The Nation Newspaper

Category: Property

  • Court grants interim injunction in Hampton Estate dispute

    Court grants interim injunction in Hampton Estate dispute

    The Lagos State High Court sitting at Tapa has granted an interim injunction restraining real estate developer, Kennedy Okonkwo, his company Capital Gardens Limited, and media personality Azuka Francisca Ogujiuba from further publishing or republishing allegedly defamatory statements against Ikenna Jideofor and Adewale Oladapo.

    The interim injunction, which is to last for 14 days from the date of the order, was granted pending compliance with pre-action protocols, the filing of the substantive suit, and the hearing and determination of any motion for an interlocutory injunction.

    The court barred the defendants from disseminating further versions of two publications dated May 23 and 28, 2025.

    The publications are entitled: “Beware of Buying Hampton Estate from Ikenna Jideofor & Adewale Oladapo,” and “Beware: Ikenna Jideofor of Premium Homes and Adewale Oladapo of Oretol are hurriedly building on lands they do not own.”

    Justice T.B. Sunmonu made the order after being satisfied that there was real urgency in the matter and that irreparable harm could occur if the reliefs sought were not granted.

    The court also held that granting the injunction was in the interest of justice.

    The suit was instituted by Ikenna Jideofor Ogbu and Premium Homes and Property Consultant Ltd (the Claimants/Applicants) through their counsel, Adedayo Adedeji (SAN), in Suit No. LD/5250CMW/2025.

    In the ex-parte motion, brought pursuant to Orders 42 and 43 of the Lagos State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019, and the Expeditious Disposal of Civil Cases Practice Direction No. 2 of 2019, the applicants sought multiple reliefs.

    Read Also: Court restrains defendants from Hampton estate land sale

    Among the orders granted by the court were: “An interim injunction restraining the defendants and their agents or privies from further publishing or causing to be republished the alleged defamatory statements mentioned above.

    “An order compelling the defendants to retract all defamatory posts made against the claimants on social media and electronic platforms, particularly on the third defendant’s Instagram handle, @mediaroomhub.

    “An order directing service of the interim injunction through publication in two widely circulated national newspapers and on all electronic and social media platforms where the defamatory publications appeared.”

    The orders are to remain in force for 14 days, inclusive of the date the ruling was delivered.

  • Ministry pledges commitment to welfare, reward staff

    Ministry pledges commitment to welfare, reward staff

    Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has demonstrated its commitment to welfare and excellent service delivery by rewarding outstanding workers.

    Musa Dangiwa, the minister, has named Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Dr. Bamidele Kogbe, who, earlier won Head of Civil Service of the Federation EPIC Culture Award at 2025 Civil Service Week in Abuja, as staff of the year.

    At a reception for Kogbe, Dangiwa said the staff recognition reflects the ministry’s gratitude to workers for their dedication and value addition.

    He noted that Kogbe’s performance and commitment to his work made him deserving of the honour.

    Describing Kogbe as a diligent public servant with enviable virtues, Dangiwa encouraged others to emulate his exemplary conduct.

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    Speaking with reporters, Dr. Kogbe said: “This year’s Civil Service Week has reflected our world-class vision, and I am honoured to receive the Head of Civil Service of the Federation’s Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible, and Citizen-Centred (EPIC) Award. It is a privilege and one that I do not take lightly. I feel grateful for this national recognition, which is not just an accolade, but a call to greater service.”

    “I believe no one will develop Nigeria for us — it is our responsibility to build the nation of our dreams. Nigeria is destined for greatness, but that can only be fulfilled when we commit to drawing out the best of our country.”

    “I thank God for the grace and strength to serve. I appreciate the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Esther Didi Walson-Jack, for the process through which this award was conferred. This energises me further — to be efficient, productive, incorruptible, and citizen-centred in my service to the the nation,” he added.

  • Firm promises trust in housing delivery

    Firm promises trust in housing delivery

    Powell Homes and Shelters  Limited has promised to redefine the housing experience through trust, professionalism, and value delivery. It spoke during its 2025 Mid-Year Realtors’ Feast with over 1,000 realtors at the International Conference Centre in Enugu.

    The gathering was a celebration of hard work and consistency and a  reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s real estate with integrity, innovation, and human touch.

