Firm urges strategic housing solutions
The Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) held in Abuja, brought together key players in the real estate and housing sector for high-level conversations on affordable housing, youth inclusion, and policy reform. Among the prominent voices was Dr. Oladipupo Akinkunmi, Managing Director and CEO of Nests & Nails Nigeria Limited, who delivered a powerful session titled […]
The Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) held in Abuja, brought together key players in the real estate and housing sector for high-level conversations on affordable housing, youth inclusion, and policy reform.
Among the prominent voices was Dr. Oladipupo Akinkunmi, Managing Director and CEO of Nests & Nails Nigeria Limited, who delivered a powerful session titled “Housing the Future: Catering to Nigeria’s Young Population.”
In his address, Dr. Akinkunmi highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to rethink its housing strategies to accommodate the aspirations and realities of its growing youth population, especially millennials navigating an uncertain economic landscape.
“There is a serious gap between housing desires and market realities,” he said. “If the government is serious about solving the housing crisis, particularly for low-income earners and young people, then accessible housing funds and clear, supportive policies must be prioritised.”
Drawing from personal experience, Dr. Akinkunmi detailed how Nests & Nails Properties was built on a foundation of long-term thinking, strategic patience, and resilience. What began with modest property acquisitions on flexible two- to three-year payment plans gradually evolved into a thriving real estate investment portfolio.
“We didn’t start big,” he noted. “We started with what we could afford, took advantage of small payment windows, flipped properties over time, and reinvested. That journey taught me that growth often comes from disciplined, incremental steps.”
At the forum, which was part of the Youth and Under 40 Real Estate CEOs segment, Dr. Akinkunmi also touched on the importance of designing developments that balance functionality, aesthetics, and location essential considerations for meeting the diverse and growing demands of Nigerian home seekers.
He expressed appreciation to the organisers for providing a platform that champions youth participation in shaping the future of housing in Africa. “I’m especially grateful to the convener, Barrister Festus Adebayo whom I fondly call the ‘Spirit of Real Estate’ for continuously spotlighting innovation and inclusion in the sector,” he said.
The event, widely regarded as Africa’s largest housing and construction forum, continues to serve as a melting pot for policy makers, developers, financiers, and young innovators pushing boundaries in the housing ecosystem.
Dr. Akinkunmi concluded with an optimistic outlook: “Nigeria’s housing potential is vast. With collaboration, innovation, and strategic policy direction, we can create real solutions that empower the next generation to own and shape their future.”
As the continent grapples with urbanisation and increasing demand for affordable housing, voices like his underscore the critical role of youth-driven, locally grounded approaches in unlocking sustainable progress.