Vision to Legacy: How Sade Balogun Has Revolutionized Home Ownership in Nigeria Over 23 Years

Vision to Legacy: How Sade Balogun Has Revolutionized Home Ownership in Nigeria Over 23 Years

Real estate is the art of turning soil into soul—transforming spaces into places where lives unfold, dreams take root, and legacies endure. This philosophy has defined Sade Balogun’s remarkable 23-year journey in Nigeria’s property sector, where she has reshaped urban living, particularly in Lagos. As Amen Estate, her flagship project, nears its 23rd anniversary in June 2025, Balogun reflects on a career that has elevated home ownership in Nigeria. Sade’s journey began in 2002, when Lagos’s Eleko corridor was an area full of untapped potential but lacking the necessary infrastructure. Undeterred by the challenges and skepticism surrounding the area, she envisioned a luxurious yet practical community for families. Amen Estate was born from this vision, overcoming early doubts about Eleko’s potential. Today, Eleko has transformed into the “New Lagos,” with a modern seaport, a coastal road, and plans for an international airport—all of which have boosted the area’s appeal. “We weren’t just building houses; we were pioneering a new standard of living,” she recalls. With resilience and determination, Balogun secured key partnerships, financed essential infrastructure, and turned skeptics into believers. The successful completion of Amen Estate’s first phase ahead of schedule earned trust and attracted families seeking secure, modern homes in the once-overlooked area. Now, spanning over 400 hectares, Amen Estate stands as a symbol of quality and innovation, featuring tarred roads, tree-lined streets, and vibrant communities. Through Redbrick Homes, Balogun’s influence reaches across Nigeria, but she remains focused on her core philosophy: “Real estate is about people, not concrete. It’s the promise of safety, growth, and belonging.” Looking ahead, she is committed to sustainable housing solutions and mentoring the next generation of developers. “Legacy isn’t a destination; it’s a ripple effect,” she says, aiming to empower others to build futures she may never see. From humble beginnings to flourishing neighborhoods, Sade Balogun’s journey embodies the essence of real estate—how vision, resilience, and passion can turn challenges into lasting legacies. As Amen Estate celebrates its 23rd year, her story continues to inspire aspiring builders everywhere—the land remembers those who dare to dream.

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US to Deny Visas, Green Cards Over Anti-Semitic Social Media Posts

US to Deny Visas, Green Cards Over Anti-Semitic Social Media Posts

The US government announced a new policy on Wednesday that will allow immigration authorities to deny visas and green cards based on social media content deemed anti-Semitic. Under the new rules, posts supporting militant groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Huthi rebels, which are classified as terrorist organizations by the US, will be considered a factor in visa or residence permit decisions. This move follows controversial actions under the Trump administration, which has already revoked visas for students in the US. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that individuals advocating for anti-Semitic violence or terrorism would not be allowed into the country, despite the First Amendment’s protections for free speech. The policy is now in effect and applies to both student visas and permanent resident applications. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that hundreds of visas had already been revoked, and he emphasized that non-US citizens don’t have the same rights as Americans regarding visa approvals. Some individuals affected by this move argue they were unjustly targeted, claiming they were never involved in anti-Semitic behavior. One high-profile case involves Mahmoud Khalil, a US permanent resident, who was detained ahead of deportation despite his involvement in protests at Columbia University.

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Buhari: I Left Office with the Same Assets I Had Before Becoming President

Buhari: I Left Office with the Same Assets I Had Before Becoming President

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated that he left office in 2023 with the same assets he possessed before assuming the presidency in 2015. His spokesman, Garba Shehu, confirmed that Buhari’s assets declaration form, submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), indicated no increase in movable assets, and he did not open new bank accounts outside his existing account with Union Bank in Kaduna. Additionally, Buhari neither took loans nor incurred liabilities during his tenure. The only change noted was a slight decrease in the number of animals on his farm, attributed to gifts given over the past four years. This declaration aligns with Buhari’s commitment to transparency and adherence to constitutional requirements for public officials to declare their assets before and after holding public office. The CCB acknowledged receipt of his asset declaration form, reinforcing the process’s integrity. Shehu emphasized that Buhari’s assets remained unchanged, highlighting his consistent lifestyle and financial stability throughout his presidency. In 2015, Buhari publicly declared his assets, which included five homes located in Daura, Kano, and Abuja, as well as two mud houses in his village. His assets also encompassed undeveloped plots of land in Kano and Port Harcourt, an orchard, a ranch with 270 cattle, 25 sheep, five horses, and various birds, and shares in three companies: Berger Paints, Union Bank, and Skye Bank. He also reported having less than N30 million in cash. Buhari’s consistent asset declarations and the reported stability of his wealth have sparked discussions about integrity and financial prudence among public officials. However, it’s important to note that while Buhari’s personal assets remained stable, his administration faced challenges with corruption among some appointees and associates. Despite these issues, Buhari’s personal financial conduct has been portrayed as exemplary, reflecting his purported commitment to a modest and transparent lifestyle. These developments underscore the complexities of governance in Nigeria, where personal integrity at the leadership level contrasts with broader systemic challenges. Buhari’s asset declarations provide insight into his personal financial practices, but they also invite scrutiny of the wider administrative and political environment during his administration.

