Tag: Dr. Bisi Onasanya

  • Lagos, FirstBank, Guinness, The Address Homes, Swedish Government, Gobet247, Utilita, others Lead 9th AFRIMA Sponsorship Line-Up

    Lagos, FirstBank, Guinness, The Address Homes, Swedish Government, Gobet247, Utilita, others Lead 9th AFRIMA Sponsorship Line-Up

    The Lagos State Government, First Bank of Nigeria, Guinness Nigeria, The Address Homes, the Government of Sweden, Gobet247 and several other major organisations have thrown their weight as sponsors behind the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), scheduled to hold from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos.

    AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), unveiled its strong list of sponsors and partners, showing growing confidence in African music as a major cultural and economic force.

    The 9th edition, themed “Unstoppable Africa,” has attracted support from key sectors including finance, real estate, beverages, digital platforms, media, hospitality and international cultural institutions.

    Following the acceptance of Lagos State Government of the offer from the African Union, Lagos will once again serve as the Official Host City, reinforcing the state’s position as Africa’s leading creative and entertainment hub. With the strong backing of the awards from the Federal Government of Nigeria, the 9th AFRIMA promises to be hugely successful. The African Union Commission remains AFRIMA’s legacy Institutional Partner, supporting its mission to promote African music and culture across the continent and beyond.

    At the top level of sponsorship, fast-growing digital payments and lifestyle platform Utilita and leading gaming and entertainment brand Gobet247 are headlining the event as National Gold Sponsors.

    At the Silver level, First Bank of Nigeria, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) and The Address Homes have been confirmed as National Silver Partners. Guinness Nigeria joins as the Official Beer Sponsor, bringing added energy to this year’s festivities. AFRIMA also welcomes international cultural support from the British High Commission in Nigeria and the Embassy of Sweden, both serving as Cultural Exchange Partners.

    In travel and hospitality, Wakanow, Pan Atlantic Travels and Dorf Travels & Tours Ltd have been named the Official Travel Partners. Vaniti Lagos and Knowhere Restaurant will host nominees and special guests as Hospitality Partners. Popular youth culture platform Mainland Block Party Lagos is also supporting the celebration, adding street culture and community energy to the awards week at the AFRIMA Music Village holding at Ikeja City Mall on Friday, January 9,2026.

    AFRIMA has also confirmed a strong coalition of leading media organisations across radio, television, digital platforms, print, and Out-of-Home (OOH) channels as its Official Media Partners for the 9th Edition. These include DSTV/Multichoice, HIPTV, Afro Music Pop, Base FM, Beat FM, Classic FM, Hot FM, Kennis FM, Lagos Talks, Inspiration FM, Traffic Radio, Radio Lagos, Eko FM, and Lasgidi FM.

    Others on the partnership roster are The Culture Newspapers (TCN),Legit.ng, Max FM, Nigeria Info, Nigezie, Television Continental (TVC), and Yanga FM, along with top OOH companies led by MotoMedia, Yartview Ltd, Optimus Exposure, Plural Media, Folham Nigeria Limited and Nimbus Media.

    Speaking on FirstBank’s support, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, said the partnership aligns with the bank’s long-standing commitment to Africa’s creative industry.

    “At FirstBank, we are dedicated to promoting Africa’s vibrant creative industry, and our partnership with AFRIMA reflects this commitment. Through our First@Arts initiative, we have consistently supported projects across the creative value chain, nurturing talent and enabling production. In doing this, we preserve Africa’s rich cultural heritage while promoting unity, education and entertainment.”

    From the international community, H.E. Anna Westerholm, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to Nigeria, said, “Sweden is proud to join AFRIMA in celebrating the richness and global impact of African music. In 2026, we will mark 65 years of diplomatic relations with Nigeria, highlighting our strong ties. As the world’s third-largest music exporter, we believe in the power of collaboration and idea exchange. This partnership enhances our cultural and business connections, and we look forward to a meaningful week supporting the creative industries.”

