Buy Your Dream Home: MREIF Introduces Lower Interest Rates for Nigerians

LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), a key driver of affordable homeownership in Nigeria has announced a major reduction in its mortgage requirements. The interest rate has now been reduced from a fixed rate of 12% per annum to 9.75% per annum.

The revised terms for the fund scheme, managed by ARM Investment Managers, is designed to address the financial constraints faced by many aspiring homeowners. By significantly lowering the entry barrier, MREIF and its group of financial partners are fostering a more inclusive and accessible housing market.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Wale Odutola, the Group CEO of ARM, stated, “Our role as fund managers is to ensure MREIF operates as a credible vehicle for lasting impact. The reduction in the down payment, alongside the competitive interest rate, is a strategic move to empower more Nigerians. This is a testament to the power of a public-private partnership that is genuinely focused on delivering tangible solutions and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic progress.”

The new terms are expected to accelerate the transition from renting to owning, providing financial stability and long-term security for countless Nigerian families.

It is important to note that the downpayment for the selected property can also be funded from the pension accounts (RSA) of willing beneficiaries, further reducing all barriers to participation in the scheme.

To learn more about this groundbreaking scheme, visit: https://www.arm.com.ng/mreif-about-mreif/

MREIF Cuts Down Payment to 10% and Lowers Mortgage Rates for Nigerians

MREIF-Cuts-Down-Payment-to-10%

LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) has unveiled new mortgage terms designed to make homeownership more attainable for millions of Nigerians. In a landmark move, the minimum down payment has been reduced from 20% to just 10%, while the fixed mortgage interest rate has been lowered from 12% per annum to 9.75% per annum.

This policy shift, part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda, tackles one of the biggest barriers to homeownership — the high initial equity contribution. With this change, more Nigerians can move from renting to owning their own homes.

The revised terms apply to MREIF’s long-term mortgages with repayment periods of up to 20 years, combining lower upfront costs, reduced interest rates, and extended tenure to ease the financial burden on households.

Dr. Armstrong Takang, CEO of MOFI, stated:
“These new terms reflect our mission to build a sustainable and inclusive housing market. By reducing the down payment and maintaining a low interest rate, we are removing major barriers to homeownership and creating a pathway to a brighter, more secure future for families across Nigeria.”

Wale Odutola, Group CEO of ARM, fund managers for MREIF, added:
“Our role as fund managers is to ensure MREIF operates as a credible vehicle for lasting impact. The reduction in the down payment, alongside the competitive interest rate, is a strategic move to empower more Nigerians. This is a testament to the power of a public-private partnership that is genuinely focused on delivering tangible solutions and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic progress.”

Beneficiaries can also use funds from their Retirement Savings Account (RSA) to cover the down payment, further reducing entry barriers.

Learn more at: https://www.arm.com.ng/mreif-about-mreif/

ARM announces New CEO as part of Strategic Leadership Transition

ARM Holding Company, one of Nigeria’s foremost investment management firms, has announced the appointment of Wale Odutola as Group Chief Executive Officer and Osahon Ogiemudia as Executive Director, effective July 2025. This strategic leadership transition marks a significant milestone in ARM’s 30-year journey and positions the Group for a new chapter of innovation, enterprise growth, and scale that is firmly aligned with Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.

The announcement follows the planned exit of Ms. Jumoke Ogundare, the current Group CEO, who will step down on June 30, 2025, after three remarkable decades of service, including a decade of leadership as Group CEO. Under her leadership, ARM reinforced its position as a trusted partner to individuals and institutions, expanded its asset management footprint, and deepened its impact across sectors.

Commenting on the leadership change, Ms. Jumoke Ogundare, the outgoing Group CEO, stated: “It has been a privilege to lead ARM. I am confident that Wale and Osahon will continue to uphold our core values while exploring new paths for innovation, growth, and stakeholder impact. Their leadership will ensure that ARM remains firmly aligned with its mission and long-term strategic objectives.”

Wale Odutola, the incoming CEO, brings nearly three decades of experience in Nigeria’s financial services sector. He currently serves as Deputy CEO of ARM Holding Company and has previously held leadership roles across key subsidiaries, including ARM Pension Managers, ARM Securities, and ARM Properties Plc. Recognized for his strategic foresight, disciplined execution, and operational excellence, Wale has played a central role in driving group-wide performance, business integration, and resilience.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Odutola said: “ARM has always stood for vision, integrity, and long-term value. I am honoured to lead this next chapter of growth alongside a team deeply committed to excellence and innovation. We will continue to anticipate the needs of our clients, contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic progress, and uphold the values that have defined ARM for three decades.”

