Every action and choice has an impact. As pebbles dropped into tranquil waters, they produce ripples that propagate through time and space, transforming the world in their wake. These invisible but powerful ripples contain the potential to craft destinies, trigger revolutions, and mould the nature of our collective reality for worse or better. Unleashed4takeover 2.0 illustrates the latter, demonstrating how actions fuelled by purpose and conscious intent can become agents of transformation and remarkable moments.
Nigeria boasts a vibrant and youthful population, with a median age of approximately 18 years—lower than the African and global averages of 20 and 29, respectively. Despite this advantage, recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics in Nigeria reveals a staggering 34.2 per cent unemployment rate among young people aged 15-24. This figure is three times higher than the global unemployment rate in 2012. Within this demographic, the real estate sector has emerged as a refuge, offering purpose, productivity, and livelihood.
With a population exceeding 200 million, Nigeria’s economy is on an upward trajectory, fuelling a growing demand for housing, especially in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt—where more than half of the population resides. The country’s evolving economy, rapid urbanisation, and expanding middle class have contributed to a notable surge in property development and investment opportunities. Despite the sector’s immense potential and opportunities, the Nigerian real estate industry faces significant obstacles hindering its growth and development.
The Unleashed4takeover event emerges as a powerful response to address these challenges. This corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, spearheaded by Nedcomoaks, aims to bring together stakeholders and empower young individuals with the necessary tools to thrive in the real estate sector. By aggregating industry professionals, experts, and aspiring youth, the event seeks to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and skill development, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to navigate and excel within this dynamic industry.
Re-shaping Real Estate in Africa
Following the success of the inaugural edition in 2022, #unleashedfortakeover 2.0 set out to unlock new horizons in the real estate industry. Dr Kenedy Okonkwo, the convener of the event, said “We organised this event to bring together industry experts and professionals, create an empowering environment, and establish a strong networking platform vital for our collective success in the industry. By collaborating as professionals, peers, and partners, we aim to advance our industry and ensure its sustained prosperity.”
From May 1st to 3rd, 2023, the Balmoral Event Centre in Lagos played host to the highly anticipated event, which centred around the theme “Re-shaping Real Estate in Africa.” The theme captured the essence of the transformative agenda, reflecting the desire to revolutionise the real estate landscape on the African continent. Remarkably, over 2000 distinguished real estate professionals and stakeholders, attended the conference all united in their quest to learn, exchange knowledge, and establish valuable connections. This makes it the largest gathering of realtors in West Africa.
The conference convener and the Group MD of Nedcomoaks, Dr Kennedy Okonkwo, citing the example of Citadel Views Estate, the first solar-powered estate in Lagos state, painted a vivid picture of his visionary approach to innovation. Dr Okonkwo’s words resounded throughout the venue as he declared, “The winds of change are blowing, and it is up to each one of you to be the orchestrators of that change. Settling for mediocrity is not an option, instead, dare to reimagine what is possible. Entrepreneurs, ask yourselves: Who will dare to challenge you? Will you seize the reins and challenge yourselves, or will you passively allow your competitors to dictate the pace?” His thought-provoking words left the audience buzzing with a renewed sense of determination and a burning desire to surpass their own limits.
Empowering Exchange: Knowledge Sharing and Networking
The Unleashed4takeover 2.0 event assembled a star-studded ensemble of trailblazers who left an indelible impact on the minds of attendees. Dr Ken Onyeali Ikpe, a renowned industry expert, set the stage ablaze with his profound insights into emerging market trends. Dr Kennedy Okonkwo, a visionary real estate magnate, shared his remarkable success story, inspiring attendees to reach for the stars.
The inclusion of Vusi Thembekwayo, an internationally acclaimed entrepreneur, speaker, and CEO of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners, at the event carried immense significance. Many experts have pointed out the difficulty of doing business within the continent as a major obstacle to development. However, his attendance was a symbol of progress, a fusion of views and expertise that Africa needs to grow its economy. Vusi challenged and inspired the participants with his insights and wisdom. His keynote address was met with applause and sparks of revelation across the faces of the audience as he declared: “You need to go beyond what you sell and represent the value of what you sell. You need to have utmost clarity on not who is your customer but who is not your customer. We don’t see what we must gain; we see what we stand to lose.”
