Lagos-based property development firm Fountain Havens Limited has expressed concern over the shortage of skilled artisans required for housing construction in Nigeria, describing it as one of the major challenges facing the real estate industry.

Speaking during the handover of a new set of eight affordable luxury apartments to subscribers in Lagos, the company’s Head of Sales and Business Development, Mr Ruona Oghuvbu, said that despite a harsh economic environment and rising inflation, the project was completed within 17 months and delivered to quality standards.

He explained that the company operates by the principle of “under-promising and over-delivering,” which has continued to earn it the trust of its clients.

Oghuvbu, however, lamented the scarcity of competent artisans, noting that the shortage has forced developers to rely on workers from neighbouring countries.

“We had to bring in artisans from the Benin Republic to handle some specialised tasks. That’s one of the biggest challenges, managing the technical side of construction. The good news is that the government has recently approved free access to technical schools, which we hope will help bridge the skills gap,” he said.

He commended improvements in building approval timelines but described approval costs as still too high. He also highlighted difficulties in managing construction processes amid economic pressures and fluctuating material prices.

The newly completed project comprises four units of four-bedroom semi-detached apartments and four units of five-bedroom fully detached apartments, each with two boys’ quarters. Amenities include ample parking space, a central swimming pool and deck, gymnasium, dedicated transformer and generator, paved access road, top-tier security, and professional facility management.

Oghuvbu said the real estate sector remains one of the strongest contributors to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but more government support is needed to unlock its full potential.

“Government should provide single-digit loans to make funding more accessible and simplify title registration processes,” he said.

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to timely delivery, cost efficiency, and value for money. “Delivering value means completing projects on time, within budget, and at the quality promised,” he said.

Oghuvbu also urged the government to promote the use of local materials and create an enabling environment for industries that support the housing value chain to thrive.