Osahon Ogiemudia, who assumes the role of Executive Director, has led critical operational and corporate functions at ARM Holding Company. With a proven track record across various Group subsidiaries, including ARM Pension Managers and ARM Life, he brings a deep institutional knowledge and a strong focus on execution, client alignment, and sustainability.

This leadership transition reflects ARM’s long-standing philosophy of internal growth, institutional continuity, and client-centred evolution. It ensures that the Group remains resilient and agile in meeting the dynamic needs of its clients and partners in an increasingly complex financial environment.

Commenting on the appointments, ARM’s Chairman, Deji Alli, stated: This transition marks not just a change in leadership, but a renewed commitment to growth and relevance in today’s Nigeria. As the economy shifts and opportunities emerge, ARM must evolve to meet the ambitions of a new generation of investors and institutions. With Wale and Osahon, we have a leadership team that is deeply experienced, forward-looking, and grounded in our mission. They are well-positioned to guide ARM’s transformation into a more agile, growth-oriented enterprise.”

Known for its specialization in Traditional Asset Management and Specialized Funds, ARM continues to set industry standards in innovation, governance, and sustainable investment practices, remaining at the forefront of sustainable wealth creation in Africa.

About ARM Holding Company

Founded in 1994, ARM Holding Company is a leading Nigerian investment management firm, providing comprehensive asset management and financial advisory services to individual and institutional investors. We enable businesses to thrive and help our clients to maximize their returns and realize their most important goals. For over three decades, we have built a firm uniquely equipped to achieve these objectives, and our reputation for quality research, investment expertise, and value-added services has endeared us to clients both locally and internationally.

For more information, visit www.arm.com.ng.

MOFI, Family Homes Funds, MREIF Unveil Plan To Ease Mortgage Terms For Federal Civil Servants

The Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL), and the Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) have unveiled plans to ease mortgage terms for Federal civil servants in Nigeria under the MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF).

ARM represents MREIF in the arrangement, being the designated Fund Managers.

This development follows extensive consultations with key stakeholders aimed at continuously improving the terms for accessing mortgages under the MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) for Federal Civil Servants.

The goal of this agreement is in full alignment with the central goal of MREIF, which is to expand access to housing for Nigerians on a mass scale through a credible and innovative financing model. 

Expanding Access by Lowering Interest Rate, Equity Contribution

The agreement seeks to actualise key objectives, which include lowering the interest rate and equity contribution required from homebuyers, creating a framework to deliver mortgages at more affordable interest rates through blended finance solutions, and contributing to the One Million Homes Housing Project, a major component of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

A Result-Driven Partnership

The structure of this formal collaboration features MOFI, FHFL, and MREIF.

To address the equity contribution barrier, both MREIF and FHFL will jointly provide significant portions of the required mortgage funding, leaving homebuyers with a convenient equity contribution of only 10%. Additionally, this arrangement reduces the interest rate for civil servants to a single digit.

The interest rate reduction strategy includes blending funding sources with varying cost of capital, allowing loans to be delivered at significantly reduced interest rates. FHFL’s access to a funding line from the African Development Bank (AfDB) will play a vital cost-lowering role here.

As a mortgage scheme, a well-structured loan distribution and management plan has been proposed, which will feature engagement of Partner Mortgage Lenders to grant the mortgage loans, with all loans made to comply with the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC)’s underwriting standards.

Towards Lasting Impact

Commenting on the partnership, MOFI’s CEO, Dr. Armstrong Takang, described it as a “strategic cost-management intervention” for civil servants and other beneficiaries within the band.

On his part, FHFL’s MD, Mr. Abdul Mutallab Mukhtar, stated that through the arrangement, Federal civil servants would finally “realise their dream of owning decent homes”.

ARM’s Deputy Managing Director, Wale Odutola, expressed ARM’s confidence in delivering an impactful financing solution through MREIF, which he described as “a credible vehicle for lasting impact”.

About MREIF

The MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) is a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-approved and regulated fund designed to expand homeownership and strengthen Nigeria’s housing sector. With an AAA rating from Agusto and an AA rating from GCR, MREIF has established itself as a highly credible, market-driven investment platform to address Nigeria’s housing finance gap.

By bringing together public and private sector capital, MREIF aims to make affordable housing more accessible to Nigerians while supporting economic growth. With NGN250 billion already raised and over 100 mortgage finance disbursements made across three geopolitical zones, MREIF is a key driver of investment in long-term housing finance and reducing Nigeria’s housing deficit.