    Managing Director, Chibuikem Onyekachi, said: “We started this journey with a sense of purpose — to transform the housing experience for sellers and buyers”

     “What we’re building isn’t just property; we’re nurturing trust, creating opportunities, and opening doors to a better future. Our belief is that when people access decent shelter, they become more confident and productive. That’s the difference Powell Homes makes — one home at a time.”

    The Realtors’ Feast, held twice annually, serves as a reward platform and a knowledge-sharing hub. Through this event, the company motivates and empowers its partners—many of who are young entrepreneurs and students—who have contributed to its property sales success. “Today, we are distributing five  new cars as well as iPhones, refrigerators, TV sets, and more to our realtors and staff,” Onyekachi noted. “This is our way of saying thank you to those who believe in our dream and make it theirs.”

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    Anikworji Joel, a 600-level Dentistry and Surgery student at University of Nigeria, Nsukka, got a car for his sales performance. “Being gifted with this car feels like a dream,” Joel said. “I joined Powell Homes not knowing what to expect, but I found a team that welcomed and guided me. Being a student and achieving this shows that hard work pays.”

    The event also featured veteran Nollywood actress and Powell Homes brand ambassador, Patience Ozokwo (Mama G), who praised the company’s commitment to making decent housing accessible. “Powell Homes is not just another real estate company. It has a human face, and that’s what makes them stand out,” she said. “They reward people who work hard, they value effort and sincerity, and that’s the kind of energy Nigeria needs right now.”

    She lauded Onyekachi for building a brand that elevates realtors and delivers trustworthy services. Over 200 realtors were rewarded with iPhones 12 and 14, refrigerators, microwaves, TV sets, electric fans, and others.

  • UNN final-year student, others win cars in Powell Homes realtors’ reward scheme

    UNN final-year student, others win cars in Powell Homes realtors’ reward scheme

    A 600-level student of Dentistry and Surgery at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Anikworji Chukwuemeka Joel, has emerged among the top-performing realtors honoured with brand-new car prizes by Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd for outstanding performance in marketing the company’s estates across Nigeria.

    Joel and four others received the car gifts during the real estate firm’s Mid-Year Realtors’ Feast, held at the International Conference Centre, Independence Layout, Enugu. Several other realtors were also rewarded with iPhones, refrigerators, generators, and home appliances for their exceptional efforts.

    Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Powell Homes, Architect Chibuikem Emmanuel Onyekachi, said the initiative was part of the company’s commitment to reward hard work and motivate its realtors.

    “This is our way of encouraging those who have gone the extra mile in helping us grow and reach more clients across the country,” he said.

    Onyekachi reiterated the company’s dedication to professionalism, innovation, and customer satisfaction in real estate development. He also noted that the biannual reward programme is designed to empower and retain top-performing staff and partners as the company expands its footprint nationwide.

    According to him, “We started this journey with a clear sense of purpose — to transform the housing experience for both the sellers and the buyers.

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    “What we’re building isn’t just property; we’re nurturing trust, creating opportunities, and opening doors to a better future.

    “Our belief is that when people are empowered through access to decent shelter, they become more confident and productive. That’s the kind of difference Powell Homes wants to make — one home at a time.”

    “Realtors’ Feast, which happens twice a year, is an avenue where we give items to our reliable and hardworking realtors, staff, and partners.

    “It is a reward mechanism and a platform for bonding and exchange of progressive ideas.

    “Today, we are distributing 5 brand-new cars as well as other items such as iPhones, TV sets, refrigerators, and other home appliances to our active realtors, staff, and partners. We even go all out to say ‘thank you’ to those who believe in our dream and make it their own.

    “This year’s turnout of over 1,000 active real estate partners, who are mostly young persons, shows that many young Nigerians are committed to solving housing problems with integrity and sincerity, and we are proud to walk that journey with them,” he further stated.

    Also speaking, Veteran Nollywood actress and brand ambassador of Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd, Mrs. Patience Ozokwo, popularly known as Mama G, praised the company for making housing a realistic dream for many young Nigerians.

    She stated that the company had provided an opportunity for realtors and other real estate practitioners to take pride in the value they are offering society, while also praising their top-notch customer care services.

