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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Stakeholders in Nigeria’s housing and urban development sector have endorsed the Federal Government’s renewed partnership with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), describing the collaboration as a significant step towards addressing rapid urbanisation, expanding access to affordable housing, and promoting sustainable city development.

The experts noted that Nigeria’s urban population continues to grow as more people migrate to cities in search of employment and better living conditions. They warned that without strategic planning and sustained investment in infrastructure, housing, and public services, cities will face increasing pressure from traffic congestion, inadequate housing, informal settlements, and overstretched social amenities.

A property developer, Chief Anthony Izuagbe, urged governments to adopt proactive planning by expanding infrastructure ahead of population growth rather than reacting after existing facilities become overwhelmed. He stressed that anticipating future demand is essential for building resilient and liveable cities.

Similarly, retired infrastructure professional Mrs. Chinonye Onyekoji highlighted the need for long-term urban planning, particularly in Lagos and other rapidly growing cities. She said strategic investments in transportation, housing, and public infrastructure are necessary to accommodate population growth and improve residents’ quality of life.

The endorsement follows a meeting between the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, and the UN-Habitat Regional Director for Africa, Oumar Sylla, during which both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation on sustainable urban planning, affordable housing delivery, climate resilience, slum upgrading, institutional capacity building, and the implementation of Nigeria’s National Urban Development Policy.

The minister described urban renewal as a key driver of economic growth, improved security, and better living standards. He expressed confidence that continued collaboration with UN-Habitat would provide Nigeria with technical expertise, global best practices, and stronger development partnerships needed to build inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities.

Urban development experts believe that strengthening the partnership between the Federal Government and UN-Habitat will accelerate housing delivery, improve urban governance, enhance land-use planning, and support climate-resilient infrastructure capable of meeting the needs of Nigeria’s rapidly expanding urban population.

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Kano has been ranked among the world’s 10 largest cities by population, highlighting its rapid urban growth and increasing importance as one of Africa’s leading commercial and economic centres. The latest population estimates place the ancient Nigerian city alongside major global metropolitan areas, reflecting decades of sustained population growth and urban expansion.

According to the latest global population estimates, Kano secured a place in the top 10 most populous cities worldwide, reinforcing its position as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing urban centres. The city’s expanding population has been driven by natural population growth, migration, commercial activities, and its strategic role as a major trading hub in northern Nigeria.

Urban development experts say Kano’s continued growth presents significant opportunities for economic development, investment, and infrastructure expansion. However, they also caution that rapid urbanisation increases pressure on housing, transportation, healthcare, education, water supply, and other essential public services.

As one of West Africa’s oldest commercial cities, Kano has long served as a centre for trade, manufacturing, agriculture, and regional commerce. Its strategic location continues to attract businesses and residents from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, contributing to its expanding urban footprint and economic significance.

Urban planners have stressed the need for sustainable city planning to accommodate future population growth. They recommend increased investment in affordable housing, transportation infrastructure, environmental management, and digital urban planning systems to improve the quality of life for residents while supporting long-term economic development.

Stakeholders believe that with effective planning and infrastructure investment, Kano can leverage its growing population to strengthen its position as a major economic gateway for northern Nigeria and the wider West African region

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The Lagos State Government has sealed more than 20 properties in Ikeja Local Government Area for violating physical planning regulations, as authorities intensify enforcement of planning laws to promote orderly urban development and reduce the risk of building failures. The exercise was carried out by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) as part of its ongoing compliance drive.

The affected properties include undeveloped plots, buildings under construction, and structures with unauthorised extensions that were found to be in breach of the Lagos State Physical Planning Law. Officials said the enforcement action followed routine inspections aimed at identifying developments that failed to obtain the required planning approvals before construction.

Speaking during the exercise, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, Olayinka Wasiu, said compliance with planning regulations is essential to preventing building collapse, protecting lives and property, and ensuring sustainable physical development across the state. He noted that property owners and developers must obtain the necessary permits before commencing any construction activities.

LASPPPA also reiterated that enforcement measures are intended to encourage voluntary compliance rather than punish developers. The agency urged owners of affected properties to regularise their documentation and comply with planning requirements before resuming construction or occupancy.

Urban planning professionals have welcomed the renewed enforcement, arguing that strict compliance with planning laws is necessary to improve public safety, preserve infrastructure, and support sustainable urban growth. They also called for faster permit approval processes and greater public awareness to encourage compliance and reduce illegal developments.

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Urban planning experts have warned that increasing violations of planning permit regulations are undermining orderly physical development across Nigeria, contributing to building collapses, flooding, environmental degradation, and significant economic losses. They say the growing trend of commencing construction without obtaining statutory approvals is weakening the country’s urban planning framework and exposing communities to avoidable risks.

According to industry stakeholders, many developers and property owners continue to adopt a “build first, regularise later” approach, largely due to lengthy approval processes, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and the high cost of obtaining planning permits. Experts argue that while these challenges exist, bypassing planning regulations compromises public safety and sustainable urban growth.

