HOMEWORK GROUP NIGERIA CODE OF CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Department Responsible for the Implementation of the Governance Code
In line with the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance, the effective implementation and continuous adherence to the Code of Corporate Governance is imperative for the ethical conduct and success of the Homework Group. In collaboration with the Group Head, Legal, and Administration, the Group Chief Corporate Services Officer is primarily responsible for embedding this Governance Code throughout the organization. They must ensure the Governance Code is distributed, comprehensively understood, and embedded into all employees' daily activities and decision-making processes.
Departmental heads are integral to the effective operation of this framework as they are the custodians of the Code within their areas of influence. They are tasked with ensuring that each team member knows the Code and receives the necessary training and support to adhere to its stipulations. These leaders must lead by example, demonstrate ethical behavior, and monitor their teams.
The Governance Code becomes effective upon formal approval and shall remain in force for two (2) years. Before the expiration of this term, or earlier if necessary, the Code will be subject to a comprehensive review to assess its effectiveness and make any revisions needed to keep pace with changes in legal requirements, industry best practices, or the company's strategic goals.
1.3.2 Ensuring Adherence, Reporting Breaches, and Conducting Inquiries
The credibility of the Company’s operations and the trust it builds with its stakeholders rely on every employee's adherence to the Governance Code. All personnel are required to act under the Company’s policies and the ethos of the Code.
To manage and report potential ethical breaches effectively, the Company has established the following structured processes:
A. Immediate Supervisor
The immediate supervisor is the first point of contact for reporting any suspected breaches. These supervisors are equipped to handle reports with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism. They are expected to escalate the issue to the Group Chief Corporate Services Officer without delay, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the process.
B. Group Head, Legal and Administration
Should specific circumstances necessitate an alternative reporting route, employees may directly approach the Group Head, Legal, and Administration. This ensures that employees have a secure means of reporting sensitive issues while maintaining stringent confidentiality.
Investigations are conducted based on the nature of each report and typically involve a thorough collection of statements from all parties involved while maintaining strict confidentiality.
1.3.2.1 Resolution of Complaints
After an investigation, the findings are communicated to the complainant and the accused. Substantiated complaints will result in disciplinary actions by the Company’s policies, commensurate with the gravity of the violation.
The Group Head, Legal and Administration, or an appointed delegate will supervise the investigation. A comprehensive report and recommendations will be prepared for the Disciplinary Committee’s assessment.
For matters requiring executive-level attention, the Group Managing Director, the Group Head, Legal and Administration, and the concerned Department Head will review the case and decide in a manner that respects fairness and due process.
If the complaint involves high-level executives, the findings and recommendations will be presented to the Board of Directors for an impartial judgment.
The Board of Directors, the Group Head, Legal and Administration, the Group Chief Corporate Services Officer, Human Resources, and Executive Management will decide based on the evidence, ensuring accountability at all management levels.
1.3.2.2 Prohibition of Retaliation
The Company promotes a culture where ethical concerns can be expressed without fear of retaliation. Any retribution against individuals who report violations in good faith or participate in investigations is strictly prohibited and subject to severe disciplinary measures.
1.3.2.3 Baseless Complaints
If a complaint is found malicious or made with the intent to harm, the Company will take it seriously and take disciplinary action against the complainant. This policy protects the reporting system's integrity and prevents false allegations.
1.3.3 Imposition of Penalties
Compliance with the Governance Code is essential. Violations by any member of the Company, including the failure to report known breaches, are considered serious offenses and will invoke the disciplinary measures set out in the Company’s Disciplinary Policy.
Punishments will be proportionate to the breach and may range from warnings to dismissal, decided equitably and transparently. Directors and senior executives are also subject to these sanctions, ensuring leadership is held to even higher standards.
The Company will always comply with applicable laws and work with relevant authorities to address ethical breaches.
The Company’s steadfast enforcement of the Governance Code ensures it maintains its status as an ethical and trustworthy entity, which is fundamental to its continuous success.
WELCOME MESSAGE
On behalf of the management and team, I welcome you to Homework Group and wish you every success. At Homework, each employee contributes directly to the company's growth and success, and we hope you will take pride in being a member of our team.
