DARS Group, Partners Unveil Elite City Abuja, Redefining Smart Living with Tech, Wellness and Affordable Housing

By: Folorunsho Adegoke, Housing TV Africa

In a bold move that signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s real estate landscape, DARS Group of Companies, in partnership with leading property developers, has officially unveiled Elite City Abuja, a premium smart city project designed to integrate technology, wellness, sustainability and affordability into modern urban living.

Strategically located in Ketti, Abuja, near the City Walk landmark, the ambitious development was launched before an audience of real estate investors, developers, financial institutions, government representatives and prospective homeowners, all eager to witness what stakeholders described as one of the Federal Capital Territory’s most innovative residential projects.

Speaking during the unveiling, Chairman of DARS Group, Chief Dr. Ronald Ogochukwu Ezaka, said the vision behind Elite City Abuja was inspired by his extensive international travels and exposure to technologically advanced residential communities across the world.

According to him, the company decided it was time to replicate such world-class living standards in Nigeria by creating a city where innovation, wellness and technology converge to improve residents’ quality of life.

“It’s a smart city, it’s a wellness city and a tech hub,” Ezaka said, noting that Elite City represents the first of several similar developments the company intends to build across the country. “We have seen what is possible in other parts of the world, and we believe Nigerians deserve the same standard of living.”

Managing Director of Standard Rank Properties Limited, a subsidiary of DARS Group, Prince Emmanuel Chukwudi Nwafor, described Elite City as one of the company’s largest ongoing developments, emphasizing that although it bears the name “Elite City,” the project is designed to be inclusive.

He explained that the development offers a wide range of housing options, including two-bedroom, three-bedroom and four-bedroom terrace duplexes, as well as mansions and mansionettes, ensuring accommodation for different income categories.

To further promote accessibility, Nwafor disclosed that prospective subscribers can acquire plots within the estate from as low as ₦3.6 million, reinforcing the company’s commitment to making quality housing available to more Nigerians.

The development is already witnessing significant infrastructure work as Project Surveyor, Johnson Oche, disclosed that comprehensive site surveys had been completed across the entire 57-hectare first phase, with engineering considerations carefully incorporated to prevent erosion and ensure proper drainage.

He revealed that construction of the estate’s perimeter fencing and security gatehouses is already underway, adding that the layout has received approval from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and will feature two major access roads for improved accessibility.

One of the project’s strategic development partners, PeakNova Limited, has also committed substantial investment to the city. Its Managing Director, Victor Egede, announced that the company had acquired 15 hectares within Elite City and intends to develop an eco-friendly residential community capable of accommodating about 250 residents.

Beyond smart infrastructure, he said residents should expect premium lifestyle facilities including a swimming pool, lawn tennis courts, resort facilities and other high-quality social amenities.

“We don’t just make promises; we build,” he said, pointing to the company’s existing developments as evidence of its delivery capacity.

Similarly, CEO of Great Home Properties Limited highlighted the investment opportunities embedded in the project, noting that buyers can either build homes or acquire land for future capital appreciation.

He also disclosed that residents would enjoy recreational facilities including football and tennis courts, among other lifestyle amenities.

The host community has also welcomed the project as District Head of Ketti Community, Chief Alex Akata, expressed optimism that the development would stimulate employment opportunities, improve social infrastructure and strengthen collaboration between developers and the local community.

He described the investment as a catalyst for economic growth and youth empowerment within the district.

For the Group Managing Director of DARS Group, Stephen Augustine Egbe, Elite City represents the future of urban living. He explained that the project combines affordability with comfort while integrating smart technologies that position the development ahead of conventional residential estates.

According to him, innovation will remain central to future phases of the project as the company continues to embrace emerging technologies and evolving housing trends.

Industry stakeholders also praised the collaborative development model adopted for the project. Managing Director of Squarehead Consult Limited, Jude Ashang, observed that partnerships among developers help reduce infrastructure costs while improving project quality. He argued that shared investment in infrastructure ultimately contributes to lowering housing costs and delivering better value for homeowners.

“This is one of the ways to reduce the cost of real estate because several companies working together can share infrastructure costs and achieve greater efficiency,” he said.

Another development partner, Managing Director of Forth Urban Limited, Barr. Eze Victor Kelechi, described Elite City as Nigeria’s first integrated premium tech and wellness city, stressing that one of its defining features is inclusiveness.

He disclosed that the flexible payment structure introduced for the project was influenced by discussions at the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), with deliberate provisions made to enable low-income earners to participate.

According to him, “low-income earners also deserve to live like elites,” underscoring the project’s commitment to expanding access to quality housing.