    Also speaking, Yinka Bakare, Marketing and Innovations Director at Guinness Nigeria Plc, said the brand’s involvement reflects its deep roots in African culture.

    “Guinness has been woven into Africa’s most iconic cultural moments for decades, and our sponsorship of AFRIMA’s 9th edition reinforces that heritage. AFRIMA celebrates the extraordinary artistry that defines Africa, and we are proud to support a platform that showcases the continent’s greatness to the world.”

    Founder and Chairman of The Address Homes, Dr. Bisi Onasanya, described AFRIMA as an important platform for African creativity, collaboration and cultural identity expressions.

    “AFRIMA represents the spirit of African excellence and innovation. At The Address Homes, we believe that culture, creativity and enterprise must work together to drive sustainable growth. Supporting AFRIMA is our way of building and investing in Africa’s talents, strengthening cultural pride and opening new opportunities for creative young people and business partnerships across the continent.”

    Speaking during the sponsorship announcement in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, Ms. Edwidge Goli, Director of Partnerships at AFRIMA, described the sponsorship line-up as a strong vote of confidence in African music.

    “This is more than sponsorship. It is a historic show of belief in the power of African music, the brilliance of our talents and the future of our creative industries,” she said.

    She thanked the Lagos State Government for hosting the event again and praised the commitment of the Gold and Silver sponsors, as well as international partners and media organisations.

    The 9th AFRIMA will commence with the Nominees and Guests Welcome Soirees scheduled on January 7. This will be followed by the Africa Music Business Summit (AMBS) on January 8 at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, Nigeria.

    AFRIMA Music Village Concert and Diamond Showcase will take place on January 9 at the Ikeja City Mall, leading up to the grand Awards Ceremony on January 11 at the Eko Convention Centre at Eko Hotel, Lagos, Nigeria. Red carpet starts at 3:30 pm (WAT).

    The awards ceremony, along with major live performances, will be broadcast to audiences in over 84 countries worldwide.

  • Sanwo-Olu, Mbah, Ambode, others commiserate with AFRIMA, PRM Africa Boss, Mike Dada, on wife’s death

    Sanwo-Olu, Mbah, Ambode, others commiserate with AFRIMA, PRM Africa Boss, Mike Dada, on wife’s death

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his  Enugu State counterpart Governor Peter Mbah have joined the list of eminent personalities across Africa’s political and business circles who have commiserated with the President of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) and the Managing Director of PRM Africa Marketing and Communications Limited, Mike Dada, over the death of his loving wife, Modupe Temitope Dada.

    Modupe Dada, nee Baruwa, died peacefully on Saturday, October 19, 2024, and her death has continued to draw an outpouring of sympathy and commiseration from across Africa.

    Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu was one of the first to offer his condolences, calling Dada to offer comfort.

    The governor expressed deep sadness over the loss, saying Modupe was undoubtedly the pillar of support in the background of Dada’s towering achievements in Africa’s creative communication and media industries.

    Sanwo-Olu described the deceased, a banker of repute, as a woman whose strength was deeply felt, even from behind the scenes and the Governor urged Dada “to take solace in the beautiful memories of her life as her legacy of kindness and support would continue to live on. I stand in solidarity with you, sharing your grief and offering our heartfelt condolences. May God grant you and the entire family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.”.

    Enugu State Governor, Mbah, also commiserated with the family in a heartfelt message, saying  Modupe led a life of virtue.

    Mbah described Ijebu Ode-born banker as a woman of great character who provided stability and encouragement to her husband, while also building a warm and loving home.

    “The late Modupe was a virtuous woman and a pillar of support who played a crucial role in her husband’s career and personal life. Her death has left a significant void not only in your family but also among those who had the privilege of knowing her.

    “The people of Enugu share in the grief of your family and prayed for strength and comfort during this difficult time,” the Governor told Dada.

    Former Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, who had known Mrs Dada since his days as the state’s Accountant-General was among the early callers.