    She also applauded Architect Onyekachi for his commitment to providing trustworthy services for customers, adding that he has distinguished himself amongst others in the real estate sector.

    Speaking on behalf of other winners, the student, Mr. Anikworji Chukwuemeka Joel, expressed surprise and joy, calling the reward a motivation to do more in the real estate space.

    “Being gifted with this car feels like a dream. I joined Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd not knowing what to expect, but I found a team that welcomed me and guided me.

    “Being a student and also part of something this big is very encouraging. It shows that hard work for the company really pays,” he said.

  • FG unveils homegrown tech to cut building costs, boost affordability

    FG unveils homegrown tech to cut building costs, boost affordability

    ‎The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is exploring new frontiers in cost-effective housing delivery following the presentation of innovative construction machines developed by Arc. Ibechile Christopher Egwudale, Director and Head of the Department of Federal Public Assets Maintenance.

    ‎Egwudale showcased a range of locally designed manual and semi-automated machines that promise to reduce construction costs and speed up delivery timelines, particularly for the ministry’s affordable housing initiatives.

    ‎The machines, which include interlocking Compressed Earth Block (CEB) moulders, pulverising and sifting equipment, sandcrete mixers, and even agro-processing tools such as ogbono seed cutters and hammer mills, were demonstrated before the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, and top ministry officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore.

    ‎“These machines leverage locally sourced materials to deliver sustainable and budget-friendly housing solutions. They are designed to empower artisans, create jobs, and promote eco-friendly building practices using CEB technology,” Egwudale said.

    ‎The minister, visibly impressed by the range and potential impact of the inventions, commended Egwudale for his ingenuity.

    ‎He urged him to continue with further research, explore areas for improvement, and submit a comprehensive report on how brick-based construction can be integrated into the federal government’s Social Housing Programme.

    ‎Dangiwa noted that innovations like this are key to the ministry’s vision of delivering affordable homes to Nigerians without compromising quality or sustainability.

    ‎Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Belgore, praised the director’s passion for innovation and urged him to submit prototypes of the brick housing units for official review and assessment.

    ‎Belgore noted that these innovations are a strategic push toward self-reliance and cost reduction in housing delivery, especially at a time when rising material costs threaten access to decent shelter for low- and middle-income earners.

  • Experts seek tougher measures to halt building collapse

    Experts seek tougher measures to halt building collapse

    The Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) has called for stricter regulatory measures following the collapse of 659 buildings nationwide, which has resulted in the deaths of 1,621 people.

    A former President of the BCPG, Mr. Kunle Awobodu, made the call in an interview during an inspection of a collapsed three-storey building on Awolowo Way, Ota-Ona area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.

    A couple reportedly lost two of their three children in the incident, and another relative which occurred on May 27.

    BCPG is made up of professionals from seven key disciplines.

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    They include the built environment sector, including engineers, builders, surveyors, architects, quantity surveyors, town planners, and estate surveyors and valuers

    Awobodu said the figures of deaths from building collapse represented reported incidences of collapses between October 1974 and June, 2025.

    He advised regulatory agencies to respond promptly to alerts from members, artisans, and other professionals in the built environment, in order to address irregularities that could lead to building collapse.

    “It is sad that in a nation we have had about 1,621 deaths from 659 collapsed building incidences, according to BCPG record.

    “The collapsed building in Ikorodu on Awolowo Way is the number 645, according to record.

    “Lagos accounts for 55.1 per cent of total collapsed buildings in Nigeria which makes it the epicentre of building collapse all over the world,” he said.

    According to him, there is a need for the government to intensify enforcement efforts, and he urged members not to be discouraged, in spite of often providing valuable information that is not taken seriously.

    Also speaking, Chairman of the BCPG Lagos State Chapter, Mr Joseph Akande, advised developers to always process building plans and obtain statutory documents, which served as authorisation to commence construction.

    Akande appealed to developers not to embark on construction without following the statutory procedures to avoid collapse of buildings to save lives and properties.

     “There is a need for more enforcement from government agencies saddled with regulation and permission of building construction,” he said.

    Coordinator BCPG Ikorodu cell, Mr Kazeem Isiaka, appealed to state government to carry out thorough investigation to know the root cause of the building collapse in Ikorodu before confiscating the site.