From a youth perspective, Managing Director of Vestage Limited, Nelson Okezie, said technology is increasingly shaping modern lifestyles, making smart cities inevitable. He noted that Elite City Abuja has the potential to become a model for future developments in the Federal Capital Territory by providing residents with technology-driven services that simplify daily living while creating more time for work, family and recreation.

Developers say the development is being conceived as more than a conventional housing estate. Plans include reliable electricity infrastructure capable of supporting both residential and commercial activities, sustainable water supply systems, a modern security architecture, recreational parks and green spaces that promote healthy living, all consistent with the city’s branding as a Premium Tech and Wellness City.

According to DARS Group, the development has been carefully planned to combine modern infrastructure, security, accessibility and sustainable urban planning while creating long-term investment opportunities for homeowners and investors alike.

As demand continues to rise for well-planned communities within the Federal Capital Territory, the developers believe Elite City Abuja is strategically positioned to become a benchmark for the next generation of smart, sustainable and inclusive residential developments in Nigeria.

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The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Rabe Darma, has called for stronger regulatory frameworks to improve accountability, quality, and sustainability in Nigeria’s housing sector. He said effective regulation is essential to tackling the country’s housing deficit, promoting investor confidence, and ensuring that housing developments meet acceptable standards.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement, Darma stressed that Nigeria’s rapidly expanding housing market requires modern policies and stronger enforcement mechanisms to protect homebuyers, encourage responsible real estate development, and improve access to affordable housing. He noted that a well-regulated sector would attract greater domestic and foreign investment while supporting long-term economic growth.

The minister explained that regulatory reforms should focus on improving compliance with building standards, strengthening quality assurance, enhancing transparency in land administration, and ensuring greater professionalism across the housing value chain. He added that collaboration between government agencies, developers, financial institutions, and professional bodies is critical to achieving sustainable housing development.

Darma also emphasised the need for improved urban planning, efficient project delivery, and wider adoption of innovative construction technologies that can reduce housing costs without compromising quality. According to him, strengthening institutional capacity and regulatory oversight will help address recurring challenges such as substandard construction, building failures, and delays in project execution.

Industry stakeholders welcomed the minister’s position, noting that a predictable regulatory environment would improve consumer protection, reduce investment risks, and encourage private sector participation in affordable housing projects. They argued that consistent enforcement of existing regulations, alongside policy reforms, is necessary to build a more resilient and transparent housing market.

Experts further observed that stronger governance, digital approval systems, and streamlined development processes could significantly improve housing delivery while supporting Nigeria’s broader urban development and infrastructure objectives.

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The Lagos State Government has warned contractors handling its ongoing housing developments to accelerate construction work or risk losing their contracts. The warning comes as the state intensifies efforts to deliver thousands of housing units and address growing housing demand.

Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, issued the warning during an inspection of housing schemes at Abraham Adesanya Extension and the Sangotedo Housing Scheme Phase 2. He expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work at some sites and said the government would not tolerate unnecessary delays.

According to the commissioner, Lagos is targeting the delivery of about 2,000 housing units across several ongoing projects, including the 526-unit Sangotedo project being developed under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement. He noted that the administration is committed to completing the projects before the end of its tenure.

Akinderu-Fatai explained that some projects experienced setbacks due to inflation and the sharp increase in building material costs, which forced contractors and the ministry to revisit project terms and implementation plans. However, he stressed that those challenges have largely been addressed and the government’s priority is now the timely delivery of the housing schemes.

The commissioner said urgent meetings would be held with contractors to resolve outstanding technical issues and remove any bottlenecks slowing construction activities. He warned that contractors who fail to meet agreed timelines despite receiving adequate funding could face sanctions, including the revocation of their contracts.

The state government maintained that expanding housing infrastructure remains a major priority and reiterated its commitment to increasing access to quality and affordable homes for residents through strategic housing investments and partnerships.

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The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to delivering more than 2,000 housing units currently under construction across different parts of the state by May next year as part of efforts to improve access to affordable housing and reduce the housing deficit.

Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, gave the assurance during an inspection of ongoing housing projects in Abraham Adesanya and Sangotedo in the Ibeju-Lekki axis. He said the government remains focused on completing the projects within the lifespan of the current administration.

According to the commissioner, four major housing schemes are presently under development across Lagos through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements designed to increase the supply of affordable homes for residents. He noted that the state is closely monitoring the projects to ensure timely delivery and value for money.

