Developer Urges Strict Building Standards to Tackle Housing Deficit in Lagos
A prominent property firm, Messrs Makarios Luxury Properties Limited, has issued a strong call for strict adherence to building standards in Nigeria. This initiative aims to curb the alarming incidents of building collapses while simultaneously delivering high-quality housing solutions to Nigerians both at home and abroad.
Call for Quality Construction Amid Rapid Urban Growth
Chairman Matthew Ashimolowo made this appeal during the official launch and groundbreaking ceremony for two major projects: Makarios Champions Place and The Villagio Apartments in Lagos. He reaffirmed the company's unwavering commitment to constructing homes that seamlessly blend functionality, liveability, and luxury within secure environments.
Ashimolowo highlighted the urgent need for developers to prioritize quality construction, noting that Lagos is projected to become one of the world's largest cities by 2050, with an estimated population soaring to about 40 million. He pointed out that the city's robust economic growth presents significant opportunities for real estate investment, particularly for diaspora Nigerians seeking reliable housing assets, including short-let and Airbnb options.
"We are committed to maintaining standards. We have a name to protect, and we will not build structures that could fail. Each building will be supported by deep piling systems to ensure structural integrity," Ashimolowo emphasized, stressing that the firm's reputation is intrinsically tied to delivering safe and durable buildings.
Details of the New Developments
Makarios Champions Place, strategically located along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, spans approximately 23 hectares, equivalent to about 58 acres. The development comprises between 450 and 470 plots, with around 70 already subscribed. It will feature 11 high-rise towers, each standing about 10 floors tall, offering between 16 and 22 apartments per building. The units will include a diverse mix of two, three, four, and five-bedroom configurations.
The estate is designed to be a self-sufficient community, with plans for a wide array of amenities such as a water park, lush gardens, a retail mall, restaurants, entertainment centres, a central sewage system, reliable water supply, efficient waste management systems, recreational spaces, solar-powered electricity, and a well-connected road network.
Ashimolowo explained that the development is crafted to foster community living, built around the core concept of "family, friendship, fun and football," which is reflected in the estate's thoughtful layout and street naming. The Villagio Apartments, described as "an estate within an estate," will offer a more compact luxury option within the larger development.
Strategic Vision and Execution
Chief Operating Officer Oluwafemi Odunlami described the groundbreaking as a defining moment for the firm, marking the crucial transition from vision to execution. He stated that the projects are strategically aligned with the rapid growth of the Lekki-Epe corridor and are designed to create long-term value for both investors and residents.
"We are not just unveiling projects; we are demonstrating our commitment to delivery. These developments represent opportunity, quality and forward-thinking investment," Odunlami asserted.
Managing Director Oluwafemi Adeniba added that the company is leveraging global best practices to address Nigeria's persistent housing challenges. He emphasized that their focus extends beyond mere construction to creating integrated communities that combine security, functionality, serenity, and substantial investment value.
Ashimolowo also urged Nigerians to invest in the country, highlighting Lagos's pivotal economic role. According to him, the city contributes about 60 percent of business activities and over 65 percent of Value Added Tax revenue in Nigeria, underscoring its significance as a hub for economic and real estate opportunities.
