The recently concluded IFMA Global Africa Conference 2025 in Lagos served as a pivotal platform, uniting facility management experts, policymakers, and innovators from across Africa to engage in transformative discussions about the sector’s trajectory.
A notable highlight was the presentation by David O. Korede, CEO of Bloom FM, a prominent Nigerian facility management firm. He delivered a compelling address focused on the critical role of ethical procurement and transparent bidding within Nigeria’s FM industry.
Korede stressed that maintaining integrity and openness is essential for fostering trust and ensuring long-term growth in the sector. He cautioned against unethical bidding practices, which often compromise service standards, stifle innovation, and erode the reputations of both suppliers and clients.
He remarked, “Advancement in facility management across Nigeria and Africa requires moving past the ‘lowest bid wins’ mentality. We must prioritize honesty, equity, and partnerships grounded in genuine value.”
Under Korede’s guidance, Bloom FM has set itself apart by integrating sustainability, cutting-edge innovation, and industry-leading methodologies to provide exceptional facility management solutions. The company remains at the forefront of discussions on cultivating a robust maintenance culture, enhancing energy efficiency, and leveraging technology to revolutionize the sector.
Another key moment was the keynote address by Babatunde Raji Fashola, former Minister of Works, Power & Housing, who highlighted the pressing need to reinforce Nigeria’s maintenance culture and ensure effective project execution.
Conference participants also explored themes such as fostering regional cooperation, advancing education and skill development, and adopting renewable energy alongside smart digital technologies within facility management practices.
Korede’s insights during the fireside chat were particularly impactful. He introduced a practical framework to address bidding challenges in Nigeria, combining ethical vetting, capacity enhancement for vendors, and transparent assessment criteria. His forward-thinking approach resonated deeply with attendees facing similar industry hurdles across Africa.
Organized by IFMA Global and the IFMA Lagos Chapter, the event was made successful through the dedication of volunteers, partners, and sponsors. It underscored the increasing acknowledgment of facility management as a vital driver of Africa’s development, promoting efficiency, sustainability, and economic progress.
As Bloom FM broadens its influence, Korede remains devoted to elevating the company beyond a service provider to a visionary leader shaping the future landscape of facility management throughout Africa.