While expressing satisfaction with progress recorded on some of the projects, Akinderu-Fatai acknowledged concerns over the pace of work at certain sites. He disclosed that technical issues had been identified and that the ministry would intensify inspections and engagements with contractors to accelerate delivery.

The commissioner warned that the government would take appropriate measures against contractors that fail to meet agreed timelines, including sanctions or replacement where necessary. He added that some of the projects could be ready for delivery between October and November this year if construction activities improve significantly.

He attributed delays experienced on some of the housing schemes to inflation and the sharp increase in the cost of building materials, which affected project execution across the country. However, he said those challenges have largely been addressed and the focus has shifted to completing and handing over the housing units.

The state government maintains that expanding housing infrastructure remains a key priority, with the projects expected to improve access to decent accommodation and support broader efforts to tackle Lagos’ growing housing demand.

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Eight people have been confirmed dead, while 26 others were rescued following the collapse of a building in Lagos, as emergency agencies intensified search and recovery operations at the scene.

The incident occurred in the Ojodu-Berger area of the state, where rescue teams, security personnel, and emergency responders were immediately deployed after the structure gave way. The operation continued for several hours as responders searched through the debris for survivors and recovered victims.

Officials confirmed that 26 individuals were pulled alive from the rubble and taken to medical facilities for treatment. Authorities also reported that eight fatalities had been recorded during the rescue operation.

Emergency agencies said heavy equipment and specialized personnel were deployed to support the operation and ensure that no victims remained trapped beneath the collapsed structure. The site was secured to allow rescue workers to carry out their duties safely and efficiently.

The cause of the collapse had not been officially established at the time of reporting. However, investigations are expected to examine the structural condition of the building, compliance with approved construction standards, and possible regulatory violations.

Building collapses continue to pose significant concerns in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, with experts repeatedly advocating stricter enforcement of building regulations, improved project supervision, and greater adherence to safety standards.

State authorities extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured residents that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has called for a reduction in cement prices in Nigeria, urging manufacturers to support the Federal Government’s infrastructure and housing development efforts by making the product more affordable.

Umahi made the appeal during the rebranding ceremony of Lafarge Africa Plc to HBM. He noted that cement remains a critical component of road construction, housing projects, and other infrastructure developments, stressing that lower prices would help accelerate ongoing projects and reduce construction costs nationwide.

The minister expressed concern over the high cost of cement despite the availability of raw materials and local production capacity in the country. He said affordable cement prices would not only benefit government projects but also ease the financial burden on individuals and private developers undertaking building projects.

Speaking at the event, officials of HBM reaffirmed the company’s commitment to maintaining quality standards and contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth through continued investment in manufacturing and sustainable business practices.

Industry stakeholders noted that cement prices have remained a major concern for builders and property developers, with rising construction costs affecting housing delivery and infrastructure expansion across the country. They added that stable and affordable pricing could significantly improve access to housing and stimulate activity within the construction sector.

Analysts believe that collaboration between government and cement manufacturers will be essential to addressing cost challenges and supporting the country’s broader development objectives, particularly in housing and infrastructure.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and creating an enabling environment for industrial growth while encouraging manufacturers to align with national development priorities.

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The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has secured land in 28 states as part of efforts to expand affordable housing projects and improve access to decent homes across Nigeria. The agency said the initiative forms part of its strategy to establish a stronger presence nationwide and address the country’s persistent housing deficit.

According to the authority, several states have already allocated prime land for the development programme, while construction activities have commenced in some locations following the award of contracts. Groundbreaking ceremonies have already been conducted in states including Akwa Ibom, Abia, Kaduna, Abeokuta, and the Federal Capital Territory.

The FHA also disclosed that it is implementing reforms aimed at improving service delivery and safeguarding property records. As part of these efforts, the agency has commenced the digitalisation of its property files and is working towards full automation of its operations. The authority added that its test laboratory for geological and integrity assessments has become operational.

The agency noted that it has completed and commissioned several inherited projects over the past 26 months, including housing developments in Ibadan and Abuja that were previously considered difficult to complete. It added that work is also progressing on a 336-unit housing estate in Bwari, Abuja, with plans to commission the project before the end of the year.

The authority assured prospective homeowners and investors that it would maintain high standards of quality assurance, transparency, and accountability in delivering its projects. It also expressed appreciation to government institutions, regulatory agencies, and host communities for their support in advancing the housing initiatives.

Industry stakeholders have described the housing projects as evidence of the opportunities within Nigeria’s real estate sector and the potential of collaboration between government and private developers to improve housing delivery. They noted that affordable housing projects can stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and support related industries across the country.

Officials from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation also stated that the projects align with ongoing efforts to address Nigeria’s long-standing housing deficit and improve access to housing, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory and other regions.