     Ambode commended Modupe’s quiet but profound impact on those around her, noting that she was a steadfast partner to her husband, especially in his efforts to promote African music and culture through AFRIMA. He prayed for peace and strength for the family to navigate through their loss.

    “She was an extraordinary partner and an exceptional woman, whose kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family will remain unforgettable. The support and partnership she provided throughout your journey were truly invaluable. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all,” he told Dada.

    Well-wishers from across Nigeria and Africa, including former ministers, top executives from the Advertising,media,tech and banking sectors, both current and retired diplomats and other captains of industry, have either called or visited the Ikeja GRA home of the Dada family to offer their condolences.

    They include former Minister of Information, Mr Lai Muhammed; Dr Bisi Onasanya, the Chairman of The Address Homes and former Group Managing Director of First Bank Nigeria Limited; the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Department of Training and Development, Frank Mba; media giant and politician, Aare Dele Momodu and Chairman, Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE), Eze Anaba.

    Others are Mr Olalekan Adebiyi, the Chairman of Laralek Ultimate Construction Limited; Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Lagos State, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho; former Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Lagos State, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, Executive Director, Sterling Bank, Mrs. Tunde Adeola; Former Commissioner of Tourism, Art and Culture, Mrs.Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf, and Mr Gbenga Adefaye, erstwhile President of the NGE among others.

    Many of them described Modupe as a virtuous woman whose humility and grace touched many lives.

    The remains of Modupe will be committed to Mother Earth on Thursday,   October 24, 2024, after a farewell service at the Grace Assembly, Yard 158, Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun-Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria.

  • The Address Homes Partners Lagos Govt on 3rd Real Estate Marketplace Confab, Exhibitions

    The Address Homes Partners Lagos Govt on 3rd Real Estate Marketplace Confab, Exhibitions

    As part of its contribution to the growth of the real estate sector in Nigeria, luxury property development company, The Address Homes has thrown its weight behind the 3rd Real Estate Market Place Conference and Exhibition put together by the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority, LASRERA.

    The event, which would be in the form of a Town Hall meeting with the theme: “The Lagos Real Estate Emerging Markets – Mitigating Potential Risks,” has been scheduled for Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th December 2022 at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-olu is expected to declare the event open on Tuesday 6th of December, 2022.

    Seasoned speakers are billed for this year’s Conference and Exhibition to deliberate on potential risks in Real Estate Transactions, Laws that protect Real Estate investment Transactions, and Policies and Guidelines about Lagos State Real Estate Sector.

    The Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu had on 7th of February, 2022, signed into law the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) bill in the bid to regulate, sanitise, protect individuals from illegal real estate transactions and fraudulent persons/organisations, monitor the activities of real estate transactions and ensure real estate transactions in the state conform to global best practices.

    In a statement by The Address Homes, in view of its strategic role in the overall real estate business as a leading real estate company engaged in the acquisition, development and management of luxurious contemporary homes across Nigeria, it is supporting the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority, the agency in charge of the conference and exhibition to curb unscrupulous practices and promote global best practices and investment opportunities in the sector.

    Speaking on the Real Estate Market Place Conference and Exhibition, Mr Segun Ogunbiyi, Marketing Manager, The Address Homes, noted, “The partnership between Address Homes and Lagos State Government on this conference and exhibition would further propel the already existing collaboration to promote integrity, professionalism, customer satisfaction and safety in real estate industry in Nigeria.”

    Apart from its sponsorship role at the conference, The Address Homes will also be a major exhibitor, showcasing real estate development with a combination of high-class contemporary architectural design and high-level finishes with respect to designs and styles that meet consumer passion, taste and comfort.

    Since its maiden edition in 2020, the real estate firm has consistently been a major supporter of LASRERA’s Real Estate Market Place Conference and Exhibition.

    The Address Homes Limited is a leading real estate company engaged in acquiring, developing and managing luxurious contemporary homes across Nigeria.

