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By Maduka Nweke
The Estate Rent and Commission Agents Association of Nigeria (ERCAAN), has formally unified its previously divided Lagos State chapters.
Speaking at the unification election held in Lagos, National President of ERCAAN, Mr. Godwin Alenkhe, said the coming together of the factions marks a historic turning point for the association.
He noted that Lagos, as the commercial nerve centre of the country, remains central to ERCAAN’s growth and stability.
Alenkhe, described the development as a “triumph over challenges” and a critical step toward strengthening the association nationwide.
“This milestone is a testament to the tireless efforts of our esteemed Members of Trustees, selfless leaders and progressive members.
Lagos has always been the heartbeat of our association, and settling its affairs is crucial to our overall success. I urge everyone to join forces with the national body to build a new ERCAAN free from sentiments and recklessness,”.
The election produced Mr. Godwin Oluwasegun Demech as the new Lagos State Chairman, a development stakeholders said signals a fresh start for the association in the state.
In his acceptance speech, Demech pledged to prioritise stakeholder engagement and institutional collaboration to reposition ERCAAN in Lagos.
He said his administration would immediately begin consultations with members, partners, regulatory bodies and relevant government agencies to align expectations and strengthen professionalism in the real estate agency business.
“There will be strong stakeholder engagements to meet with members, partners and regulatory bodies, as well as government agencies, to align our goals and expectations,” Demech said. “We will put in place a clear communication plan to ensure regular updates for members and stakeholders, address industry challenges and properly define roles to drive our initiatives.”
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Onyema Sandra, who represented the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, commended the national leadership and Board of Trustees for facilitating the reconciliation process. She said the unification would promote stability and better coordination within the real estate agency sector in the state.
“I see oneness and togetherness. It is clear that the association has come to stand,” she said, expressing optimism that the unified body would contribute meaningfully to housing development and regulatory compliance in Lagos.
The event also featured the conferment of Fellowship of ERCAAN on the immediate past Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Mrs. Patunola Ajayi.
The honour was bestowed on her in recognition of her contributions to the housing sector and support for professional standards in real estate practice.
Responding, Ajayi commended members for embracing reconciliation and unity, describing the move as a bold step toward restoring confidence and harmony within the association.
“This is a good move that will bring cordial relationships and tranquility to ERCAAN as a whole,” she said. “You have demonstrated the zeal to make the association a pride of Lagosians. I am always delighted to be in your midst, and I am happy that all of you consented to this unification.”
Stakeholders at the event expressed hope that the unification would end years of internal disputes, strengthen regulatory engagement and enhance the credibility of estate rent and commission agents operating in Lagos State.
