ThisdayReal Estate Woes: Maryam Elewe Highlights Key Issues in Nigerian Land Acquisition

In a recent press engagement, Project Manager Maryam Abubakar Elewe shed light on the challenges facing real estate investment in Nigeria, outlining some of the key concerns raised by buyers and investors. Elewe, known for her expertise in property management, offered candid insights into the often-complicated world of land acquisition.

“One of the most frustrating experiences is when buyers complete payments for a piece of land and end up receiving nothing,” she stated. “It’s a situation we hear about far too often, where people put their life savings into a property, only to be left with empty promises and no land in sight.” This unfortunate reality, according to Elewe, erodes trust in the system and leaves investors vulnerable.

Another common issue, she noted, is the bait-and-switch tactic employed by some developers. “Many buyers find themselves allocated land in a completely different location from what was advertised. They expect to own land in a prime area, only to be given land in a far-flung, less desirable location,” Elewe explained. This discrepancy often leads to disappointment and financial loss.

In addition, hidden fees are a recurring nightmare for many investors. “You think you’re done paying for the land, but suddenly you’re hit with extra charges—sometimes more than the price of the land itself—just to finalize the allocation. These hidden fees can be crippling,” she added.

Elewe also highlighted the dangers of acquiring land without a proper title. “Many people unknowingly buy land without realizing the title isn’t clean. This can lead to serious legal trouble, with buyers finding themselves in disputes with the government or other buyers, and in some cases, losing the property altogether.”

She warned against purchasing overpriced, low-appreciation land. “You invest in land hoping for it to appreciate, but 10 years later, it hasn’t gained value. Worse, it may even sell for less than what you originally paid,” she said, emphasizing the importance of thorough research before any purchase.

Lastly, Elewe touched on the shocking terms buyers often discover in contracts. “It’s disheartening when you’re presented with an agreement full of terms you don’t agree with, but you’re forced to sign it because you’ve already made payments.”

However, Elewe offered a glimmer of hope for those looking for a more transparent process, citing Jazã & Sakeenah, a company that is disrupting the real estate market with its innovative approach. “Jazã & Sakeenah is doing things differently, and it’s refreshing to see a company prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction,” she remarked.

According to Elewe, the company offers a straightforward, fully online process. “From start to finish, everything is clear. You can see the exact land location, read and sign the agreement before making any payments, and the moment you pay, you receive your receipt, contract, and allocation immediately,” she explained.

Additionally, the company offers flexibility for buyers, whether they are purchasing from within Nigeria or abroad. “You don’t even have to be physically present to buy land. You can complete everything online and visit the site whenever you’re ready, or send a representative,” Elewe said.

Another standout feature of Jazã & Sakeenah is its referral system. “Once you become a customer, you get a unique referral link that allows you to earn passive income by sharing it with others. It’s a win-win situation,” she added.

Elewe also praised the company’s customer-centric approach. “You have the option to buy a full plot, go in with friends to get a bulk discount, or even co-own a plot if funds are tight. Plus, a dedicated property advisor guides you through each step, ensuring that what you buy is what you get.”

Currently, the company is offering a significant promo discount through its web app. “This is an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to invest, but it won’t last long. The promo will end soon, so it’s best to act quickly,” she urged.

Elewe ended by reminding potential buyers to be vigilant. “Make sure you follow the process outlined by Jazã & Sakeenah, and don’t make payments outside the system. It’s the best way to ensure a smooth and secure transaction,” she advised.