    With its pragmatic approach to solving problems and prioritizing customers’ specific needs in real estate in Nigeria, The Address Homes has continued to change the face of real estate development in Nigeria by delivering homes that combine high-class contemporary architectural design with high-level finishes as they are highly diversified with respect to design and styles.

    From its inception, The Address Homes has made the policy of building the best homes at the most economical prices throughout Nigeria, thus delivering optimum value for money.

    Some of the projects of The Address Homes include The Luxuria, located on Alexander Road, Dan and Dan located on Banana Road, Ikoyi, Osapa London, e.t.c

    Presently, the firm has extended construction to Ikeja, GRA at Harold Shodipo and Aunty Ayo, Keffi Street, Ikoyi aimed at contributing 101 units to South West Ikoyi by 2023.

  • Glitz as AFRIMA fetes Jurors at Annual Patron’s Dinner

    Glitz as AFRIMA fetes Jurors at Annual Patron’s Dinner

    …surprises Patron, Onasanya at 61 with a special birthday shout-out

    It was an exciting blend of glitz, glam and euphoria as the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) hosted its annual patron’s dinner with the jury members, held Wednesday, in Lagos, Nigeria.

    The event, which feted stakeholders in Africa’s creative economy, including media and music executives, and African entertainers, among others, gave a glimpse into what to expect from this year’s edition, as the #RoadToAFRIMA22 continues to take an interesting glide in highlighting and celebrating talents from all parts of Africa.

    Also present at the continental event, which in the past nine years, has continued to celebrate African talents, were music enthusiasts, stakeholders, artiste managers, as well as musicians such as Eltee Skhillz, Major AJ, Tariq, among others.

    Held at the EbonyLife Place, in Victoria Island, Lagos, the dinner was a close experience into the AFRIMA Award experience, as the dignitaries present met with the jurors, composed of music aficionados from across all five regions in the continent and in the diaspora, as well as a representative from the African Union Commission (AUC).

    Hosted by AFRIMA Patron, Dr. Bisi Onasanya, the annual patrons’ dinner with the jury is a special gathering, held during the annual adjudication, to appreciate the jury members for their unflinching support in sieving out the best of talents for nomination at the awards.

    The jury members are presently in Lagos, Nigeria, for an 8-day adjudication which began, last Friday, to select the nominees for this year’s edition from 9,076 entries submitted – the highest the awards has ever recorded since its inception in 2014. The nominations list would be unveiled Monday, August 22, 2022, while voting begins Wednesday, August 24, 2022.

    Onasanya expressed enthusiasm at the successes recorded by AFRIMA, noting that the enduring vision of the body, in conjunction with the AU, will continue to come to fruition.

    He said, “This event is to appreciate all the jury members. They are wonderful. They have been very thorough and have given AFRIMA the credibility it has today. They have been working assiduously for the growth of our creative sector. I am very proud to be associated with AFRIMA.

    “African music is taking over the whole world by surprise. You go to other parts of the world these days and you hear African music being played. I am always excited because it didn’t happen a decade ago. The whole world is now respectful of African music, and they are learning from us. This is a great achievement. AFRIMA, last year, was awesome. It was broadcast all over Africa. If you think last year was awesome, just wait until you see what will  happen this year.”

    In her keynote speech, a juror representing the African Union, who is the Head of the Culture Division at the African Union Commission, Mrs. Angela Martins, appreciated the stakeholders in Africa’s creative space, as well as the award’s organisers for their invaluable contribution to the development of the African creative economy.

    She said, “The African Union Commission, which has been a partner with AFRIMA since its inception in 2014, wishes to congratulate AFRIMA for its enthusiasm and priceless efforts in promoting the growth and development of the music industry in the continent, despite the challenges including the Ebola crisis in 2015 and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. In 2020, AFRIMA played a key role in supporting the AUC in thinking out of the box and finding creative ways of using music to sensitise the continent on issues relating to the pandemic and to mobilise resources for the AU COVID-19 response fund. Hence, we organised a joint conference titled, Stronger Together.

