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How the Diaspora Is Shaping Real Estate Growth in Nigeria by Dennis Isong

Many Nigerians abroad also play a role in financing community development projects. Some pool resources with others to buy large parcels of land, build mini-estates, or even start property cooperatives.

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A few years ago, a young Nigerian named Tunde moved to the United Kingdom to pursue a master’s degree in data analytics.

Like many Nigerians in the diaspora, he planned to work for a few years, save up, and return home someday to build something meaningful.

Years passed, and while he achieved career success abroad, he remained deeply connected to home through his family, friends, and memories.

One day, after a video call with his mother who mentioned how the family house in Lagos was falling apart, he decided to invest in a new property.

That simple decision opened his eyes to an entirely new world—the booming real estate opportunities in Nigeria being driven largely by people like him in the diaspora.Tunde’s story is not unique. Across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and even other parts of Africa, Nigerians abroad are becoming the backbone of property development back home.

In fact, this growing wave of diaspora investment is changing the face of Nigeria’s real estate industry.

It is fueling urban renewal, increasing property values, and inspiring developers to raise construction standards to meet global expectations.

This article explores how the diaspora is shaping real estate growth in Nigeria and why this influence continues to deepen each year.

1. A New Wave of Confidence: Trust Returns to Nigerian Real Estate

For years, one of the biggest obstacles Nigerians abroad faced when trying to buy property at home was trust.

Many had fallen victim to fraudulent agents, fake land titles, or uncompleted projects that drained their hard-earned savings.

This mistrust created hesitation, and for a long time, the diaspora community preferred to keep their money abroad.But in recent years, something has shifted. With the rise of credible real estate companies, transparent documentation processes, and digital innovations in property verification, the confidence level has soared.

Reputable developers now provide video updates, virtual tours, and even live streams of construction progress. Diaspora clients can inspect their homes in real time from thousands of miles away.

This restored trust is one of the main reasons how the diaspora is shaping real estate growth in Nigeria.

People who once swore never to invest again are now buying second and third properties.

Developers, in turn, are building better, smarter, and more secure homes to match the expectations of these overseas investors.For example, in Lagos—particularly areas like Lekki, Ajah, and Ibeju-Lekki—many estates are designed with foreign-based Nigerians in mind.

From modern architecture to advanced security systems and reliable estate management, the diaspora’s expectations are raising the bar for the entire industry.

2. The Power of Remittances and Its Ripple Effect

According to the World Bank, Nigeria receives billions of dollars annually in remittances from its diaspora population.

A growing portion of these funds now flows into real estate. Instead of just sending money for family upkeep or short-term projects, many Nigerians abroad are strategically investing in long-term assets like land and houses.

This financial shift has a ripple effect. Every property purchase from the diaspora supports jobs for architects, builders, artisans, agents, and legal professionals.

It fuels infrastructure development, boosts the economy, and encourages local banks to create mortgage products tailored for Nigerians living abroad.To understand how powerful this is, imagine an engineer living in Canada who buys a plot of land in Epe and builds rental apartments.

That one decision doesn’t just secure his financial future; it also provides work for local construction teams, artisans, and suppliers.

Over time, an entire community benefits.That’s the deeper reality behind how the diaspora is shaping real estate growth in Nigeria—it’s not only about individual ownership but also about the indirect growth it creates in the ecosystem.

Each investment contributes to employment, development, and local empowerment.Interestingly, many Nigerians in the diaspora are no longer just buying homes for themselves.

They are building rental apartments, short-let properties, and commercial spaces. The idea is no longer simply to “have a house at home” but to create income-generating assets that continue to appreciate in value.

This mindset shift is driving serious long-term growth in the sector.

3. Modern Taste, Global Standards, and Smart Living

Anyone who has visited new estates in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt recently would agree that the face of real estate in Nigeria is changing fast.

And a big reason for this transformation is the influence of diaspora investors.Diaspora Nigerians have been exposed to efficient housing systems, energy-saving technologies, smart home designs, and well-organized communities abroad.

They want the same standards back home, and developers are responding. Features like smart locks, solar panels, CCTV, motion sensors, and centralized waste systems—once rare in Nigeria—are becoming more common.

This modern taste explains how the diaspora is shaping real estate growth in Nigeria in a visible, physical way. Developers are no longer just building houses; they are building lifestyles. Estates are being designed with amenities like gyms, green parks, co-working spaces, and recreational centers.

The goal is to create communities that feel both Nigerian and international.In fact, some developers now specifically brand their projects as “diaspora-friendly estates.”

These developments often feature simplified documentation, flexible payment plans in foreign currencies, and legal guarantees to attract confidence from overseas buyers.

The result is a growing market where quality, comfort, and convenience go hand in hand.This evolution is not only changing how homes are built but also how they are marketed.

Online visibility, digital tours, and social media campaigns are now at the center of real estate marketing strategies because most of the target audience lives thousands of miles away.

4. Diaspora Investors and the New Urban Development Drive

When Nigerians abroad invest in property, they don’t just buy land—they ignite transformation in the communities around them.

