Ooni installs Awokose Omoluabi Oodua

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has conferred a chieftaincy title of Awokose Omoluabi Oodua on the President of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors & Valuers, Victor Alonge.

The monarch described Alonge as a worthy ambassador of Yorubaland, commending his “contributions to human development and his unwavering commitment to promoting peace, unity, and cultural heritage.”

He urged him to use his new position to further the cause of the Oduduwa race globally.

Speaking with journalists at Ile-Ife yesterday after the installation, Alonge appreciated the monarch for considering him worthy of the title and promised to use his new position to uplift his community and profession.

He urged the federal and state governments to harness the potential of members of his profession for economic development.

Alonge said Real Estate performance based on Gross Domestic Product in Nigeria is one of the lowest in Africa despite its huge potential.

He, however, said the tax reform by the federal government would have a positive impact on the real estate industry.

“Real estate performance based on GDP is very low, one of the lowest in Africa and we have huge potential. It is just for the Government to listen and engage. To accept that professionals have a role to play in supporting the government.

“I must commend this current government for the various initiatives that they have taken, especially in the tax reform, which is going to impact us in the real estate industry. In terms of productivity, contributions to GDP, I think it’s great.

“There are policies that may at first be difficult for the people. But in the long term, the Government is a continuum of administration. Policy should be sustainable. Listen to professionals. Engage with surveyors and valuers in the profession for the revitalisation and improved productivity and contribution of real estate to National development.

“I want to thank the Kabiyesi, Oonirisa for this great honour. I accept with absolute humility and a stance of responsibility. It’s an appreciation from. I accept it as a show of love and kindness, as well as recognition. I promise to continue to do my best to uplift my community and my profession,” Alonge said.