    “Since AFRIMA’s inception, we have been part of this pan-African music platform and we have watched it grow and bear fruits and award the most deserving music talents on the continent. This is an excellent contribution to the development of the creative economy of the continent. It has created opportunities for young people in the creative sector. The great work that AFRIMA is doing would not have been possible without the support of well-wishers and believers in the potential and viability in the creative economy of the continent.

    “We know that this is enormous for the well-wishers and supporters, but on this occasion, we wish to pay special tribute to the AFRIMA patron who came on board last year and has been supporting this pan-African music initiative wholeheartedly and unconditionally. His support has increased the visibility of the award. We appreciate and salute him.

    “We also wish to express gratitude to the AFRIMA jury from the five regions of the continent and from the diaspora who have supported and believed in this initiative. The adjudication process is a long process and it requires dedication, fairness, transparency and hard work. It takes An African music lover to perform their duties in the way they have been doing so since the inception of the process. We applaud them. We also wish to thank the media whose work has been essential in ensuring the popularisation and growth of the cultural and creative sector of the continent.”

    Another juror representing Western Africa, Mr Motolani Alake, appreciated the AFRIMA team for its efforts in promoting African talent, encouraging African music lovers to unite and consolidate efforts in developing the continent’s creative sector.

    “I really wanted to serve the world and Africa. I have learned great things and learned a lot about talents and our impact here. I want to encourage everybody to know that as much as African music is travelling all over the world now, it is also important to support our own and watch it grow,” he said.

    Similarly, another juror representing Central Africa, Mr. Charles Tabu, lauded the prospects in AFRIMA’s drive to boost inclusiveness in her mission to celebrate and spotlight African talent on a global stage.

    He said, “It gladdens me to see the creative work that comes out of Africa being awarded. I would like to thank the entertainers for always submitting their entries and believing in the growth of the African creative space. I am from Francophone Africa and I am glad to see artistes from all regions get a chance to be celebrated across the continent and in the diaspora.”

    Giving his vote of thanks, AFRIMA’s Executive Producer/President, Mr. Mike Dada, appreciated believers in Africa’s creative industry, adding that AFRIMA’s work would remain consistent in achieving its objective.

    “I am delighted by the support from every stakeholder in our creative economy, from the Patron, to the media, to the entertainers and record executives. I am delighted that we are working closely to make Africa great again. The idea of the patron’s dinner is to thank our jury members. They sit for 18 hours daily for 10 days to sieve out the best talents from several thousands to be nominated for the respective categories they fall under. We do this yearly. And we are not resting on our oars. Together, we will make Africa the pride of the world.”

    As the event raced to its end, AFRIMA’s patron, Onasanya who was surrounded by family, friends and well-wishers, was surprised with a special cake to celebrate his 61st birthday.

    Born August 18, 1961, Onasanya, who is a firm believer in the potential of the African creative sector, built a legacy within the African financial and banking sector over the years. After his meritorious retirement, in 2015, the mogul delved into the luxury real estate development sector, currently thriving as a leading player within that sector as the founder and Chairman of The Address Homes, in addition to impacting other spheres, including Africa’s culture and creative scene.

    The AFRIMA awards ceremony will feature a 4-day fiesta of music, glitz, and glamour. The event is scheduled to commence with the welcome soiree, followed by the AFRIMA Music Village, the host city tour, African Music Business Summit, and the exclusive nominees’ party and concluded with the live awards ceremony broadcast to over 84 countries around the world.

    African music lovers can take part in the events on social media, live stream on the AFRIMA website at www.afrima.org and visit the social media platforms (Instagram – Afrima.official; Twitter – Afrimawards), and they can watch the event coverage by tuning in to their local and cable TV providers.

    In partnership with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA is a youth-focused music platform that recognizes and rewards the work and talents of African artistes across generations and primarily stimulates conversations among Africans, and also the rest of the world, especially on the potential of the creative arts for fostering real human enterprise, contributing significantly to social cohesion, economic growth as well as sustainable development in Africa.

