The Institute of Mortgage Brokers Lenders of Nigeria (IMBLN), says it will work with anti-graft agencies to regulate activities of unqualified estate agents and tackle irregularities in the housing sector.
The President of IMBLN, Hayatuddeen Awwal, said this at a One-day Consultative Meeting with the theme` `Mortgage and Real Estate Professionalism and Accessibility to Adorable Housing for Nigerians in Abuja.
According to Awwal, the Institute was established by an Act of the National Assembly with the mandate to regulate and professionalise the mortgage industry and housing sector to promote transparency, ethical standards and professionalism.
He said IMBLN is committed to ensuring that the housing sector is sanitised for the country to tap the hidden revenue and taxes within the mortgage and housing subsector.
He said that the move was imperative because so many people pose as estate agents, especially in Abuja thereby,, abusing the proffession.
“The president has directed, let us now bring out enforcement and efficiency. Our aim is now to enforce the parameters, qualifications and certifications.”
According to Awwal, the infiltration of quacks into land and housing sectors account for majority of police arrests due to lack of enforcement and an umbrella body to regulate and enforce law and order.
“IMBLN has initiated collaboration with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit(NFIU), ICPC and EFCC to join in sanitising the sector.
“The issue of aides as agents does not stop with the Minister of FCT, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is not left out.
“If you go to Mabushi, you see such agents by the Mosque, under the tree, and so many other areas. If you go to Gwarinpa they have colonies in various areas.
“They are there wreaking havoc. Security men, drivers, housewives, Imams, Pastors and so on, have all turned to be commission agents.
“Everybody is an estate agent, bastardising the landscape and the noble profession and therefore, we in the Institute are committed and our arms are open to further collaborations, to ensure that this sector is adequately regulated and sanitised.”
Dr Bernard Doro, Member, Governing Council of IMBLN, while unveiling the Institute’s brand, said the rebranding showed the institute’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration in driving sustainable housing solutions.
“It speaks to our dedication to equipping professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the industry and provide sustainable housing solutions for all.
“Be it rentals, be it outright purchase, be it purchase through mortgage, whatever, the IMBLN wants to offer Nigerians the opportunity to be confident in their dealings.”
Dr Joshua Attaghani, a member of the Institute, urged members of IMBLN to be committed to advancing the housing sector.
