The Chairman of Cavalli Group's Board of Directors, Sokipriye Graham-Douglas, has called on Nigerian authorities to make infrastructure development, social housing programs, and accessible mortgage systems their top priorities as practical solutions to the country's escalating housing shortage.
Infrastructure as Catalyst for Affordable Housing
Speaking during the inauguration of Cavalli Group's newly constituted board of directors on December 1, 2025, Graham-Douglas emphasized that government intervention must concentrate on affordability while private developers continue to drive luxury housing in major urban centers like Lagos.
He identified the core problem in Lagos's housing market as poor access to new districts that could accommodate cheaper homes. According to his analysis, improved road networks, particularly the ongoing coastal road project, could unlock areas such as Epe and Ibeju-Lekki for large-scale affordable housing developments.
"Infrastructure is key. If the government provides good access roads and basic utilities to places outside the metropolis, developers will naturally move there to build more affordable homes," Graham-Douglas stated during the event.
Three-Pronged Approach to Housing Solutions
On enabling low-income earners to access suitable housing, the business leader argued that affordability is relative and directly connected to citizens' economic well-being. "Government cannot put money directly into people's pockets, but it can create an enabling environment, good jobs, thriving businesses, and a strong economy. When people earn better, they can afford better," he explained.
Graham-Douglas stressed the necessity for deliberate investment in social housing, pointing to successful models in the United States and United Kingdom where governments construct and allocate housing units at minimal or no cost to qualified beneficiaries.
He also highlighted the critical importance of accessible mortgage systems, suggesting that "a decent mortgage of about N20 million repayable over 20 to 30 years can help thousands become homeowners." He urged authorities to regulate mortgage institutions to ensure loans reach those who genuinely need them.
Addressing Sector Constraints and Future Outlook
Outlining major constraints affecting Nigeria's housing sector, Graham-Douglas identified rising inflation, high construction costs, and heavy import duties on building materials as primary challenges. "Inflation affects every part of the economy, including construction. The government should also look into subsidising duties on imported building materials. Access to land for developers remains another major challenge," he added.
He maintained that with coordinated interventions in infrastructure development, mortgage accessibility, and cost reduction measures, the government could substantially narrow the country's housing deficit and expand homeownership opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
Regarding Cavalli Group's direction, Graham-Douglas reaffirmed the organization's commitment to excellence, innovation, and national relevance. "Cavalli Group is stepping into a new era of refined governance and strategic ambition," he announced. "After 15 years of sustained performance, the establishment of this board creates a stronger foundation for even greater achievements in real estate, investment, and enterprise development."
Group Managing Director Emmanuel Odemayowa characterized this transition as a pivotal inflection point in the company's trajectory, noting that the organization is entering a critical new phase demanding enhanced governance, deeper professional rigor, and leadership architecture capable of sustaining growth momentum.
