Residential property prices in Nigeria are projected to grow between 5% and 15% in 2026. Urbanization, infrastructure development, and growing demand from the diaspora community are driving this trend. For Nigerians abroad considering property investment back home, understanding the market dynamics and potential pitfalls is crucial.
Where Is the Growth Happening?
Lagos: Continues to dominate with premium developments in Lekki, Ikoyi, and emerging areas like Epe and Ibeju-Lekki. Properties in prime locations are seeing 10-15% appreciation.
Abuja: Strong demand in Maitama, Asokoro, and the rapidly developing Gwarinpa corridor.
Port Harcourt: Oil sector recovery is driving renewed interest in residential and commercial properties.
Secondary cities: Ibadan, Enugu, and Kano are seeing increased investment activity, often with better entry prices.
The Challenges Diaspora Investors Face
Despite the attractive returns, diaspora investors face unique challenges that local buyers do not.
Trust deficit: Stories of developers absconding with funds or delivering substandard properties are unfortunately common. Without being on the ground, it is hard to know who to trust.
Documentation issues: Land title verification, Certificate of Occupancy processing, and survey authentication require local expertise. Mistakes here can cost you your entire investment.
Construction oversight: Without on-ground presence, monitoring construction progress is difficult. Delays and quality issues often go unnoticed until it is too late.
Property management: Managing rental properties remotely can be challenging. Finding reliable tenants, collecting rent, and handling maintenance requires someone you can trust.
How to Protect Your Investment
Before committing any funds, you should verify land titles through the state land registry, confirm the developer's track record with completed projects, engage independent legal counsel for contract review, and conduct physical site inspections before payment.
Do not rely on glossy brochures or promises. Verify everything independently.
How I-STRATA Can Help
For diaspora investors, we offer comprehensive real estate concierge services. We assess developer credibility, financial stability, and delivery track record. Our legal partners conduct thorough land documentation review. We provide regular site visits with photo and video updates. We handle end-to-end property management including tenant sourcing, rent collection, and maintenance.
Ready to invest with confidence? Contact our Diaspora Services team to discuss your real estate goals.
Sources: Knight Frank Nigeria, Estate Intel, Zawya, January 2026