As cities across Africa continue to evolve, the conversation on urban development is increasingly shifting beyond infrastructure to the experiences that make urban spaces vibrant, memorable, and economically resilient. Through its upcoming waterfront development at Jabi Lake, Akida Hills is seeking to contribute to that conversation by creating a destination that brings together leisure, hospitality, entertainment, and public life.
In this interview with ROYAL IBEH, the founder, KAYODE BAMISILE, shares the thinking behind the project, the opportunities it presents for West Africa, and why destination-led development is becoming an important part of the future of African cities. Excerpt…
Akida Hills recently announced plans to transform part of the Jabi Lake waterfront into a major leisure and tourism destination. What inspired this vision, and what future are you trying to create through this project?
For us, inspiration came from recognising that great cities are defined not only by the infrastructure they build but also by the experiences they create. The places people remember are the places where they gather, celebrate, relax, and connect with one another.
Jabi Lake has always had that potential. We saw an opportunity to create a destination that celebrates one of Abuja’s greatest natural assets while introducing experiences that are still largely unavailable in Nigeria today. Whether someone comes for an evening by the water, a concert, a cultural event, exceptional dining, or simply to enjoy the waterfront, there should always be a reason to return.