  • The Address Homes: Extending The Frontier of Luxury Houses In Nigeria

    The Address Homes: Extending The Frontier of Luxury Houses In Nigeria

    ‘There’s no place like home,’ or ‘Home is where the heart is.’ These popular sayings affirm the truth that a home is a place that is always desirable. It exists in the mind’s eye as much as in a particular physical location. Home, in essence, is a shelter, providing an escape from the intrusions of the busy world.

    Interestingly, in Nigeria, most cities are fast becoming homes to a huge number of individuals due to the rural-urban influx of people, as well as the rapid-growing population, especially, the working class; and of course rapid urbanization, among other factors.

    However, much thought about, in seeking for homes, regardless of economic conditions of the nation and the citizens, researches have shown that many are not just complacent with living in ‘any kind of home’. This category of patrons or home-seekers, this medium observes, wants more than just four walls and a parking lot. Simply put, they desire to live in the premium or what many call luxury homes, rather than ‘normal’ homes.

    For these home buyers, specifically, the affluent, the desire for luxury homes that provide all the modern comforts cannot be overemphasized. The homes, especially in the urban areas, afford the owner to provide his/her family quality habitat with security, health, and privacy, all guaranteed. 

    Notably, however, affording a luxury home does not come cheap. With the poor state of the economy, galloping inflation and falling values of the naira and associated effects on the fortune of the nation, prices of luxury properties have climbed steadily over the years.

    But, while it might seem to have a luxury home cannot be achieved in one’s lifetime, the good news is here.

    In battling the housing deficit in the country, a top-notch real estate development firm, The Address Homes, has reiterated its resolve toward tackling Nigeria’s housing deficit by providing affordable homes that meet the benchmark of modern real estate development.

    Having stamped its authority in the luxury property market within the shortest time of coming into the real estate industry through the successful completion of about 54 units of mid-luxury detached and semi-detached properties in Osapa London, 31 units of luxury homes at Ilasan, opposite Ikate, in Lekki, Lagos, the firm has added two new home schemes christened The Luxuria by The Address Homes and Dan & Dan Apartments in Ikoyi and Banana Island to its stables. 

    These maisonette homes, industry experts and many stakeholders affirmed, are definitely like no other, and could only have been delivered by The Address Homes, which prides itself as an “address of distinction”, where standards, innovation, newness and fresh perspectives thrive. The two luxury brands, on completion, are expected to deliver cosy homes that combine exquisite design with high-level finishes within Ikoyi, Lagos. 

    According to the Address Homes management, the construction of the two deluxe contemporary homes, which commenced in 2021, is expected to be completed in 2023. Upon completion, the project will comprise 18 luxury houses, ranging from five-bedroom fully detached houses to five-bedroom semi-detached houses and four-bedroom terrace houses.

    Located on Alexander Road, Ikoyi, The Luxuria, which sits on a land area measuring approximately 4890sqm is a development made up of 58 units in total, out of which close to 50 are typical maisonettes. The general amenities include the followings: 24 hours power, functional gym, adult/children swimming pools, 3 carports, spa, lounge overlooking the lobby, 2 general lifts per tower, 2 service lifts per tower, spacious lift lobby, wet and dry kitchens as well as a reception area.

    Dan & Dan Apartments, located on Banana Island road, comprises 27 units of fully-serviced apartments; three penthouses, 12 maisonettes and 12 terrace houses.

    Designed by award-winning architect, Play in Architecture Limited and nestled in the heart of Ikoyi, Dan & Dan is surrounded by city landmarks, cultural institutions and dozens of trendy dining and shopping options with easy and secured access to roads and waterways.

    Conspicuously raising the standard, Dan & Dan is introducing distinctive, crafted details that complement modern materials and reinvent Banana Island’s architectural landscape. The features include 3 nos penthouses, 12 nos maisonette, and 12 nos terrace houses.

