By Kingsley Adegboye

The Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), has earned its reputation as a global platform for innovation, collaboration, and transformation in the housing and construction sector.

Over the years, industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders have consistently hailed the event as a game-changer that fosters development and connectivity among professionals in Africa and beyond.

At the 16th edition of the AIHS, Femi Adewole, former Managing Director of Family Homes Funds, who represented the former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, lauded the event’s impact.

“The AIHS has proven to be the foremost gathering of housing and construction professionals in Africa, offering solutions to the continent’s housing deficit through meaningful dialogues and partnerships,” he stated.

Rev. Surv. Ugochukwu Chime, Chairman of COPEN Group, also praised the AIHS for its contribution to the built environment.

“This show is a movement to revolutionize the housing and construction industry. The platform has helped bridge the gap among stakeholders and has provided an avenue for real solutions to be developed,” he remarked.

Dr. Mrs. Chii Akporji, Chairperson of Shelter Afrique, highlighted AIHS as an unparalleled opportunity for stakeholders. “This is a platform that brings together real estate stakeholders to discuss and display sector trends. The AIHS has contributed significantly to the discourse on affordable housing and sustainable urban development across Africa.”

Professor Marja C. Hoek-Smit, long-time Director of the International Housing Finance Program at the Wharton School Zell/Lurie Real Estate Center, described AIHS as a beacon of innovation.

“The AIHS has fostered financial discussions that are crucial to solving Africa’s housing finance challenges. It is a place where ideas meet execution,” she emphasized.

Kecia Rust, Executive Director of the African Union for Housing Finance (AUHF), underscored AIHS’s role in promoting affordable housing solutions.

“For years, AIHS has been the go-to event for housing finance stakeholders. It provides valuable insights into the financial mechanisms that can drive affordable housing development across the continent,” Rust said.

Hon. Dr. Freda Prempeh, former Minister of State for Works and Housing, Ghana, commended AIHS for facilitating cross-border housing collaborations.

“This show serves as a convergence point for African countries to learn from one another’s experiences and forge partnerships that lead to sustainable housing solutions,” she noted.

Nigerian Senator, Osita Izunaso, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Markets and a member of the Senate Committee on Housing, emphasized the importance of the AIHS in shaping housing policies.

“The AIHS has played a key role in influencing housing policies in Nigeria and beyond. It is a vital event that brings together experts who are passionate about driving the housing sector forward,” he stated.

Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Housing and Habitat, Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, highlighted the event’s ability to attract investors and drive economic growth. “The AIHS provides a strategic networking opportunity for investors, developers, and policymakers. It has significantly contributed to job creation and economic growth in Nigeria and across Africa.”

The AIHS has continued to be a hub for showcasing groundbreaking ideas, sealing deals, and fostering collaborations that drive housing development.

Over the years, the event has facilitated transactions worth over 500 billion Naira, with participants from more than 21 countries. The presence of representatives from the World Bank, African Development Bank, and key international housing institutions underscores its global significance.

Beyond business transactions, AIHS has positively impacted local economies.

Hotels in Abuja experience full occupancy during the event, airlines report increased bookings, and numerous employment opportunities are created in sectors such as printing, carpentry, and event management.

AIHS has become an economic catalyst, boosting revenue generation in the host city.

With its 19th edition scheduled for July 26th to 31st, 2025, at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, the AIHS remains committed to advancing housing solutions.

Featuring over 400 exhibitors, 10,000 participants, and 40,000 visitors, the AIHS continues to solidify its place as the largest and most influential housing and construction event in Africa.

As stakeholders anticipate another groundbreaking edition, AIHS stands as a testament to Africa’s potential in reshaping its housing landscape and fostering sustainable development across the continent.