This handbook was developed to describe some of our employees' expectations and outline the policies, programs, and benefits available to eligible employees.
The employee should become familiar with this handbook as soon as possible, for it will answer many questions about employment with Homework Group.
A professional relationship is more straightforward when all employees know the culture and values. This guide will help you better understand our vision for our business's future and the challenges ahead.
We hope that your experience in this company will be challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding.
-Executive Management.
INTRODUCTORY MESSAGE
It is a beautiful experience to welcome you to our company. This handbook is a summarized tour of the core scope of our company, Homework Group.
The tour of Homework begins with the knowledge that we are here to serve special humans who have exquisite taste for unique developments that stand out. We pay attention to every detail in the design and implementation phases, expecting delivery with little space for complaints.
Our culture at Homework is to take the necessary risk in selecting the best location and project that suits clients, investors, and end-users depending on their expectations while delivering quality services with customer satisfaction as a priority.
At Homework, we do more than have a community of workers. We have consciously enlightened staff members who take service and project delivery personally. The company's ideals transcend profit-making and are geared towards delivering affordable, quality, and professional services while meeting the needs of our distinguished clients. At Homework, we envision delivering quality development projects through the most subsidized means available to enable people of good taste to enjoy premium developments across Nigeria.
Welcome on Board!
OUR FOUNDATION/OUR COMPANY
Homework Group Africa is a lifestyle conglomerate with subsidiary establishments running efficiently under it.
Introduction to Homework Group
Homework Group is a dynamic and integrated real estate ecosystem encompassing companies in property development, architecture, procurement, investment, facility management, and construction. It is committed to delivering holistic solutions and fostering sustainable growth within the built environment. Our collaborative approach, innovative practices, and unwavering dedication to creating value for our clients across every facet of the project lifecycle.
Our ecosystem has demonstrated unparalleled synergy across real estate, property development, architecture, procurement, and construction, enabling us to deliver seamless, end-to-end solutions that transcend traditional industry boundaries. Our ability to navigate complex project requirements with agility and foresight has resulted in successfully delivering diverse projects, each characterized by sustainable design, superior craftsmanship, and client-centric innovation.
We have delivered a satisfactory and seamless experience to all our clients. Our successes over the years exemplify how we intend to achieve all the laid-out plans you will encounter in this book.
Greetings and welcome to the Homework Group, a distinguished and pioneering organization that has shaped the real estate industry landscape since our establishment as an architectural firm in 2008. Over the years, we have transcended our original specialty to become a comprehensive, integrated ecosystem within the property sector. An unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability has fueled our growth. Today, we are celebrated for delivering a complete spectrum of real estate services that embody excellence and drive progressive development in the communities we serve.
Our Evolution
Our journey began with a single vision: to redefine the architectural landscape with innovative and sustainable designs. That vision has since expanded into a multifaceted mission as we have carefully cultivated our expertise and extended our reach into various real estate disciplines. By bridging the gap between ambition and achievement, Homework Group has become synonymous with holistic solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients and stakeholders.
A Symphony of Specialized Services
The strength and versatility of the Homework Group are reflected in the diversity and proficiency of our subsidiaries. Each entity operates with a high degree of autonomy yet is interlinked within our broader operational framework, ensuring collaborative success across all fronts. Below is a detailed exploration of the subsidiaries that form the pillars of the Homework Group:
Subsidiaries of Homework Group Africa are:
1. <!--[endif]-->Homework Capital (H.W.C)- Real Estate, Finance, and Investment
2. <!--[endif]-->Homework Development & Properties Ltd (H.W.D)-
Property Development
3. <!--[endif]-->Homework Design & Consultants Ltd (H.W.D.C)-
Architecture & Project Management
4. <!--[endif]-->Homework Procurement (H.W.P)- Procurement
5. <!--[endif]-->Titan Construction Ltd (T.C.L)- Construction
6. <!--[endif]-->Dunvale Court Ltd (D.C.L)- Facility Management
1. Homework Development and Properties Limited - As the flagship subsidiary, this division is at the heart of identifying and capitalizing on lucrative real estate ventures. It is responsible for navigating the complexities of property transactions and spearheading development projects that resonate with modern lifestyles and business environments.