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El-Salem Nigeria Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to providing quality housing solutions as it continues to expand its footprint in the country’s real estate sector.

The company stated that its focus remains on delivering residential developments that meet the needs of homebuyers while maintaining high standards of construction, affordability, and customer satisfaction.

According to the firm’s leadership, the demand for quality housing across Nigeria continues to grow, creating opportunities for developers to contribute to addressing the nation’s housing deficit. The company emphasized that strategic planning, innovation, and adherence to industry standards are critical to delivering sustainable housing projects.

El-Salem noted that its projects are designed to provide value for homeowners and investors through modern infrastructure, functional designs, and well-planned communities. The developer added that customer trust remains a key driver of its operations and long-term growth strategy.

The company also highlighted the importance of collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, and private developers in expanding access to housing and improving the overall real estate ecosystem.

Industry observers say private sector developers continue to play a vital role in bridging Nigeria’s housing gap by investing in residential projects and supporting urban development across different regions of the country.

As housing demand continues to rise, stakeholders have stressed the need for increased investment, supportive policies, and innovative financing solutions to make homeownership more accessible to Nigerians.

El-Salem expressed optimism about the future of the housing sector, stating that it remains committed to delivering projects that contribute to community development and improve living standards.

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Premium Homes has launched a new luxury residential development in Osapa London, Lekki, further expanding its presence in Nigeria’s high-end real estate market.

The project, which consists of exclusive duplex units, is designed to meet the growing demand for premium housing in one of Lagos’ most sought-after residential locations. According to the developer, the estate combines modern architecture, quality construction, and lifestyle-focused amenities aimed at homeowners seeking comfort, security, and long-term value.

Speaking at the unveiling, company representatives highlighted the increasing appetite for luxury real estate in Lagos, driven by population growth, rising urbanization, and demand for upscale residential communities. They noted that strategic locations such as Lekki continue to attract investors and homebuyers due to their infrastructure, accessibility, and strong property appreciation potential.

The development features contemporary design elements and is expected to provide residents with a blend of privacy, convenience, and modern living standards. The company emphasized its commitment to delivering projects that align with international construction standards while addressing the needs of Nigeria’s evolving property market.

Industry stakeholders have identified luxury housing as one of the fastest-growing segments of the real estate sector, particularly in Lagos, where demand for premium residential properties remains strong despite broader economic challenges.

The unveiling comes as developers continue to explore opportunities within the upper-end property market, leveraging demand from investors, professionals, and Nigerians in the diaspora seeking quality residential assets.

Analysts believe projects such as the Osapa London development could contribute to strengthening investor confidence in Nigeria’s real estate sector while supporting broader housing and infrastructure growth within the Lekki corridor.

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An expert has urged the Nigerian government to deepen collaboration with the private sector as a key strategy to address the country’s widening housing deficit.

The call was made against the backdrop of persistent challenges in housing delivery, including limited access to affordable financing, rising construction costs, and gaps in infrastructure provision that continue to slow down large-scale housing development.

The expert noted that public-private partnerships remain one of the most effective global models for accelerating housing supply, especially in economies facing rapid urbanisation and population growth. However, the success of such arrangements depends heavily on clear objectives, strong institutional coordination, and transparent implementation frameworks.

He explained that many PPP housing initiatives in Nigeria have struggled to achieve their intended outcomes due to weak alignment between public and private sector goals. While government often prioritises social outcomes such as affordability and accessibility, private developers tend to focus on profitability and return on investment. This disconnect has contributed to inefficiencies in project delivery.

The expert also highlighted the importance of a well-defined regulatory environment, stressing that unclear policies and inconsistent enforcement have created uncertainty for investors. He argued that countries with more structured PPP frameworks tend to achieve better housing outcomes due to improved accountability and reduced operational risks.

Monitoring and evaluation were also identified as critical gaps in existing PPP housing schemes. Without effective oversight mechanisms, some projects have suffered from cost overruns, delays, and in some cases, mismanagement. Strengthening accountability systems, he said, would improve performance and ensure better use of public resources.

The discussion further pointed to land access constraints, inadequate long-term financing options, and high building material costs as additional barriers affecting housing delivery in Nigeria. These challenges, combined with weak policy coordination, have limited the impact of PPP-driven housing initiatives.

Despite these setbacks, the expert maintained that PPP remains a viable pathway for reducing Nigeria’s housing deficit if properly structured and implemented. He called for stronger institutional reforms, improved policy alignment, and increased private sector confidence to unlock large-scale housing development.

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