This is one of the most powerful ways the diaspora is shaping real estate growth in Nigeria.Take Ibeju-Lekki for instance.

Just over a decade ago, the area was largely undeveloped and sparsely populated. But as more Nigerians abroad began to buy land there, the interest of local investors and developers grew too. Today, it is one of the fastest-growing real estate corridors in West Africa, home to the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Dangote Refinery, and numerous housing projects.

The same pattern is visible in parts of Ogun State, Abuja outskirts, and Enugu. Diaspora investments encourage urban expansion by creating demand where there used to be little or none. When land is bought, roads are built.

When roads come, electricity, schools, and shops follow. In this way, diaspora investments don’t just grow real estate—they grow cities.

Many Nigerians abroad also play a role in financing community development projects. Some pool resources with others to buy large parcels of land, build mini-estates, or even start property cooperatives.

This collective approach brings more professionalism into real estate, ensures transparency, and accelerates urban development.Interestingly, these developments often set new benchmarks for quality living.

The houses are better structured, the roads are properly laid, and there’s usually a plan for drainage, recreation, and green spaces.

All of these improvements contribute to a more organized and sustainable city structure.

5. The Emotional Connection and Future of Diaspora-Driven Real Estate

Beyond economics and technology, there’s something deeper driving this movement—the emotional connection. For many Nigerians abroad, owning property in Nigeria is not just a financial decision; it’s an emotional homecoming. It’s a way of saying, “I still belong here.”

The nostalgia of returning home for holidays and sleeping in your own house instead of a hotel is powerful. For some, it’s about providing comfort for aging parents.

For others, it’s about ensuring their children maintain a tangible connection to their roots.This emotional attachment explains why the diaspora is not just investing in houses but in homes—places that carry meaning and memory.

Developers who understand this emotional aspect are winning the trust of diaspora clients faster.

They go beyond selling land; they help people reconnect to where their story began.Looking ahead, the influence of the diaspora on Nigeria’s real estate market will only grow stronger.

Several trends are already shaping the future:Digital property transactions: More companies now allow buyers to complete the entire purchase process online, from viewing to payment and documentation.Joint ventures and co-ownership:

Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS. He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE.

Nigerians abroad are teaming up with locals to co-own property developments, reducing risks and maximizing returns.

Sustainable housing: The diaspora’s exposure to eco-friendly living is pushing developers to adopt greener designs, solar systems, and water recycling technologies.

All these trends point toward a more advanced, transparent, and investor-friendly real estate landscape.

Conclusion: The Diaspora as Builders of Tomorrow

When you step back and look at the big picture, it becomes clear that how the diaspora is shaping real estate growth in Nigeria goes beyond money or luxury homes.

It’s a story of reconnection, transformation, and progress. Every property bought from abroad represents faith in the future of Nigeria.

It is a declaration that home is still home, no matter how far away one lives.The diaspora community is helping redefine the meaning of development.

They are setting higher standards for builders, introducing modern tastes, fueling urban expansion, and reviving the sense of trust that was once missing in the sector. They are not just buying houses—they are building the next generation of Nigerian cities.

Just like Tunde, who now owns multiple properties in Lagos, many other Nigerians in the diaspora are realizing that investing in real estate back home is not just about owning property—it’s about contributing to the country’s growth story.

And as this movement continues, one thing is certain: the Nigerian real estate industry will never be the same again.

Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS. He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE.

For Questions WhatsApp/Call +2348164741041

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Mikano & Changan Named Founding Infrastructure Partners for Lagos Gran Fondo “EKO 170”

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January 9, 2026

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The organisers of Nigeria’s premier cycling event, the inaugural Lagos Gran Fondo “EKO 170” are proud to announce Mikano International Limited and Changan as the Official Platinum and Founding Infrastructure Partners.

The landmark 170km mass-participation cycling race is set to take place on January 11, 2026, showcasing Lagos as a global hub for sports tourism, healthy living, and sustainable mobility.

This strategic partnership forms the operational foundation of the event, with Mikano and Changan providing essential in-kind support. This includes official race vehicles from Changan’s range of reliable and innovative automobiles (distributed exclusively in Nigeria through Mikano Motors), power generation solutions from Mikano’s renowned expertise in energy systems, medical services, and comprehensive rider support throughout the challenging route.

The collaboration highlights a shared dedication to safety, excellence, and sustainability, aligning perfectly with the event’s goals and the Lagos State Government’s vision for innovative, world-class initiatives.

Endorsed by the Lagos State Government, the EKO 170 Gran Fondo will start and finish at the iconic Eko Atlantic City, taking riders through Victoria Island, across the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, along the Lekki–Epe Expressway to Epe, and back — offering participants a unique view of Lagos’s coastal beauty, modern infrastructure, and vibrant energy.

The event is expected to attract over 1,000 cyclists, from elite professionals to enthusiastic amateurs, from Nigeria and internationally.

As the exclusive Power and Infrastructure Partner, Mikano and Changan will receive prominent branding visibility across all event platforms.