    He added that the BCPG would visit the bereaved families as part of its humanitarian service.

    In her reaction, Treasurer of the BCPG Lagos Chapter, Mrs. Faith Ezeugoh, appealed to contractors to avoid engaging quacks and to be willing to pay experts appropriately for proper supervision of building projects.

    Ezeugoh, a former Coordinator of the BCPG Ikorodu Chapter, also urged developers to conduct proper project valuation before embarking on construction, in order to engage qualified professionals and use quality building materials.

    Also speaking, Mrs. Olayinka Momoh of the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, urged the guild to help bridge the skills gap in the area of tile laying.

    Momoh emphasised the importance of assessing the capacity and competence of artisans hired for construction work to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.

    She also called on the government to continue training artisans and enhancing their capacity to help reduce building collapses in the country.

  • ‘Vacation-style living puts Hutu Exclusive Nigeria ahead’

    ‘Vacation-style living puts Hutu Exclusive Nigeria ahead’

    Hutu Exclusive Nigeria has attributed its strong market position to the rising demand for vacation-style living that blends luxury, relaxation, and modern amenities in residential developments across the country.

    In a statement, the company noted that Nigeria has witnessed a significant shift in residential preferences in recent years, with more homebuyers and investors gravitating towards homes that offer a resort-like experience.

    “Homebuyers today are no longer focused solely on acquiring properties—they are seeking lifestyles,” the company said. “The allure of vacation-style living lies in its promise of tranquillity, luxury, and a welcome escape from the bustle of city life.”

    Read Also: Firm integrates practical sustainability into Estate design

    According to Hutu Exclusive Nigeria, developers are responding to this trend by creating communities with private pools, wellness centres, green spaces, and other features that mirror the comfort of a holiday retreat.

    The company also highlighted the impact of platforms like Airbnb in transforming perceptions of property investment. “The popularity of short-term rentals has led to a surge in demand for vacation-style homes. Investors are taking advantage of this by purchasing properties in prime locations and converting them into short-let accommodations, generating attractive returns,” the statement read.

    Hutu Exclusive added that modern vacation-style developments increasingly incorporate wellness and sustainability features such as solar panels, artificial lakes, and golf courses, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and aligning with global trends.

    “The Nigerian diaspora is a major driver of this demand,” the company stated. “Many Nigerians abroad have experienced vacation-like living in developed countries and are investing in properties here that offer luxury while staying connected to their homeland.”

    Hutu Exclusive Nigeria said the boom in vacation-style living reflects a broader shift towards lifestyle-centric real estate and that the company is well-positioned to cater to these evolving preferences.

    “For prospective homeowners and investors, embracing this trend means securing properties that promise not just a home, but an elevated lifestyle,” the company added.

  • Periwinkle Empire tackles insecurity, power outages, other erratic services in Lagos

    Periwinkle Empire tackles insecurity, power outages, other erratic services in Lagos

    In a strategic and laudable effort to improve security, comfort and convenience, a real estate developer Periwinkle Empire has entered into key partnerships with three service providers to enhance infrastructure and lifestyle offerings at its Lekki Phase 1 estate in Lagos.

    Managing Director of Periwinkle Condos, Tunji Olatunji, gave this assistance in a statement to newsmen in Lagos on Friday.

    According to the statement, the collaboration which features Viathan Engineering Limited, Tsebo Solutions Nigeria, and Arksego Security Nigeria, is aimed at providing advanced security, uninterrupted power, world-class estate management systems to residents of the upscale estate.

    The statement reads: “We’re not just building homes; we’re crafting a lifestyle where comfort, convenience, and security are non-negotiable. With Viathan, Tsebo, and Arksego, we are setting a new benchmark for premium living in the world.

    “To address the persistent issue of unreliable electricity in Lagos, Viathan Engineering, an established energy solutions firm, has been engaged to provide 24-hour electricity.

    “The firm will deploy modern backup and smart distribution systems to ensure consistent power supply within the estate.

    “Facility operations and general estate management will be handled by Tsebo Solutions, a global leader in integrated facilities management.

    “Tsebo will be responsible for services such as landscaping, waste disposal, and concierge operations, delivered round-the-clock to maintain the estate’s premium standards.