To begin your mortgage application with MREIF, call 02013305005, visit mreif.com.ng, or email [email protected].

DAAYTA 2025: ARM Awards ₦12 Million to Mariam Grey Pharmacy

Lagos, Nigeria – May 06, 2025

The 10th anniversary edition of the Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) has concluded on a high note with a special cheque presentation ceremony, where Jennifer Esiaba, founder of Mariam Grey Pharmacy, was awarded a ₦12 million grant.

The event which held on April 24, 2025, marked a decade of nurturing and supporting young Nigerian entrepreneurs with transformative ideas and the potential to create lasting societal impact.

This grant will enable the company refine its business model and undergo entrepreneurial training at the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University and participate in an acceleration programme hosted by a leading Lagos-based innovation hub all designed to support the company’s growth and long-term viability.

DAAYTA, established in 2015 in honour of ARM’s founding CEO, Deji Alli, is a flagship initiative designed to identify and empower early-stage businesses that address real challenges with sustainable and scalable solutions. Over the past 10 editions, the programme has become a beacon for innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth-led impact across Nigeria.

From numerous applications received nationwide, seven standout finalists were shortlisted for the final pitch: Dropp, Suwk Technologies Limited, Farm Boxx, Fertitude, Ilode Bio Energy, Dot Campus Africa, and the eventual winner, Mariam Grey Pharmacy. These ventures demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and a shared commitment to solving critical challenges across sectors.

DAAYTA 2025 Finalists

A panel of distinguished judges comprising industry leaders, investors, and innovation experts, evaluated the pitches before awarding the ₦12 million grant to Mariam Grey Pharmacy – a healthcare startup committed to making healthcare accessible and hassle-free for everyday Nigerians.

Speaking at the event, Jumoke Ogundare, CEO of ARM Group, noted: “It’s been 10 years since ARM began this remarkable journey with DAAYTA empowering entrepreneurs whose ideas are already changing lives across Nigeria. The programme has stayed true to its mission, and I can only imagine how many lives have been touched. As we celebrate this 10th anniversary edition, I say congratulations to the DAAYTA team, the winners, and every entrepreneur who has shared in this vision. The next decade promises even greater impact.”

Reflecting on the journey, Deji Alli, Chairman of ARM Holdings, added: What DAAYTA has achieved in the last 10 years is only a glimpse of what’s possible. With the momentum now established, I believe her impact on incubating and nurturing groundbreaking businesses will be even more profound in the years to come. I want to thank the ARM team and programme coordinators for their commitment to building something so meaningful and lasting.”

As ARM commemorates a decade of DAAYTA, this milestone reaffirms its dedication to fueling the entrepreneurial spirit that drives innovation, job creation, and inclusive growth in Nigeria.

About ARM

Founded in 1994, Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) is one of Nigeria’s leading non-bank financial institutions. With a legacy of innovation and trust, ARM offers a broad range of asset management and investment solutions for individuals, corporates, and institutions.

For more information about ARM and the DAAYTA program, visit www.arm.com.ng.

MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) Receives Triple A Rating from Agusto & Co for its ₦100 billion Series 2 (“Commercial Issuance”) Issuance under the ₦1 trillion Program

Lagos, February 2025 – ARM Investment Managers Limited (the Fund Manager) is pleased to announce that the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) has been granted a AAA rating, the highest possible rating by Agusto & Co, a leading rating agency. This prestigious rating is a testament to MREIF’s Sponsor’s support, robust risk management framework, and commitment to delivering competitive returns to its investors.

The highest possible rating from Agusto reflects the strength of MREIF’s Sponsor, the Fund Manager and the Trustee, its experienced and skilled investment team, and its rigorous investment process.

“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious rating from Agusto,” said Mrs. Kai Orga, Managing Director of ARM Investment Managers. “This recognition is a validation of the entire MREIF team’s hard work and dedication to delivering exceptional results to investors. We will continue to strive for excellence and maintain our commitment to transparency, governance, and investor satisfaction.”

The Agusto rating is a significant milestone for MREIF, as it provides investors with an independent and objective assessment of the Fund’s creditworthiness and investment quality. This rating will enhance MREIF’s reputation and credibility in the market.

About MREIF

MREIF is a closed-end real estate investment fund established as a unit trust scheme, pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Rules and Regulations, domiciled in Nigeria and denominated in Naira. The Fund is sponsored by MOFI and managed by ARM Investment Managers.