2. Homework Design and Consultants Limited—Tracing back to our roots as an architectural firm, this division has blossomed into a hub of creativity and ingenuity. Our team of architects and consultants works tirelessly to deliver aesthetically captivating and environmentally responsible designs, ensuring that our projects contribute positively to the urban fabric.
3. Homework Procurement Limited—Our group's procurement arm operates with a meticulous eye for quality and value. By managing the acquisition of materials and services, they ensure that our projects have the finest resources while balancing cost efficiency and premium quality.
4. Titan Construction Limited—Our construction subsidiary has established itself as a beacon of reliability and excellence. Its commitment to safety, precision, and timely delivery has cemented its reputation as a leader in constructing edifices that stand the test of time and serve as landmarks of quality craftsmanship.
5. Homework Capital and Finance Limited—This financial powerhouse within the group provides critical insights into investment and asset management. Their expertise in navigating financial landscapes ensures that our internal projects and clients' investments are positioned for optimal growth and profitability.
6. Dunvale Court Limited - Facility management is a critical aspect of property value preservation, and Dunvale Court Limited excels in this domain. They offer comprehensive services encompassing all facets of property management, from operational efficiency to routine maintenance, all tailored to enhance client satisfaction and the intrinsic value of our properties.
We are Homework: We design, we develop, and we deliver.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Homework Group's commitment extends beyond project execution. We are dedicated to creating value for our clients, empowering our employees, and contributing to our communities economic and social development. We are driven by a culture of continuous improvement, where learning and adapting are integral to our operations.
We are also committed to responsible environmental stewardship. Our holistic approach to sustainability encompasses not only the ecological aspects but also the social and economic dimensions of our work. By integrating green practices into our projects and operations, we aim to create spaces that promote well-being for current and future generations.
Looking Forward
As we look to the future, Homework Group remains steadfast in its pursuit of innovation, driven by the passion and expertise of our team. We are continually exploring new frontiers within the real estate sector, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and fostering partnerships that will enable us to elevate the experience of living and working in the spaces we create.
We invite you to engage with Homework Group, where dreams are constructed with precision, passion, and a promise of excellence. Your journey with us is not just about building structures; it's about creating legacies that will stand as a testament to our shared vision of a better, more sustainable future.
Homework Group reserves the right to assign employees to any subsidiary without prior notice. All employment is done through Homework Group, and each job role services all subsidiaries.
The roles under any subsidiary still have a primary function with Homework Group.
This handbook clarifies the company's rules and regulations and reveals policies that bind the company so thatstaff can follow the guidelines that bind us.
Our Vision
We aim to efficiently execute projects with the best industry-recognized standard to achieve customer satisfaction.
Our Mission
As a conglomerate specializing in different sectors, our mission is to meticulously execute assigned projects to achieve the best results with the available resources at any given time.
Our Tag Line
We Design, We Develop, and We Deliver.
Our People
The people of Homework are fundamental to our success. We treat each other fairly and respectfully because a diverse workforce strengthens our culture, partners, and, by extension, our business, generating human capital, funding, and technology.
We have zero tolerance for any form of modern slavery; at Homework Group, we have the right to seek to bargain collectively.
Our Values
Our values define what it is to work with us, and we act in ways that are consistent with our values.
Our Core Values:
We use the acrostic D.U.E - P.I.T.C.H for our core values. It emphasizes the heart of our culture and how we do our work.
D- Dedication
U- Uniqueness
E- Excellence
P- Professionalism
I- Integrity
T- Transparency
C- Customer Satisfaction
H- Hard work
Our key policies include:
1. <!--[endif]-->Equal Employment Opportunity.
2. <!--[endif]-->Diversity and Inclusion.
3. <!--[endif]-->Communication Policy.
1. Equal Employment Opportunity Policy:
Homework Group is committed to fairness in employment. We ensure that all hiring and promotion decisions are based on individual merit, skills, and abilities relevant to the job. We don't discriminate against anyone because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or other legally protected characteristics.
