Real Estate Investment in Nigeria; how to build a long-term wealth

Real estate remains one of the most profitable and time-tested investment opportunities in Nigeria.

While the naira continues to lose value and inflation keeps rising, land and property prices in places like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt have been growing steadily — making real estate a smart hedge against inflation.

In 2025, Nigerians who understand the real estate market are not just buying homes; they are building generational wealth.

This guide explains how to invest in real estate in Nigeria, the best locations, common mistakes to avoid, and how to start even with a small budget.

ALSO READ; best online business ideas in Nigeria

Why Real Estate Investment Is Profitable in Nigeria

  1. Land never depreciates — it increases in value yearly, especially in developing areas.
  2. High rental income potential in cities like Lagos, Enugu and Abuja.
  3. Protection against inflation — property value rises as costs increase.
  4. Tangible and secure investment compared to volatile markets.
  5. Generational wealth — properties can be passed down or resold for huge profits.

Best Places to Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria (2025 Picks)

If you’re planning to buy land or property in 2025, these areas show the best potential for growth:

Real estate investment in Nigeria

1. Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos

Known as “The New Lagos”, it hosts the Dangote Refinery, Lekki Deep Sea Port, and Lagos Free Trade Zone.

Land prices are still relatively affordable but appreciating fast.

2. Epe, Lagos

Rapidly growing with schools, industries, and good road networks.
A perfect spot for long-term investors who want 200–300% returns in a few years.

3. Lugbe and Kubwa, Abuja

Affordable compared to the city center but growing fast with residential demand.
Ideal for rental property investments.

4. Port Harcourt (Greater PH Area)

Oil city with strong demand for residential and commercial spaces.

5. Ibadan & Abeokuta

Lower entry costs and fast infrastructural development make them rising hotspots.
Types of Real Estate Investments in Nigeria

Kinds of Real Estate Investment

They are many kinds of real estate investment one can venture into depending on your goal and capital

1. Land Flipping

Buy land at a low price, hold it for a few years, and resell when development increases the Flipping
Example: Buying a plot in Epe for ₦1.5M and selling it for ₦5M after 3 years.

2. Rental Properties

Build or buy apartments and earn steady income monthly or yearly.
Works best in cities with high population growth.

3. Short-let Apartments (Airbnb)

With tourism and business travel growing, short-let apartments in Lagos or Abuja generate huge returns.

4. Real Estate Investment Companies

If you can’t buy property directly, invest through trusted real estate firms or crowdfunding platforms like Coreum, Risevest, or Wealth.ng.

5. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

Listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), REITs allow you to invest in real estate indirectly and earn dividends

Common Mistakes Nigerians Make When Investing in Real Estate

  1. Skipping property verification — Always check the land title (C of O, Governor’s Consent, or Deed of Assignment).
  2. Not researching the developer — Many fake real estate companies operate online.
  3. Buying land without survey or inspection — Never buy based on pictures alone.
  4. Ignoring location development trends — Growth potential determines your profit margin.
  5. Failing to document transactions legally — Always use a licensed lawyer.

ALSO READ; How to become a successful real agent

How to Start Real Estate Investment in Nigeria (Step-by-Step)

  1. Define your budget – Start with as little as ₦500,000 for land in developing areas.
  2. Choose your investment goal – Long-term (land banking) or short-term (rental income)?
  3. Research the location – Check infrastructure, security, and accessibility.
  4. Verify all documents – Avoid Omo Onile issues by confirming ownership.
  5. Buy from verified real estate firms – e.g., Landwey, Veritasi Homes, Adron Homes, PWAN Group.
  6. Secure your property – Fence it and put up a “Property Not for Sale” sign.
  7. Plan for development – Build when the area matures or resell when value appreciates.

How Much Profit Can You Make?

Land flipping: 50%–300% ROI within 2–5 years.
Short-let apartments: 10%–20% monthly returns.
Rental income: 6%–10% annual returns.
REITs: 8%–15% dividend returns yearly.

Pro Tips for Safe Real Estate Investment in 2025


—Work only with registered companies (CAC verified)
—Avoid pressure sales tactics or “limited offer” traps
—Always visit the site before payment
—Insure your property through Custodian Life Assurance or similar firms
—Document everything legally

Conclusion

Real estate investment in Nigeria remains one of the smartest ways to beat inflation and grow wealth steadily.

Even if you’re starting small, consistency and due diligence can turn a single plot of land into a multi-million-naira portfolio in a few years.

Remember — buy land now and wait; don’t wait to buy land.
The best time to invest was yesterday; the next best time is today.

Author

  • Omu Fidelis

    Omu Fidelis is a results-driven Digital Marketing Specialist and Financial Advisor at Custodian Life Assurance Limited, where he helps clients make informed financial and insurance decisions. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management (Second Class Upper), combining strong analytical insight with strategic business acumen.

    A passionate tech enthusiast, specializing in website design digital marketing and brand development, leveraging technology to enhance visibility and business growth. He is also the founder of Timing — a leading business and economy website dedicated to delivering timely insights on finance, entrepreneurship, insurance, and economic trends that shape Nigeria and beyond.

    Through his work and writing, Fidelis aims to empower individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools to thrive in today’s fast-evolving financial and digital landscape.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *