By Ishaq Dan-Imam, Lokoja
The Association of Estate Agents in Nigeria (AEAN), Kogi State Chapter, has inaugurated a new executive committee and unveiled plans to build a permanent secretariat in Lokoja, appealing to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for financial support to execute the ₦85 million project and provide an official vehicle for the association.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony on Saturday in Lokoja, the newly elected Chairman of the chapter, Surveyor and Valuer Abdulwasiu Folorunsho Muhammad, said the proposed secretariat would strengthen the association’s capacity to support housing development, land administration and professional real estate practice in the state.
He explained that the proposed single-storey complex would accommodate administrative offices, a 200-seat training hall and an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centre.
According to him, the facility would also serve as a documentation and dispute resolution centre while supporting public enlightenment campaigns against fraudulent and illegal real estate practices.
Muhammad disclosed that the association had prepared a Bill of Quantities estimating the project at ₦85 million, adding that AEAN was ready to provide architectural drawings and adopt transparent accountability measures to ensure the successful execution of the project.
He appealed to the Kogi State Government to partner with the association by funding the project and recognising AEAN as a technical partner in housing policy implementation and efforts to curb the activities of fake estate agents.
Beyond the proposed secretariat, the chairman also appealed to Governor Ododo to donate an official bus to the chapter to enhance its operational efficiency.
He said the vehicle would support field inspections, professional training, advocacy programmes and collaboration with government agencies.
“We believe a functional AEAN office in Lokoja will not only strengthen our operations but also provide a one-stop centre where government and members of the public can access verified estate practitioners for safe and transparent property transactions,” he said.
Muhammad reaffirmed the association’s commitment to sanitising the real estate sector through collaboration with government institutions.
“Our goal is to partner with the Kogi State Government to eliminate fraudulent and illegal property agents and promote professionalism in the real estate industry,” he stated.
The new chairman also pledged to provide transparent, inclusive and accountable leadership throughout his tenure, while supporting government initiatives aimed at expanding access to housing and attracting investment into the state.
He commended Governor Ododo for his administration’s investments in infrastructure, youth empowerment and job creation, expressing confidence that stronger collaboration between the government and AEAN would boost investor confidence in Kogi’s property market.
Muhammad also appreciated the AEAN National President, government officials, traditional rulers and other dignitaries who attended the inauguration ceremony.
He called on stakeholders to join hands with the association in promoting ethical real estate practice and protecting residents from land fraud and property scams.
The ceremony ended with prayers for the association, Kogi State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.