Esso Properties Limited, an integrated real estate development company with footprints across several Nigerian states, has been named the Most Innovative Real Estate Company in Nigeria at the 9th City People Real Estate Awards 2024. The award, presented on November 24, 2024, recognizes the firm’s groundbreaking contribution to luxury living through its flagship development, Awele Residential Estate.
The company is led by Dr. Smith Ezenagu, a business startup coach and chairman of Esso Group, a conglomerate with interests in real estate, finance, and education. Speaking after the award, Ezenagu said the recognition was not just a win for the company but a celebration of cultural identity, bold ideas, and sustainable innovation.
“We created Awele Residential as a lifestyle experience, not just an estate,” he said. “It’s a perfect blend of Eastern culture and modern luxury. The design reflects the taste, pride, and heritage of Igbo people, delivered through cutting-edge architecture and smart infrastructure.”
Awele Residential Estate, located in Anambra, is the project that earned Esso Properties its latest accolade. Designed for what Ezenagu describes as the “Odogwu class”, high-net-worth individuals who appreciate both heritage and luxury. The estate offers a unique living experience steeped in Eastern tradition.
It features rainwater harvesting systems, green roofs, solar-powered homes, botanical gardens, community theaters, cultural museums, and pedestrian-friendly streets. According to Ezenagu, the goal is to create not just homes, but a thriving community where Eastern pride is lived and shared.
“Awele is for those who play hard because they’ve worked hard,” Ezenagu explained. “We’re building something you’ll be proud to show to your friends flying in from London or Atlanta.”
The award comes at a time when Nigeria’s real estate sector faces unprecedented challenges. Inflation, unstable exchange rates, and soaring costs of building materials have led many developers to abandon their projects. Ezenagu, however, believes that strategic planning, transparency, and a deep understanding of the market can help developers weather the storm.
“Cement prices rose from N6,000 to N8,500 in a week. Sand prices nearly tripled in just three months. These are huge challenges,” he said. “But we are committed to delivering value without compromising on quality. That’s why we introduced a bank-backed escrow system to guarantee project completion and earn the trust of our Diaspora clients.”
Esso Properties plans to expand the Awele Residential concept to other Eastern states, including Enugu, Abia, Imo, and Ebonyi. The estate’s pre-launch phase began in February, offering discounted plots, while the official launch took place on March 23, 2024. Dr. Smith Ezenagu emphasized that the Awele vision is centered not just on luxury but also on security and community, noting that despite the negative portrayal of the South East, the region remains safe and ripe for investment.
Esso Properties’ recent win at the 9th City People Real Estate Awards 2024 underscores its focus on luxury living and cultural pride. Under Ezenagu’s leadership, the company is pioneering innovative projects like Awele Residential Estate, aiming to reshape the real estate landscape in Eastern Nigeria with a blend of modern design and sustainability.