    “In the area of safety, Arksego Security has been contracted to provide comprehensive protection, including 24-hour surveillance, armed patrols, and tech-enabled access control systems.

    “The firm will also deploy AI-powered CCTV monitoring tools to enhance rapid response in case of any security concerns.

    “With this approach, the Lekki Phase 1 Estate is positioned to compete among Lagos’s most sought-after addresses, combining reliable infrastructure with modern urban comforts.”

    Founded by billionaire developer Dr. Chiedu A. Nweke, who also created Orange Island, the company places a strong emphasis on sustainability, smart technology, and upscale urban living.

  • ‘Why building collapse persists’

    ‘Why building collapse persists’

    Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has blamed cases of building collapse in Nigeria to yet-to-be implemented 1992 Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law.

    Its National President, Dr Ogbonna Chime spoke in Awka, Anambra state during a town hall and leadership training on leadership roles in urban planning profession and its administration.

    He said the components of the law, drafted by Nigerians were enough guarantee against contributing factors to building collapse or other forms of mishaps in the building environment.

    According to Chime, the provisions that used to impede functional town planning activities as contained in the old law were corrected in the 1992 law.

    He insisted that for the country to move forward without records of building collapse, there was need for the implementation of the Law.

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    He said: “In 1992, Nigerians government in its wisdom crafted what we call 1992 Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law.

    “This law was drafted by our people for our people as against that of 1946 made by the colonial masters whose interest was more selfish than for the benefit of the Nigerian people.

    “Those provisions that used to impede functional town planning activities were corrected in the law drafted by Nigerian government.

    “Under this law, the Chairman of the Town Planning Authority at the local level and the Executive Secretary are all town planners.

    “Professionals in the building sector are also employed on part time basis to work with the team. These professionals are not only proactive, but ready to die for the truth.

    “The new law provides for all these and if the implementation has started, especially in parts of the country devoid of swamps, nobody will be talking about building collapse.

    “Under the same law, you have a Town Planner in the board at the state level, an Architect, land and quantity surveyors, estate manager and civil engineer.

    “When you have a collection of these professionals in the building environment, I believe that once the law is implemented, we won’t be talking about building collapse

    “Meanwhile, the Federal Government, a week ago, through the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development inaugurated a task force that overseas how building collapse can be prevented.”

    Emphasizing the importance of the training which included educating members on the expectations for effective functioning, Chime urged members to take the meeting seriously.

    State Chairman, Dr Nwofor Ben said the stakeholders meeting was opportunity for stakeholders and players in the field of physical planning to interact and iron out grey areas of planning profession for the benefit of the general public.

  • Group lauds Jigawa’s N19.6b housing project

    Group lauds Jigawa’s N19.6b housing project

    The Association of Housing Corporations of Nigeria (AHCN) has commended the bold move of the Jigawa State government for its recent approval of the sum of N19.6 billion for the development of new housing project in the state.

    The approval is targeted at developing 560 residential housing units across nine local government areas in the state which is part of the phase 2 of the state’s mass housing estate initiative of which 500 units were completed and delivered in the last one year.

    In  a statement co-signed by the President in Council, Eno Obongha and the Executive Secretary       Toye Eniola, they said the decision by the State Executive Council clearly depicts a strong commitment of Governor Umar Namadi’s administration to ameliorate housing challenges and accelerate the provision of affordable and quality homes for the citizens of the state.

    “We applaud this bold step taken by the government which will not only boost access to decent housing but will also stimulate job creation, improve urban infrastructure and foster inclusive growth, development and improved urban planning in the state’.

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    ‘We specifically hail the decision of Governor Namadi’s decision to saddle the state housing agency, the Jigawa State Housing Authority with the responsibility of delivering and supervising the project on behalf of the state government,” the statement read.

    They urged the state housing agency to embrace transparency, community engagement and collaboration with appropriate and tested private developers if need be, to ensure the funds achieve its maximum impact.

    They  further called on all other state governments to imitate Jigawa state by providing seed funds for their state housing agencies and support them adequately in their statutory responsibility of housing provision instead of saddling state ministry of housing with such which is outside policy formulation.

    They argued that the Association which was established in 1964 was in the fore front of mass housing with development of various housing estates in major state capitals across the federation until recently when most housing corporations saddled with various constraints  rendered them inactive.