Festus Asikhia says governance is central to Festrut Group’s real estate model

 

Real estate developer Festus Uwakhemen Asikhia says governance, documentation and accountability remain at the centre of his company’s approach to property development as demand grows for greater transparency in Nigeria’s housing sector.

Asikhia, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Festrut Group and the driving force behind Festrut Global Shelter Nigeria Limited, said real estate should extend beyond constructing buildings to ensuring that buyers have confidence in ownership, compliance and long-term management.

His position comes at a time when concerns over land titles, documentation and regulatory compliance continue to affect many property transactions across the country. Industry observers have repeatedly identified weak administrative processes as one of the factors that discourage investment and create disputes between developers and buyers.

Before establishing his real estate business in 2010, Asikhia served in the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, where he said structured operations and accountability shaped his approach to leadership. He noted that the experience influenced the systems he later introduced into his business.

According to the company, documentation is treated as part of the development process rather than an activity completed after construction. Land verification, deed certification, compliance procedures and administrative oversight are integrated into project planning and execution.

Festrut Group says this approach has guided the delivery of several developments, including Defender’s Estate in Karshi, Festrut Kingdom Estate in Orozo and Festrut Estate in Katampe, Abuja. The company stated that each project has been developed with attention to documentation, estate planning and management processes intended to support property owners after purchase.

Asikhia said confidence remains one of the most valuable assets in real estate. “Real estate is not only about property. It is about confidence. Confidence in ownership. Confidence in documentation. Confidence in delivery,” he said.

Analysts say these issues are becoming more important as African cities continue to expand and demand for housing rises. They note that investors are increasingly paying attention to governance standards, legal certainty and the ability of developers to manage projects throughout their lifecycle.

Festrut Group said its future plans include expanding its estate portfolio while strengthening documentation services, administrative systems and facility management. The company said it intends to maintain structured processes as it grows its operations.

For many prospective homeowners and investors, the discussion extends beyond acquiring land or buildings. It also includes the assurance that records are complete, ownership is protected and developments are managed over time. Asikhia said that placing governance alongside construction can help strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s real estate sector and support its long-term growth.