A highlight of the partnership includes the introduction of a Mikano Clean Energy Hub at the finish-line festival, demonstrating cutting-edge sustainable power solutions.

With the foundational backing of Mikano International Limited — a leading Nigerian provider of power generation, automotive, and industrial solutions — and Changan — a globally respected automotive brand known for performance, safety, and innovation — the Lagos Gran Fondo “EKO 170” is poised to deliver an unforgettable, world-class cycling experience.

Participant registration remains open at www.eko170.com. Cyclists and supporters are encouraged to join this historic event that celebrates Lagos’s resilience and forward-thinking spirit.

Media Contact: Sabatha Joshua Media Relations, Lagos Gran Fondo “EKO 170”.

This partnership marks a significant milestone in elevating Lagos on the global stage through sports, infrastructure excellence, and community-focused innovation.

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CBN’s N500bn capital base: 14 banks to close operations or merge

Checks by our Reporter shows that the affected banks include First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Unity Bank, Keystone Bank, Union Bank (now Titan), Taj Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Parallex Bank, and SunTrust Bank…

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3 days ago

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January 9, 2026

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Fourteen banks have not met the Central Bank of Nigeria ‘s recapitalisation requirements .The deadline is March 31.

Checks by our Reporter shows that the affected banks include First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Unity Bank, Keystone Bank, Union Bank (now Titan), Taj Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Parallex Bank, and SunTrust Bank.

Others are FBH Merchant Bank, Rand Merchant Bank, Coronation Merchant Bank, Alternative Bank, and other non-interest banks.

However, nineteen banks have met the N500 billion minimum capital benchmark .

They include Access Bank, Fidelity Bank, First Bank, GTBank (GTCO), UBA, Zenith Bank, and twelve others.

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Why Tax Reforms Benefits Will Be More Than The Shocks – Kupoluyi, LCCI President

…The harmonisation of taxes will be a relief to companies that have been paying over 16 taxes.

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January 9, 2026

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The newly elected President of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr Leye Kupoluyi, spoke with ThisdDay Newspaper about the chamber’s advocacy focus during his tenure for the next two years. Excerpt:

What will be the direction of LCCI’s advocacy under your leadership?

Thank you so much for this question. As you know advocacy is one of our major mandates as a chamber because of the different interests that we are representing.

Under my leadership we will carry on advocacy as usual as evidence based engagement on how to strengthen Nigeria’s productive capacity and enhancing business generally.

Our advocacy will be for competitiveness of Nigerian businesses beyond the borders of Nigeria.

The chamber will focus on advocacy that will enable Nigerian companies to be very well competitive within Nigeria and in Africa because it is now a borderless economy.

Do Nigerian companies have the muscle to push their competitiveness beyond the country?

If we do not have the muscle then we have to develop it. But truly we have the muscle to push it. Nigeria is the hope of Africa.

Arguably Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa. I do not want to go into the statistics of people saying which country has the largest economy because there is no country in Africa that is bigger than Nigeria.

Therefore, if we cannot take the lead in Africa then there is no one to do it. There is no doubt that Nigeria is the arrow head of Africa.

What’s your reaction to the shrinking West African market for Nigerian products due to the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Republic from ECOWAS?

There are challenges in terms of organised legal exports to these countries even though most of the manufactured goods they require still come from Nigeria.

But definitely there are challenges in terms of doing business the way we know it at this chamber, which is formal, legal and legitimate trade and not through smuggling.

Informally, Nigerian goods are reaching these countries but there are challenges when it comes to formal trade. And we know that ECOWAS leaders are doing everything possible to bring these countries back into the fold.

What do you think will be the immediate impact of the implementation of the new tax laws from January 1, 2026?

Thank you very much. For every reform like Nigeria’s tax reform there must be some shocks and benefits.

But with the tax reforms we know that the benefits will be more than the shocks. It is a very good relief that the low income earners have been removed from the tax net.

The multiple taxations that have been an epidemic in Nigeria’s business environment for many years will be taken care of.

The tax reform must not be a burden to the people. It will unlock lots of revenues for the government because the tax net has been widened and strengthened. Also the harmonisation of taxes will be a relief to companies that have been paying over 16 taxes.

The reform will make the environment predictable because we will know where we are going. Its implementation will be transparent as we move along and be beneficial to both the government and the tax payers.

But we should wait to see how it goes in January. In our own case we keep enlightening our members and sending the feedback to the government.

Under my leadership we will carry on advocacy as usual as evidence based engagement on how to strengthen Nigeria’s productive capacity and enhancing business generally.

What’s your take on public apprehensions regarding the implementation of the tax reform?

Those of us in the orgnised private sector are looking at it as a relief because those multiple taxation will go, low income earners exempted, the tax net expanded and that the tax system made more transparent and harmonised. If these are achieved it will bring big relief to the organised private sector.

What does 2026 hold for Nigerian the economy?

The past two years tried our resilience but from all indications 2026 will be a year of growth.

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