    Upon completion, the estate will have the following features: a swimming pool, 24-hour power, security personnel, CCTV, a best-in-class Kitchen, gym; and many more.

    Speaking during a recent media tour of some of its completed and ongoing projects by journalists from top media houses in Nigeria, the chairman and founder of The Address Homes, Dr. Bisi Onasanya revealed that “The fundamental goal of the firm was to provide smart homes which could boast of the basic amenities that were reflective of global best property development practices.

    According to him, “We didn’t venture into The Address Homes to make money, even though every business is set out to make money. The real intention, for me, is to allow us to do something different from the way previous participants and players in real estate have done.

    He said: “We believe there is a need to inject some integrity into the real estate business. We also believe at times that quality was a bit deficient and there is a need to do things mostly to some level of international standards, irrespective of where you are. We wanted to come into the industry and put up structures that we can call homes, not houses. These are homes that will compete with the best that you can see outside of the country, and yet without making you break the bank in terms of being able to pay or affordability. We see people trying to relocate from abroad – Canada, the United States of America (US) and Europe.

    There is a minimum standard of living they have been used to. They like to enter a home and there are basic things they look to see, the environment they also like to see. We found that these are missing to some extent. We wanted a situation in which you live in the Address Homes and you are proud because of the comfortability we offer. That is what we believe in. That’s what we have been able to do. Have we done everything? We’ve done our best, but we still believe that we’ll keep improving”.

    According to the chairman, The Address Homes characteristically offers flexible payment plans to enable home buyers spread payments at their convenience.

    “We are very competitive in terms of pricing, but more importantly, we are very flexible in our payment structure. We allow people to dictate to us within a particular time frame, how they want to structure their payments during construction.”

    “Even at that, we’ve had instances where we completed the project, but people had difficulty making the final payment. They make a special request for us to allow them to move into the property without completing payment, and yet we still oblige them.”

    “All these have endeared us to the few people who have had the opportunity to interact with us and to enjoy the services that we offer. So, when I see those things, they make me feel proud that what we set out to achieve, we are on course.”

    “In doing that also, we have also succeeded in contributing to the housing deficit. Right now, we play in the medium market sector essentially, and today we have a total of, both ongoing and completed, over 250 units of houses and still counting. I have mentioned why we are different. We don’t make noise and we don’t tell you you must break the bank to access our services. For every single estate that we have built, we make sure that we do not just hand over the keys to you, we follow you and make sure we provide facilities management to make living in those estates very convenient and comfortable for you. We also provided some guarantees of a minimum of five to 10 years on the structure so that if anything happens to the windows and doors, we take responsibility. We provide you with 24 hours electricity, CCTV, security, water and others.”

    Speaking further, Onasanya noted that all of the firm’s construction projects were subjected to periodic integrity tests by the Lagos State Government to ensure compliance to set standards and also ensure standards for home buyers.

    “We do not embark on any construction with a formal building plan approval from the Lagos State Government. At every stage, the structural engineer goes to the site to certify every stage before they can do any concrete work. After the structural engineer has done that, Lagos State Government, that is LASBCA, will check what has been done and sign off on it before we go on, and we use this process on all our projects.”

    Shedding more light on the Luxuria features, the Address Homes boss noted: “When I say maisonettes, there is a reason why we do things differently. First and foremost, we found out that people live in flats. Developers built flats but we also found out that when you live in flats, some elements of privacy are denied – you come out of your bedroom, enter your sitting room. People who lived abroad are used to multi-level structures. We chose to do things differently. I was discussing with an architect and he said what he has observed in this environment is that people would build blocks of flats and then put them on top of the flats penthouses. And I said it is those penthouses, which are very few, that are sold first. People are ready to pay any amount of money for the services. Why can’t we do a project where every single apartment looks like a penthouse. If you go to Luxuria, you will see the massive space that we have of two levels.  It comes with two kitchens, which means that madam has a reserved house while allowing the chef to use the other area; two living rooms, a bar area, a swimming pool, etc.”