In commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025, Housing TV Africa (Channel 149 on StarTimes)—producers of the Housing Development Programme on AIT—hosted an inspiring virtual event themed “Accelerate Action.”
The gathering brought together some of the most outstanding female leaders in housing, finance, and construction. It not only celebrated their achievements but also spotlighted the persistent challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Anchored by Flora Anne, Managing Director of Housing TV Africa, the event served as a clarion call for gender inclusivity, leadership advancement, and economic empowerment across the built environment.
Key Highlights from the Event
• Dr. Chii Akporji, Chairperson of Shelter Afrique Development Bank, underscored the economic value of gender parity. She noted that women own less than 20% of the world’s land, stressing the need for urgent reforms in inheritance laws and land administration to strengthen women’s financial independence and access to credit.
• Uzo Oshogwe, Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, challenged women to break free from self-imposed limitations. According to her, “I don’t see glass ceilings because I choose not to.” She called on organizations to intentionally groom women for top executive positions while urging women themselves to be bold, confident, and ready to seize opportunities.
• Ify Umunnakwe-Okeke, Founder and Executive Chairperson of Lexon Capital, emphasized that financial empowerment goes beyond access to capital. She highlighted the importance of mentorship, training, negotiation skills, and strong networks to help women entrepreneurs thrive and scale their businesses.
• Olajumoke Akinwunmi, Co-founder and CEO of Alitheia Capital, declared that leadership is not given but taken. She urged women to claim their space through action, build strong professional networks, and mentor upcoming female leaders in real estate and finance.
• Peace Anomneze, President of Female Lawyers in Real Estate Practice, stressed the critical role of legal knowledge in protecting women’s rights and interests in real estate transactions. She encouraged women professionals to master legal frameworks as a tool for empowerment.
• Mercy Iyortyer, Deputy President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) and former President of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, celebrated women’s growing visibility in fields such as construction and quantity surveying. She highlighted the transformative impact of mentorship and role models in inspiring young women to join the sector.
Closing Message
In her closing remarks, Flora Anne reinforced the event’s theme, stressing that “talk must translate into action.” She reminded participants that every policy, investment, and opportunity extended to women in housing, finance, and construction brings society closer to a truly equitable world.
The session left participants inspired, empowered, and motivated to drive real change within their spheres of influence.
The organizers also used the opportunity to call on women at home and abroad to actively join the Women in Housing and Construction Network (WHCN)—a platform dedicated to fostering collaboration, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for women in the built environment.
As the industry looks ahead, one truth remains undeniable: women are no longer just participating—they are leading, innovating, and transforming the housing, finance, and construction sectors across Africa.
