In a recent interview, Maryam Abubakar Elewe, a respected project manager in Nigeria’s real estate sector, spotlighted the alarming issues plaguing land acquisition in the country, while offering potential solutions. Elewe's insights, drawn from years of experience in property management, reflect the frustrations of both buyers and investors.
Speaking on the challenges, Elewe noted that one of the most distressing problems is the failure of land developers to deliver on promises after buyers have made full payments. “It’s devastating when people invest their life savings into property only to end up with nothing,” she stated. Such practices have caused widespread mistrust in the sector, leaving investors vulnerable.
Elewe also highlighted deceptive tactics by some developers, where buyers are promised prime locations but end up receiving plots in far-flung, less desirable areas. "This bait-and-switch tactic is rampant and often leads to significant financial loss for buyers," she remarked.
Further compounding the problem, Elewe pointed to the hidden fees that often arise after buyers believe they have completed their payments. These charges, she explained, can sometimes exceed the original price of the land, crippling investors and undermining the buying process.
Additionally, many land buyers in Nigeria find themselves in legal trouble when they unknowingly acquire land with unclear titles. Elewe warned that this can lead to disputes with government authorities or third parties, with buyers potentially losing the property altogether.
However, Elewe’s analysis was not without hope. She identified Jazã & Sakeenah, an emerging real estate company, as a beacon of transparency and customer satisfaction in an otherwise chaotic industry. "Jazã & Sakeenah is setting a new standard by providing a clear, fully online process where buyers can view exact land locations, read contracts before making payments, and immediately receive all necessary documentation once payments are made," she explained.
The company also offers flexible purchasing options for both local and international buyers, and a unique referral system that allows customers to earn passive income. Elewe praised their customer-first approach, which includes the ability to co-own plots, bulk purchase discounts, and dedicated property advisors guiding buyers through the process.
With an ongoing promotional discount, Elewe urged potential investors to act swiftly but remain cautious. “Always follow the outlined process and avoid making payments outside the system to ensure a smooth transaction,” she advised.
In her closing remarks, Elewe called for greater transparency and accountability in the Nigerian real estate market, and emphasized the importance of companies like Jazã & Sakeenah that prioritize integrity and customer protection.