The mandate of the Fund is to bridge the Nigerian housing deficit, by addressing both the demand and supply side challenges through the provision of low-rate mortgages to intending home buyers through Eligible Financial Institutions (“EFIs”), and offtake guarantees to developers as a credit enhancement for raising construction finance for the development of residential homes.

The Fund will provide financing to EFIs at concessionary interest rates to offer long-term, low-cost, mortgage loans to qualified home buyers, thus creating effective demand for housing supplied within the Scheme and developing the mortgage market.

ARM Holding Company Celebrates the Retirement of Chairman Mr. Felix Ohiwerei and Welcomes Mr. Deji Alli as New Chairman

From Left Standing: Mr. Kofi Sagoe (NED, ARM Hold Co.), Mr. Offong Ambah (Chairman, ARM Harith), Mr. Deji Alli (Incoming Chairman, ARM Hold Co.), Ms. Jumoke Ogundare (CEO, ARM Hold Co.), Mr. Segun Adebanji (INED, ARM Hold Co.) and Mrs. Grace Adebanji. Sitting Center: Mr. Felix Ohiwerei (Outgoing Chairman, ARM Hold Co.)

ARM hosted an exclusive and well-attended retirement dinner on Thursday, 10 October 2024, in honour of the remarkable tenure of its outgoing Chairman, Mr. Felix Ohiwerei. The event celebrated Mr. Ohiwerei’s outstanding leadership and the significant contributions he made during his time as Chairman of ARM.

Mr. Felix Ohiwerei, who was appointed as Chairman of ARM’s Board of Directors in May 2006, played a pivotal role in steering the Company’s growth. His extensive experience, broad network, impeccable reputation, and unwavering dedication to ethical business practices were instrumental in shaping ARM’s success. Under his guidance, ARM expanded its portfolio and solidified its position as a leading force in Nigeria’s financial services industry.

As ARM bids a heartfelt farewell to Mr. Ohiwerei, the Company is poised for a new chapter of growth with the appointment of its founder, Mr. Deji Alli, as Chairman. Mr. Alli brings a deep understanding of ARM’s mission and values, combined with his visionary leadership and profound expertise in capital markets and the Nigerian financial services sector. This leadership transition is expected to ensure the continued success of the Company’s strategic direction, which has been key to ARM’s accomplishments.

Mr. Alli’s appointment underscores ARM’s commitment to maintaining its position as a leader in Nigeria’s financial sector while continuing to pioneer innovative products and services that define the Company’s legacy.

In his remarks on the transition, Mr. Deji Alli said, “It is an honour to step into this role following the distinguished leadership of Mr. Ohiwerei. His legacy is a guiding force for all of us at ARM, and I look forward to building on the strong foundation he established. Together with the Board, we are dedicated to driving ARM forward with a focus on innovation, client satisfaction, and impactful investments.”

About ARM

Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) is a leading investment management firm with interests across various sectors of the economy. It offers a comprehensive range of asset management services to a diverse clientele, including corporations, foundations and charities, high-net-worth individuals, and small savers. Since its establishment in 1994, ARM has grown into one of Nigeria’s most innovative and respected non-banking financial institutions, specialising in Traditional Asset Management and Specialised Funds.

For more information, please visit www.arm.com.ng or contact our customer support team at [email protected].

Sexual Assault Allegation

Lagos, July 31, 2024 – ARM Pension Managers (PFA) Ltd is aware of a serious allegation of assault involving our employees. We are deeply disturbed by this news and are committed to addressing the situation with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity.

First and foremost, our thoughts are with our colleague who has come forward. We want to express our deepest concern and support for her during this tough time. Sexual assault is a grave matter that has no place in our organization and society at large, and we stand firmly against all forms of harassment or violence.

This incident reportedly took place outside the office premises on the night of July 18, 2024, after an office team bonding event and involved two of our colleagues. We have initiated a thorough and independent investigation into the allegation, and we are fully cooperating with the law enforcement authorities to ensure that the investigation is comprehensive and impartial. The accused employee, an Executive in the Company, has been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation’s outcome. Additionally, we are offering support services to the complainant who has come forward, including counselling and any other resources she may need during this time.

We are committed to fostering a safe and respectful workplace for all employees with zero tolerance for sexual harassment or assault and will continuously strive to maintain a culture of integrity and respect.

We understand the gravity of this situation and the impact it has on all involved. Hence, we will handle this situation with the highest level of integrity and transparency.

ARM Trustees Appointed Sole Trustee for Pioneering Naira Debt Fund

ARM Trustees Limited is proud to have been appointed as Sole Trustee for the FCMB-TLG Private Debt Fund, Nigeria’s first Naira-denominated Private Debt Fund!