This policy affects all parts of working with us, like getting hired, work assignments, pay, discipline, firing, and access to benefits and training. Employees who think discrimination is happening at work should tell their supervisor or Human Resources immediately. We take these reports seriously and protect those who make them from any negative consequences. Discrimination is against our rules and can lead to severe penalties, including losing your job.
2. Diversity and Inclusion Policy:
At HOMEWORK GROUP, we embrace diversity and provide equal opportunities for all our staff. We hire and promote based on ability, qualifications, suitability for the work, and potential for growth in the role. Different perspectives lead to better, more efficient ways of working.
We do not accept discrimination of any kind, whether direct or indirect, against anyone based on age, disability, gender, marriage/civil partnership status, pregnancy/maternity, race, or religious beliefs at any employment stage, including recruitment, terms of employment, training, or dismissal.
It's up to everyone here to support diversity and anti-discrimination in our daily work, decision-making, and behavior. We must all follow relevant laws and ensure we don't discriminate against colleagues, clients, suppliers, or anyone related to our business.
3. Communication Policy:
Employees should only respond indirectly if the media or outside sources ask about Homework Group, our employees, or our policies. Instead, they should send these requests to our company spokesperson to prevent spreading wrong or incomplete information, which could harm us financially or legally.
Regarding social media, employees should be clear that any posts they make are their personal views, not those of Homework Group. The company is not responsible for any outcomes from these posts. Sharing confidential company information is strictly forbidden and can lead to penalties.
Definitions for Communication Policy:
- "Authorized Spokesperson" means specific high-level employees or anyone else permitted to talk about company matters.
- "Confidential Information" is anything not public about the company or information we must keep secret by law.
- "External Communication" is sharing information with people outside the company.
- "Internal Communication" is sharing information within the company.
- "Material Information" is any information that could influence someone's decision to buy or sell our company's shares.
- "Publicly Disseminated" means information we have shared with the public widely.
Internal Communications Rules:
Communication inside the company must be respectful and professional. They shouldn't imply any political, religious, or racial messages. Everything official, like reports and emails, should use the approved company format.
Confidentiality is vital. Employees should only share confidential information when legally required or officially okayed. This includes private details about clients, colleagues, and the company's plans.
Only high-level employees can message all staff or speak to the media about company business.
External Communications Rules:
All messages to people outside the company must get approval from the Group Managing Director. This includes communications with shareholders, investors, and the like, and must follow the law.
Before we share any materials outside the company, like presentations, they must be checked by the Group Managing Director, Company Secretary, and Head of Corporate Services to make sure they're correct and reflect our brand well.
Talking to the media must be done carefully and only by people with permission from the Group Managing Director.
Investors and others should contact us at info@homeworkgroup.co. The Corporate Services team will respond within 24 hours. When necessary, we'll engage with the media or issue press releases to share crucial public information.
OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY
We expect our executives to create and uphold a proactive safety culture at every level.
"Having this policy helps us make ethical decisions even when facing a tough situation not explicitly covered in the policy. We are responsible for our safety, which aligns with the UNSDG GOAL for Sustainable Development," -Managing Partner, Homework Group.
Site safety:
Our 7W’s of Site Safety:
1. <!--[endif]-->We stop work if we think it's unsafe or where hazards cannot be controlled.
2. <!--[endif]-->We are responsible for the safety of our contractors, employees, and surrounding communities, per the UNSDG goals for sustainable development.
3. <!--[endif]-->We come to work mentally and physically fit.
4. <!--[endif]-->We participate in training on how to work safely and by health and safety policies and standards.
5. <!--[endif]-->We provide staff with the relevant equipment, and they also need to abide by the rules.
6. <!--[endif]-->We conduct training on how to work safely and under health and safety standards.
7. <!--[endif]-->We help our staff re-integrate into the workplace following illness and injury wherever possible.
1.1.3 OUR PURPOSE STATEMENT
Our purpose defines what it is to work with us. Homework Group aims to create exceptional real estate value through innovation, sustainable practices, and a commitment to excellence. We strive to empower our diverse team to drive growth and opportunity in the communities we serve, ensuring integrity and equality in every aspect of our business. We are dedicated to maintaining open, responsible communication within our organization and with the world as we build structures and legacies for future generations. Our purpose is to serve our clients satisfactorily, irrespective of the state of the market.