The attendees were also treated to profound wisdom and ideas from the speakers. In a transformative session guided by the visionary Global Lead Pastor of the Elevation Church, Godman Akinlabi, a resounding call for excellence and service resonated within the hearts of all those in attendance. “Don’t let money be your motivation for management, governance, and business leadership. To achieve excellence, you need to understand what drives you. Excellence encompasses every aspect of your life, not just one. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and you can’t attain it with a survival mindset,” he passionately addressed the attentive audience.
The lineup of luminaries also included Wayne Berger, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema (CON), Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Dickson Nsofor, Dare Arigbede, and many others, each leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts and minds of the audience. The event culminated in a magnificent gala night and an awards ceremony recognising the best real estate professionals.
A Legacy of Inspiration
For countless attendees, the Unleashed4Takeover event proved to be a truly metamorphic experience, leaving an indelible imprint on the tapestry of their lives. Weeks after the event, one participant, Seun Akinsami, eloquently captured the transformative effect, saying, “It has been precisely three weeks, five hours, and thirty minutes since I departed the conference grounds, and the results have manifested in both my personal life and business endeavours in astonishing clarity. Above all, my mindset has undergone a profound and positive shift, propelling me to redefine key relationships in my life.”
These heartfelt testimonials serve as resounding affirmations of the profound significance of events like Unleashed4Takeover. They transcend the boundaries of mere networking and knowledge-sharing, creating an empowering environment that emboldens individuals to take audacious strides, embrace challenges, and unlock the full depth of their potential. The remarkable impact of the event on participants vividly demonstrates its capacity to reshape lives, kindle unwavering passion, and propel individuals towards newfound triumph and fulfilment.
The Unleashed4takeover 2.0 holds immense importance for the Nigerian context, through the platform, Dr Kennedy Okonkwo is contributing to nation-building and inspiring positive change. Despite the daunting challenges faced by the nation, the event serves as a beacon of hope, showcasing that the quiet whisper of an idea, born in the depths of contemplation, can ignite the flames of progress and forever alter the course of human history. Youth are the catalysts for economic growth and empowerment. Recognising the immense potential of youth, the platform has created an environment where they could thrive, contribute their unique perspectives, and actively shape the trajectory of the real estate sector. By providing technical skills training and networking opportunities, the event empowered young professionals to navigate the industry with confidence and competence.
At the heart of the Unleashed4Takeover 2.0 was a remarkable synergy that transcended boundaries. Attendees, hailing from various regions and cultural backgrounds, found themselves bridging gaps and forging powerful connections. Through their collective dedication to a common cause, barriers were dismantled, and a profound sense of unity emerged. This transformative environment fostered a sense of belonging and solidarity among attendees, propelling them towards a shared vision of change. With a mission to empower and inspire, the event acted as a platform for stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to collaborate, exchange valuable insights, and align their aspirations.
In the grand theatre of existence, where the present moment slips away like a fleeting breath, deliberate actions possess the remarkable ability to transcend time itself. Among these extraordinary actions, Nedcomoaks, owner of Victoria Crest Homes and Citadel Views Estate emerges as a shining example. It proves itself to be more than a socially responsible and sustainable brand; it embodies a genuine commitment to fostering human development, the most invaluable resource any nation can proudly possess.
Unleashed4Takeover serves as a platform for Nigerian youth to realise their potential, drive innovation, and shape the future of the real estate industry. With a shared vision of progress and inclusiveness, the event plays a vital role in empowering young individuals, fostering unity, and contributing to the nation’s development. Through continued collaboration, visionary leadership, and the unwavering support of stakeholders, the Unleashed4Takeover is poised to leave a lasting legacy of inspiration and positive change.
