Six firms, Edo government in pact for Emotan Gardens Phase II project

Hopes were rekindled last week on the rejuvenation of the real estate sector, following the signing of a major deal by six property firms for the development of affordable housing schemes in Edo State.

The agreement between Edo State Government through Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) and the six firms was for the development of affordable housing in Emotan Gardens Phase II.

EDPA Executive Chairman, Isoken Omo, in a statement, said the six shortlisted developers have been allocated five hectares each to commence the development of affordable housing targeted at the general public.

According to her, “In continuing with the promise of the current administration to change the landscape of the state, Edo State Government is handing over land at Emotan Gardens Estate to prequalified developers to commence Phase II of the project.”

Omo said the Phase 1 of the project was commissioned by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo in November 2018, adding that “the first phase is fully sold but was vandalised during the #ENDSARS riots.

“The houses have been repaired and are due for handover to the owners. To speed up the development, EDPA has shortlisted six developers and allocated five hectares each to them to commence the development of affordable housing targeted at the general public.”

She continued: “The integrity of the design and masterplan is being maintained and Lots are earmarked as plots for allocation too. The intention is that once each of the developers completes the development of their Lot, another Lot will be allocated to them.

“We have other developers that are currently being screened for allocation. The Edo State Government is providing the road and drainage infrastructure, while private sector partners will provide water and power.”

“Upon completion, the estate, which will be the biggest gated Estate in Benin City, will have 1,440 housing units, shopping area, leisure, school, police station, religious areas and other modern facilities to make it a cohesive community. It would create employment and regenerate the area,” Omo added.