By Aichienede Akhabue Goodluck and Oboh Sylvester
The investment in the housing sector in Edo State by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led Government has received a large boost, following the certification of four outstanding real estate developers to boost the construction of standard and affordable housing units for Edo residents at Phase Two of the Emotan Garden City in Benin City, Edo State.
Speaking to newsmen at the official handing over ceremony of the site to the developers at the Emotan Gardens City in Upper Sokponba axis of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of the State, the Managing Director of the Edo State Development Property Corporation (ESDPC), Mr John Zedomi, noted that Emotan Garden City, which is the brainchild of the Governor Obaseki’s administration, has transformed the housing sector in the State, stressing that Government’s investment in the sector is yielding remarkable dividends.
Mr. Zedomi said, “This moment marks a very significant milestone in our journey towards making Emotan Garden City a transformative development. This is in line with the vision of our Governor, Mr. Godwnin Obaseki in providing affordable housing for citizens in line with the Mega Agenda.”
The Managing Director described the event as, “The Foundation to our chosen developers who have demonstrated their expertise, commitment to quality and innovative vision; together, they will shape this land into a vibrant and sustainable community.”
“As developers, you have the power to create spaces that improve lives, embrace sustainable housing practices, prioritize design and engage with the local community. Your work leaves a positive impact on both the people and the environment. This handing over is not an end, but a new beginning. Embrace the journey with enthusiasm, resilience and collaboration. Together with us and ESDPC, we would create a remarkable development that future generations will be proud to call home,” Mr Zedomi added.
During a guided tour of the site with developers, the Managing Director explained that the second phase of the Emotan Garden City will have a central sewage system and constant power supply from Ossiomo Power Plant, as well as a Police post.
Mr. Zedomi assured the developers of the State Government’s commitment to speeding up work on the construction of accessible roads to the estate once the rain subsides, stressing that no part of the estate infrastructure will be left undone.
It was observed during the visit that construction workers were laying pipes for water reticulation system, as construction work on the housing units at the phase two projects was in advanced stage.
Responding, the Managing Director of D Prince Builder and developer at the Emotan Garden City, Mr. Cyril Omoregie, commended the State Government for providing the infrastructure and secured environment for the real estate business to thrive in Edo State. He noted that his firm will deliver affordable smart homes and services to the people of Edo State, appealing to those in the diaspora to take advantage of the investment opportunities at the Emotan Garden City.
In the same vein, the General Manager of Landsmith Constructions Limited, Mr. Sabbath Samson, stated that the company will replicate its standard and affordable housing units at the estate. He also commended the State Government for partnering with the private sector in bridging the housing deficit in the State.
On her part, the Managing Director, WTF Construction Limited, Dr. Mrs. Nosa Omere, while commending the Managing Director of ESDPC for the laudable reforms in the Agency, assured that they will work within the designs and specifications, as set out by ESDPC in the Emotan Garden City Phase two project.
The high point of the event was the presentation of certificates to the four outstanding developers, namely: Landsmith Constructions Limited, D Prince Builders and Estate Developers Limited, WTF Construction Limited, and IVY League Limited.
In attendance at the handing over ceremony were the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC), Mr. Toju Onaiwu; Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development, (MPPHURD), ESV. Austine Reminson; Mr Dele Edokpayi, Managing Director, MacFrankin Engineering Services Limited; Arch. Bosede Idegbesor, Director of Shared Services (ESDPC); Mrs. Flora Inneh, Director, Human Resources, (ESDPC); staff of the agency, amongst others.