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Davido Announces White Wedding Date with Chioma

Davido Sets Date for White Wedding with Chioma

Afrobeats superstar Davido has officially announced the date for his long-anticipated white wedding with his longtime partner, Chioma Rowland. The couple, who have been together for several years and share a son, are set to tie the knot in a lavish ceremony that fans and celebrities alike have been eagerly waiting for. The announcement, made via Davido’s social media platforms, has sent waves of excitement through the entertainment world. While the singer didn’t reveal too many details, he confirmed that the white wedding will take place in Lagos and promised it would be a grand celebration of love and family. Davido and Chioma had their traditional wedding in a private ceremony, and since then, fans have been speculating about when the white wedding would happen. Known for his deep affection for Chioma, Davido often refers to her as his “wife” even before the legal formalities were completed. As preparations begin for what many are calling the wedding of the year, the couple has received an outpouring of congratulations and support from fans, fellow artists, and public figures. With Davido’s star power and Chioma’s graceful presence, their upcoming wedding is set to be a beautiful celebration of love, loyalty, and culture.

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New Yam Festival: Honoring Tradition, Life, and Cultural Heritage

New Yam Festival: Honoring Tradition, Life, and Cultural Heritage

The New Yam Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration observed by the Igbo people of Nigeria, one of the country’s largest ethnic groups. Celebrated at the end of the rainy season—typically in August or September—the festival marks the harvest of the new yam crop, a staple food in many Nigerian communities. The exact date is usually determined by community elders, and the event holds deep spiritual and cultural meaning. This week-long celebration begins with rituals to thank the gods for the successful harvest. The ceremonies are rich in traditional practices, including drumming, dancing, singing, and colorful displays of attire. Special dishes made from yam—such as yam porridge and yam soup—are prepared and shared among families and visitors. One key tradition is that the first yam harvested is offered to the elders, symbolizing respect and unity within the community. Beyond food and festivity, the festival serves as a powerful expression of Igbo identity and heritage. It brings people together to celebrate not just the harvest, but also their shared history and values. It’s a time of communal joy and reflection, where gratitude is offered for the blessings of the land, and prayers are made for continued prosperity in the coming year. Even if one cannot attend the festival in Nigeria, there are many ways to take part in the spirit of the celebration. Learning about Igbo culture, cooking traditional meals, or enjoying Igbo music and dance performances are meaningful ways to connect. At its heart, the New Yam Festival is about giving thanks, celebrating life, and honoring culture—values that resonate far beyond the fields of Nigeria.

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Police Condemn Assault on Female Driver, Arrest Suspect

The Lagos State Police Command has condemned the viral video circulating on social media, depicting the assault of one Yetunde Amole by a suspected thug near the Oriental Hotel area in Lagos. The Command in a statement posted on social media frowned at the act in the strongest terms, just as they updated the public on the actions already taken. The statement reads; “The incident occurred on April 7, 2025, at about 1400hrs, when the suspect, identified as Friday Onu, was caught attempting to steal Amole’s car battery. Amole, courageously Lagos State Police Command intervened to prevent the theft, resulting in the suspect assaulting her. “Following a prompt response by officers of Maroko Division, Friday Onu was arrested shortly after the incident and detained at the division. Preparations for his arraignment were underway.”

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Gov. Adeleke Seeks UK Subnational Investment, Signs MoU on Investment Facilitation

Governor Ademola Adeleke on Tuesday at the House of Commons in London, tasked the United Kingdom government to focus on subnational investment in Nigeria with emphasis on Osun state which he called the heartland of South Western Nigeria. The Governor made the clarion call at an investment working visit hosted by the UK Prime Minister’s Envoy to Nigeria on Trade and Investment, Rt. Hon Florence Eshalomi MP attended by the management team of ESG Management Services UK Ltd. and other private sector representatives. Governor Adeleke said this is the time Nigeria and the UK should further close ranks in bilateral business relations, citing “the uncertainty in the global economy calls for more partnerships between and among members of the Commonwealth of Nations. “Aside from binational collaboration, We advocate a further linkage between the British economy and subnational entities in Nigeria. The openings and prospects are too much to be ignored”, the Governor canvassed. Making a strong case for Osun state as an investment destination, Senator Adeleke noted that “Osun presents a rare opportunity for such an economic partnership. Osun state, with a population of about five million people, is the heartland of Yoruba people. South West comprises six states, but Osun state is at the core. “We have huge potential for investment in mining, agriculture, digital economy, free trade zone, creative economy, and others. We have a well trained labor force and a commendable investment environment. “Osun boasts of being the most peaceful state in the country with a high rating in the ease of doing business. Our investment environment is boosted by a 45-day window for processing of Certificate of Occupancy, elimination of multiple taxation through a unified tax system, and operation of a one-stop shop for investment processes. “Above all, we have a strict system for the protection of investment and investors. An added advantage is our well-developed business community organised under the Osun State Chamber of Commerce and Industry”, said the Governor leading a team of businessmen and technocrats. He said the Osun government has reduced the state infrastructure deficit by over 50 percent, promising that by the 2025 intervention plans, the deficit reduction is targeted to be over 70 percent.

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