With Kwara State facing a housing deficit of over one million units, private investors have begun to step in to support government efforts in addressing the challenge.
Speaking at a programme to mark its third anniversary in Il?rin, Group Managing Director of Experience Vision Creation (EVC), Engr Fola Oyedeji, said the company’s entry into Kwara was aimed at introducing a standard housing model similar to what is obtainable in Lagos, Port Harcourt and other top cities in the country.
He noted that the housing deficit nationwide is estimated at between 28 and 32 million, stressing that no single government could shoulder such a burden.
According to him, public private partnerships remain the most realistic option to close the gap and provide affordable homes.
‘Three years ago when we started in Kwara, awareness was very low. Today, more developers have come on board, creating competition that prevents monopoly and offers civil servants and other residents wider choices,’ Oyedepo said.
He added that the company’s projects are designed with long-term planning and attention to detail, while the state’s ongoing infrastructure drive has further boosted investor confidence in the housing sector.
Kwara State Commissioner for Works, AbdulQowiy Olododo, who was present at the event, said his attendance was to support youth participation in the industry.
He described the initiative as consistent with the government’s vision for urban planning, city expansion and the smart city project.
Operations Manager of EVC, Mahmoud Babatunde, said the anniversary activities were designed to highlight the company’s growth over three years and its role in housing delivery.
He explained that the programme was marked with project allocations, staff community service and public engagements.
According to him, the anniversary served as a point of reflection on the company’s operations and its plans for the future.