arguably, means different things to different people depending on prevailing circumstances, but for Nigeria and Nigerians, in the context of the new political dispensation in the country, the underlying meaning of change is simply a break from the past.

Expectations are therefore, high in this country that the incoming administration, which embodies that change, will not only concretise that break, but also define a new direction that will lead to national rebirth and economic growth.

From their respective locations and dispositions, individuals, institutions, corporate bodies and sundry businesses are examining this change mantra along with its possibilities and capabilities if faithfully and realistically followed through.

Perhaps, in no other sector of the economy is the need for this change more fundamental and more urgent than it is in real estate which has been identified by stakeholders and even government as a growth sector that needs only a change in policy decisions to jumpstart growth and development.

“At Fine and Country West Africa, we anticipate that change will result in a further boost to the Nigerian economy and graduate steadily into growth and transformation in the Real Estate sector”, Maryanne Udo Okonjo, the Chairman/CEO of Fine and Country International (W.A), told BusinessDay in Lagos in response to expectations from the incoming government.

Udo Okonjo explained that this growth would come through as additional foundations were laid to inspire confidence in both local and foreign investors keen to participate in Africa’s biggest economy.

Fine and Country is a multi-award winning international real estate network reputed locally and globally for its unique blend of intelligent and creative marketing and branding services, a solid market research and property investment advisory service coupled with a professional approach to corporate sales and leasing of premium commercial and luxury residential properties.

The company sees itself as a corporate citizen and has assured that, consistent with the change it anticipates, “in 2015, we are keen to contribute actively to building the future of real estate by working with visionary developers to create real estate that not only addresses current needs but one that remains relevant in the future”.

Believing that in every one lies the capacity and possibility to birth a future and that “building the future we desire begins with you and I”, the CEO, hoped that the confidence reposed in this new government would lead to solid results.

“We must however, recognise that to build a vibrant, and sustainable democracy and economy, each one must rise to their full responsibility as citizens to actively support, contribute positively and, in turn, demand an accountable government at all levels”, she emphasised.

Speaking philosophically with historical references, Udo Okonjo noted that every work of art or building begins with a blueprint, a clear master plan and deliberate envisioning, especially when it is an iconic structure like the Renaissance masterpiece ‘David’ sculptured in 1501 by Michelangelo.

That also applied in building the Sydney Opera House described by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee as “one of the indisputable masterpieces of human creativity, not only in the 20th century but in the history of humankind” or the Empire State Building—the 102 storey tallest building in the world for a record 40 years by Architects William F. Lamb and Gregory Johnson.

CHUKA UROKO