1.1.4. CLIENT RELATIONS
Clients are among our organization's most valuable assets. Every employee represents Homework to our clients and the public. The ways we do our job present the image of our entire organization. With each employee contact, clients judge all of us by how they are treated. Therefore, one of our first business priorities is to assist any client or potential client. Nothing is more important than being courteous, friendly, helpful, and prompt in your attention to clients.
1.1.5. FACILITIES
Our office is headquartered at No. 4, Olaitan Senbanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria.
1.1.6. MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY
Homework Group's management philosophy is based on responsibility, mutual respect, integrity, honesty, and teamwork. We must maintain a work environment that fosters personal and professional growth for all employees. The group is responsible for leading in a manner that promotes respect for each person.
People who come to Homework seek to work here because we have created an environment that encourages achievement and creativity. Homework is a household name in the industry and aims to become an industry leader in every sector. The mainstay of our strategy will be to offer a level of client focus that is superior to that provided by our competitors.
To achieve this objective, Homework seeks to attract highly motivated individuals who want to work as a team and share in the commitment and responsibility in risk-taking and the discipline required to achieve our vision. Attracting these individuals will build a culture promoting uniqueness and bias for action.
While we will be realistic in setting goals, expectations, and targets, Homework will also be aggressive in reaching its objectives. This success will, in turn, enable Homework to give its employees above-average compensation and innovation.
Benefits or rewards are vital elements that help us maintain our leadership position in the worldwide marketplace.
1.1.7. HISTORY AND OBJECTIVES
Homework started as an architectural practice in 2008, and a sister company was organically developed to handle development. Our first development project began in 2014, and since then, we have developed a host of residential estates, commercial projects, and private projects.
The fast-paced organization has grown into a group of companies that deliver the entire ecosystem in the development process, i.e., Real-estate investment, Design, development, construction, procurement, and facility management.
Homework grew from a single company with a staff strength of four employees to a group of companies currently with over 30 employees working for the
We are a conglomerate with offices in Lagos and across the nation. In the last five years, we have developed and delivered over 11 estate projects, with over 300 units in Lagos, and we still have more jaw-breaking projects in progress.
Homework Group smoothly manages all project categories and offers services to private and public organizations with zero glitches. We have achieved this through unwavering work ethics, staff coordination, and dedication to identifying the cavity in any sector and devising a sustainable solution to bridge the gap. We have delivered a satisfactory and seamless experience to all our clients.
"For every policy, there has
To be functional and efficient."
- Partner, Homework Group
Remodeling and restructuring are regular processes in Homework Group.
1.1.10. BUSINESS ETHICS AND CONDUCT
The successful business operation and reputation of Homework Group are built upon the principles of fair dealing and ethical conduct of our employees. Our reputation for integrity and excellence requires careful observance of the spirit and letter of all applicable laws and regulations and a scrupulous regard for the highest standards of conduct and personal integrity.
Homework Group's continued success depends on our customers' trust, and we are dedicated to preserving that trust. Employees owe a duty to Homework Group, its customers, and shareholders to act in a way that will merit the continued trust and confidence of the public.
Homework Group will comply with all applicable laws and regulations and expects its directors, officers, and employees to conduct business by the letter, spirit, and intent of all relevant laws and refrain from illegal, dishonest, or unethical conduct.
Good judgment based on high ethical principles will guide you concerning acceptable conduct. Suppose it is challenging to determine the proper course of action. In that case, the matter should be discussed openly with your immediate supervisor and, if necessary, with the executives for advice and consultation.
Compliance with this policy of business ethics and conduct is the responsibility of every Homework Group employee. Disregarding or failing to comply with this standard of business ethics and conduct could lead to disciplinary action, up to and including possible termination of employment.