The Fund was established in the month of May 2024 with approval from The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), managed and sponsored by FCMB Asset Management Limited (FCMBAM) and TLG Capital Investments Limited (TLG Capital), United Kingdom respectively.

The Fund aims to raise N10 billion under Series 1 of its N100 billion program size. The FCMB-TLG Private Debt Fund is targeted at Qualified Institutional Investors (QIIs) and highnet-worth individuals (HNIs). It will invest in commercially viable and impact-oriented activities across key sectors of the Nigerian economy, aligning with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This offers investors a chance to earn competitive, risk-adjusted returns while supporting sustainable economic growth.

James Ilori, CEO of FCMB Asset Management Limited, highlighted the significance of this Fund at the signing ceremony on Monday, June 3, 2024: “This innovative Fund is a significant milestone in the Nigerian financial landscape. It opens a new avenue for professional investors to participate in the growth of key sectors of the economy while providing essential capital to organisations driving sustainable economic growth and development in Nigeria.”

Aletor Adoghe, representing TLG Capital in Nigeria, shared, “We are delighted to partner with FCMB Asset Management in pioneering this Fund. The Fund aligns with our commitment to investing in untapped markets and will significantly contribute to Nigeria’s broader economic development.”

 

We at ARM Trustees are excited to be at the forefront of this innovative initiative, poised to play a crucial role in supporting the growth and development of selected sectors and deepening in the Nigerian Capital Market by continuing to support innovations across the market.

DAAYTA 2024: ARM Unveils Winner, Awards ₦12m Grant

ARM Unveils DAAYTA 2024 Winner, Awards ₦12m Grant

Lagos, Nigeria – May 15, 2023

ARM’s Deji Alli ARM Young Talent Award (DAAYTA) program has successfully concluded its sixth edition with a virtual pitch event held on April 19th, 2024. The program was established in honor of ARM’s founding CEO, Deji Alli, to support young entrepreneurs with innovative and sustainable ideas capable of impacting society positively.

After a thorough review of over 750 applications from start-up entrepreneurs across Nigeria, seven outstanding companies were selected to pitch their ideas. The selected startups were Ecobarter Company, Goods and Services 360 Limited, Smokeless Briquettes Limited, 10MG Pharma, OJ Technologies Ltd, Zedit Technologies Limited, and Sanwo Technologies Limited.

The finalists delivered captivating pitches, demonstrating their ingenuity and the potential of their technologies to disrupt various industries. A panel of judges, comprising industry experts, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, tech enthusiasts, and seasoned professionals, evaluated the pitches and selected the winner.

The winner of DAAYTA 2024, Ecobarter Company by Rita Idehai, received funding of ₦12,000,000 (twelve million naira) spanning over a period of one (1) year. This grant will support the company in developing their business plan, completing an entrepreneurial education at the Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) in Lagos, Nigeria, and receiving five-month acceleration support for the development of their venture through a reputable entrepreneurial hub in Lagos, Nigeria.

 

The DAAYTA program is a proof of ARM’s dedication to empowering entrepreneurs that contribute to the Nigerian economy and are focused on becoming change makers in their communities. The CEO of ARM Group, Jumoke Ogundare, said in her opening remarks, “Our focus this year is on businesses that are solving problems that impact on a large scale. We have many common problems across Africa; we need entrepreneurs who can provide solutions for these problems and improve on the solutions provided, so we can tell an African story ten years from now as a result of what they’re building.”

Collaborator-In-Chief of TVC Labs, Tomi Davies, added that “through DAAYTA 2024, we anticipate the emergence of groundbreaking solutions, and look forward to witnessing entrepreneurial ventures that are not only innovative but also sustainable and scalable, addressing critical societal issues, environmental sustainability, healthcare, and economic exclusivity.”

This year’s competition also celebrated the diversity of talent and highlighted exceptional creativity among entrepreneurs, notably accentuating the remarkable contributions of women entrepreneurs in positions of leadership. The prominence of women-led ventures among the top three positions, emphasizes the indispensable role of women in driving transformation and igniting innovation within the entrepreneurial landscape.

About ARM

ARM is a leading investment management firm that provides diverse asset management services to a broad and diversified client base, including corporations, foundations and charities, high net-worth individuals, and small savers. Established in 1994 as an asset management firm, Asset & Resource Management Holding Company Limited (ARM) has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most innovative and respected non-bank financial institutions focusing on Traditional Asset Management and Specialized Funds.

For more information about ARM or the DAAYTA Program, visit www.arm.com.ng or www.tvcng.com.