Nigeria’s Real Estate Sector Leads the Economy; But Strategic Investment Matters More Than Ever

By: Samuel Adegbenro

Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), as analyzed and published by Nairametrics, show that real estate has officially become the leading contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Q1 2025. The sector generated ₦16.42 trillion in Q1 alone, overtaking major pillars like trade and agriculture.

To put things into perspective:

• Real Estate: ₦16.42 trillion

• Trade: ₦14.59 trillion

• Crop Production: ₦11.78 trillion

• Telecommunications: ₦7.24 trillion

• Crude Petroleum and Natural Gas: ₦3.79 trillion

That’s not just growth but dominance. Yet this rapid rise also raises an important question: how do you invest wisely in a growing yet increasingly complex market?

The sector’s expansion has naturally led to a surge in activity. Everywhere you turn, there’s a new estate banner on a street corner, or someone on your screen promising land five minutes from the expressway — even when the road itself is not yet developed. Alongside this momentum, however, there have also been concerns about uninformed purchases, unverified titles, poorly planned projects, and in some cases, reports of fraudulent schemes.

It is important to note that not every land purchase equates to a sound investment. The true value of land lies in its location, documentation, future potential, and the credibility of the developer. Unfortunately, many investors today are prioritizing affordability over long-term value, swayed more by marketing buzz than by fundamentals.

As an expert in this industry who manages the administrative backbone of a real estate organization, I see firsthand the importance of systems, structure, and responsibility in delivering real estate products. The mistake many people make is thinking that once they buy land, they’ve made an investment. But what makes land a smart investment is location, documentation, infrastructure, and a solid development strategy. If none of these is in place, what you’re holding may be closer to a “receipt” than a true asset.

We’ve seen cases where people purchased “promo” plots in undeveloped areas without title, infrastructure, or access roads — only to regret it years later. The land may have seemed affordable, yes, but affordable doesn’t always mean profitable.

That’s why at Riparo, we approach things differently. We don’t believe in pressure selling or vague promises. Every location we offer has a future. We carry out thorough due diligence and ask ourselves key questions: Will this land appreciate in two to five years? What major developments are planned for the community? Will it attract growth? Can our clients build here without legal battles or hidden costs?

We understand that clients are not just buying land; they are buying peace of mind, legacy, and future wealth. That’s why we are intentional about guiding our investors through a transparent, well-documented process. We believe that when clients are educated, empowered, and informed, outcomes are better for them and for the industry at large.

The real estate sector’s rise to the top of Nigeria’s economy is not just a headline — it is a signal. A signal that the market is maturing. A signal that opportunity is increasing. But also a reminder that only those who invest with clarity, strategy, and the right partners will fully benefit from this growth.

Moving forward, I encourage all current and potential investors to take a more deliberate approach to real estate. Ask questions. Demand documentation. Think long-term. And most importantly, work with firms that are not just selling land but are building value.

Own with strategy.

Own with Riparo.

Samuel Adegbenro,

Co-founder, Riparo Nigerian Limited.