1.1.11. PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS IN THE WORKPLACE (ANTINEPOTISM POLICY)
An anti-nepotism policy is a set of rules implemented by an organization to prevent the hiring or promotion of family members or close relatives of current employees or management. This policy aims to avoid conflicts, favoritism, and issues with employee morale that may arise when relatives or individuals in a dating relationship work in the same area of the organization. In this context, a relative includes individuals related by blood or marriage or those with a relationship like family ties. A dating relationship could lead to a romantic or sexual involvement. The policy applies to all employees regardless of gender or sexual orientation and strictly prohibits personal relationships within the Homework Group.
1.1.12. CONFLICT OF INTEREST/RESTRAINT OF TRADE CLAUSE
Employees must avoid conflicts of interest and seek guidance from Human Resources. Company executives must control business transactions with outside firms to prevent unusual gains. Promotional plans involving such gains require approval. Conflicts arise when an employee's decisions benefit themselves or relatives due to the company's dealings.
The existence of a relationship with outside firms does not imply a "presumption of guilt." However, employees must disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest if they influence transactions involving purchases, contracts, or leases. This disclosure allows safeguards to be put in place to protect all parties. Personal gain can occur if an employee or their relative has significant ownership in a firm doing business with Homework Group or receives kickbacks, bribes, gifts, or special treatment due to business dealings with the company. Employees are expected to dedicate 100% of their official work hours to their job duties, and any decline in commitment or performance may result in management advising the employee to refocus, resign, or face termination. Employees should consult HR for guidance in case of doubts about conflicts of interest.
1.1.13. CONFIDENTIALITY CLAUSE/NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT
During your employment with Homework Group, you will be privy to sensitive information about the company, its processes, and operations, including personal data of employees, partners, vendors, clients, etc., that may not be readily available to members of the public.
The protection of confidential business information and trade secrets is vital to the interests and success of Homework Group. Such confidential information includes, but is not limited to, the following examples:
• <!--[endif]-->Compensation Data
• <!--[endif]-->Pending Projects and Proposals
• <!--[endif]-->Computer Processes
• <!--[endif]-->Proprietary Production Processes
• <!--[endif]-->Computer Programs and Codes
• <!--[endif]-->Research And Development Strategies
• <!--[endif]-->Customer Lists
• <!--[endif]-->Scientific Data
• <!--[endif]-->Customer Preferences
• <!--[endif]-->Scientific Formula
• <!--[endif]-->Financial Information
• <!--[endif]-->Scientific Prototypes
• <!--[endif]-->Labour Relations Strategies
• <!--[endif]-->Technological Data
• <!--[endif]-->Marketing Strategies
• <!--[endif]-->Technological Prototypes
• <!--[endif]-->New Materials Research.
All employees must sign a non-disclosure agreement. Unauthorized use or disclosure of confidential information will result in disciplinary action, including termination and legal measures. Unauthorized copying or sharing of confidential information is prohibited. Employees must return all company property and information upon contract termination. Violations may lead to severe consequences, including dismissal.
GRIEVANCE/COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
GRIEVANCE POLICY
Purpose:
The Company is committed to providing a work environment where employees are treated with respect and dignity. The Grievance Policy outlines the formal procedures for addressing workplace issues that cannot be resolved informally.
Scope:
This policy applies to all company employees and covers grievances related to harassment, discrimination, work conditions, interpersonal conflicts, and other workplace issues.
Formal Procedure:
1. Employees must submit a written grievance to HR within [number of days] of the incident.
2. HR will conduct a thorough investigation within three days and may interview relevant parties.
3. HR will provide a written decision to the employee within six days of the completion of the investigation.
Investigation:
All grievances will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and investigations will be conducted fairly and impartially.
Resolution:
Decisions regarding the grievance will be communicated to the parties involved, and appropriate actions will be taken to address the issue.
Appeals Process:
Employees have the right to appeal the decision if they are not satisfied. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the Group Head, Human Resources, within three (3) of receiving the decision.
Non-Retaliation:
The Company prohibits retaliation against employees for filing a grievance in good faith.
Documentation:
HR will document and maintain All grievances and investigations confidentially for future reference.
Training:
Employees and supervisors will receive training on the Grievance Policy to ensure an understanding of the process and their roles.