Uneven Growth Predicted for Nigeria's Real Estate in 2026

Ayo Ibaru, the Director of Research at Panterra Real Estate Group, forecasts that Nigeria's real estate market in 2026 will experience uneven submarket growth due to pre-election uncertainties. Speaking at the 2026 Nigeria Construction Real Estate Market Outlook event, Ibaru highlighted that infrastructure development will act as a catalyst for economic growth.

He noted that the real estate market is projected to contribute 5-6% to the country's gross domestic product. Historical patterns from previous election years indicate a slowdown in transaction volumes, with significant dips in foreign investment anticipated, similar to trends observed in 2011, 2015, and 2019.

Ibaru emphasized that while short-term rental and commercial space may see a boost from election-related spending, long-term projects could face delays due to policy uncertainties post-2025. He also mentioned that the land market in 2026 will be influenced by infrastructure-driven stress and diaspora inflows.