Professionals in the built environment noted that planning approvals are essential because they ensure developments comply with approved land use, structural standards, environmental requirements, and safety regulations before construction begins. They stressed that proper supervision by planning authorities throughout the construction process significantly reduces the risk of structural failures and other hazards.

Recent enforcement actions by several state governments, particularly in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory, have targeted illegal developments through building seals, demolitions, permit regularisation programmes, and digital approval systems. Authorities believe these measures will improve compliance while promoting safer and more organised urban development.

Experts have also recommended the adoption of fully digital planning permit systems, transparent approval charges, public awareness campaigns, and stronger enforcement to encourage voluntary compliance. They believe technology-driven approval processes can reduce delays, minimise corruption, and make regulatory compliance more accessible for developers and homeowners.

Stakeholders maintain that strengthening planning permit compliance is critical to protecting lives and property, improving infrastructure delivery, and supporting sustainable housing and real estate development across Nigeria’s rapidly growing cities.

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With less than five years to 2030, Nigeria faces a steep housing deficit, requiring reforms, financing innovations, and private sector engagement to meet Sustainable Development Goal 11.

Nigeria faces a critical challenge in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. With a housing deficit estimated at 14.9 million units, millions of Nigerians continue to live in overcrowded settlements or substandard housing.

To meet the projected population of over 460 million by 2030, Nigeria would need to deliver at least 550,000–900,000 new homes annually. Current formal housing delivery, however, ranges between 100,000 and 150,000 units per year, highlighting a significant gap. In Lagos alone, the deficit stands at 3.4 million units.

Housing and Sustainable Development
Adequate housing is central to multiple SDGs, contributing to poverty reduction, improved health outcomes, access to clean water, sanitation, and climate resilience. Experts note that housing forms the foundation for sustainable communities, ensuring stability, education access, and reduced overcrowding-related health risks.

Challenges in Delivery
Urban centres are under intense pressure due to rural-urban migration. Existing housing often lacks clean water, sanitation, electricity, and structural safety. Rapid population growth has outpaced infrastructure development, creating sprawling informal settlements and slums.

Federal Government Role
The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has focused on improving data accuracy, establishing the National Housing Data Technical Committee to provide credible statistics for policy-making. Initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, rent-to-own schemes, and public-private partnerships aim to increase affordable housing supply.

However, low mortgage penetration, high interest rates, and limited access to long-term loans remain major barriers. Experts call for stronger financing frameworks and more inclusive housing policies.

State Governments and Land Administration
State governments control land administration and urban planning under the Land Use Act of 1978. Bureaucratic delays, high land costs, and weak planning systems slow housing development. Experts recommend digitising land registries, simplifying approvals, and establishing land banks to reduce development costs and encourage private investment.

Private Sector Participation
Developers, housing cooperatives, and financial institutions are vital to bridging the housing gap. Incentives such as tax reliefs, land concessions, and streamlined approval processes can encourage investment. Innovative construction technologies, including prefabricated housing and alternative building materials, can lower costs and accelerate delivery.

Climate Resilience
Housing projects must integrate climate-resilient designs, especially in flood-prone areas like Lagos, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa States. Measures include improved drainage, flood-resistant foundations, and energy-efficient building materials to protect residents and align with global sustainability standards.

Expert Recommendations

• Implement digital and fast-tracked land titling nationwide
• Expand mortgage options beyond salary-based borrowers
• Promote mixed-income, mixed-use communities
• Upgrade informal settlements instead of displacing residents
• Encourage incremental housing finance and micro-mortgages for informal sector workers
• Strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs) and fiscal incentives for developers

According to housing experts, achieving SDG 11 is ambitious but possible with immediate structural reforms, multi-billion-dollar investments, and strong collaboration between federal and state governments.

Nigeria’s housing challenge is not a lack of schemes but weak institutional execution. By reforming land administration, expanding financing options, and leveraging private sector participation, the country can significantly improve access to safe, affordable, and sustainable housing before 2030.

The post Nigeria’s Path to SDG 11 Housing Targets: Challenges and Opportunities appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Speaking at the Presidential Investment Forum in Beijing, Mahama positioned Ghana as a future hub for renewable energy, sustainable urban development, and value-added mineral processing. He said Ghana’s rich deposits of lithium, bauxite, manganese, and graphite present major opportunities for investment in EV and clean energy supply chains.

“We are ready to collaborate with Chinese partners in responsible mining and local processing to support the global transition to clean energy,” he said, calling the initiative a “win-win” for both nations.

Mahama announced plans for a green digital city spanning the Greater Accra, Volta, and Eastern Regions. Designed to feature smart infrastructure and sustainable energy systems, the project will be developed in four phases over 20 years, with work on the first phase expected to begin during his current term.

The city is part of Ghana’s broader transformation agenda, which includes a 24-hour economy and an export-driven industrial strategy focused on irrigation, agro-processing, tourism, and inland water transport.

Mahama also praised China’s role in Ghana’s development, citing nearly $4 billion in Chinese investments between 2013 and 2024 across energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure.

“Ghana remains one of Africa’s most stable and investor-friendly countries,” he said. “We welcome long-term partners committed to inclusive, green growth.”

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