ERCAAN President Emphasizes Ethics and Professionalism for Real Estate Sector
In a bid to enhance global competitiveness, Johnson Ajikan, the National President of the Estate Rent & Commission Agents Association of Nigeria (ERCAAN), has called on members to adopt high standards of ethics and professionalism. This appeal was made during the association's recent national conference held in Lagos, where Ajikan highlighted the real estate sector as a crucial pillar of Nigeria's economy.
Conference Theme and Key Messages
The conference, themed 'Repositioning agency practice in a changing real estate market: Challenges, ethics, technology, tax and professional growth,' served as a platform for addressing critical issues. Ajikan urged every ERCAAN member to remain dedicated to unity, professionalism, and ethical conduct. He stressed that collective efforts could lead to a stronger, more respected, and better-organized association capable of enduring challenges over time.
Challenges in the Real Estate Industry
Ajikan identified several obstacles facing the industry, including the activities of unregistered practitioners, inadequate regulation in certain areas, unethical practices by some individuals, and increasing concerns about transparency and professionalism in property transactions. He reiterated ERCAAN's mission to organize, regulate, and promote ethical standards among estate rent and commission agents nationwide, advising members to adhere strictly to the association's constitution.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement
Furthermore, Ajikan tasked members with working closely with government authorities, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders in the real estate sector. This collaboration aims to tackle pressing issues such as housing shortages, property fraud, conflicts involving multiple agencies, and disputes between tenants and landlords. He emphasized that proactive engagement is essential for fostering a more robust and trustworthy industry environment.
Insights from NIESV Representative
During the event, Ayodele Olamoju, Assistant National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), delivered a lecture urging members to uphold integrity at all times. On the topic of tax laws, Olamoju suggested that compliance not only helps avoid sanctions but also enhances corporate integrity, making agents more appealing to institutional and international clients.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, Ajikan observed that Nigeria's real estate market is at a critical juncture, characterized by significant growth potential and transformative pressures. He advised that the agency profession must respond to these changes with integrity, innovation, and intelligence. Repositioning agency practice in Nigeria, he noted, requires a strategic alignment of ethics, technology, and professional development to ensure sustainable progress and global relevance.
