Chief Executive Officer of Africa International Housing Show, Festus Adebayo, has said the 19th edition of the exposition, with the theme, “Re-imagining Housing through innovation, collaboration and Policy,” holding in Abuja, would offer an unparalleled opportunity to forge connections with potential partners, investors, and policymakers who share the common vision for economic growth and development on the continent, especially in housing.
 
In his remarks, he said the “scale of the challenge before us is immense,” noting that Nigeria alone faces a staggering yet to be confirmed housing deficit estimated at over 28 million units, a stark reality that impacts millions of lives and hinders economic progress.
 
“Addressing this gap isn’t just about building houses, it’s about unlocking profound socio-economic benefits,” he added.
 
His words: “Imagine the millions of jobs created across the value chain, from construction to logistics and services. AIHS, in its last year’s edition, advocated the need for accurate housing data, and Nigeria’s Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, acted immediately after the event, setting up a National Housing Data Steering Committee to establish a National Housing Data Centre for Nigeria. This committee is expected to deliver an update on this very important project at this year’s AIHS.
 
Adebayo insisted that while financing is undoubtedly a crucial element, re-imagining housing requires a multi-faceted approach.
 
The sponsor, Dangote Cement Plc, in a statement by its spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, said the programme, which is hosting participants from 21 countries, offers a rare platform for firms to connect with key players in the housing industry across the continent. 
 
Chiejina said: “As the Housing Show brings together over 40,000 participants, including key industry leaders, government representatives and investors, Dangote Cement Plc will leverage this opportunity to directly showcase its innovative products to clients and decision makers.”
 
The statement said the company has consistently sponsored the show over the years, assuring that it would continue to partner with key stakeholders to support the provision of shelter in Africa.  
 
According to the statement, AIHS will help amplify the Dangote brand and boost strategic partnerships with stakeholders.
 
It said this year’s theme aptly resonates with the company’s core value. 
 
Furthermore, Adebayo said he was optimistic that the partnership with Dangote Cement Plc would address the narrative of housing shortfall in the country. 
 
Recall that the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) and other stakeholders in the housing industry had described Dangote Cement Plc as one of the major drivers of real estate development in Nigeria.