Nigeria’s real estate industry is still emerging. That’s why so many things don’t yet work the way they should.
There are no fully functional mortgage systems. The Regulations are still developing. Banks don’t accept land as a strong collateral to fund estate development. These are symptoms of an emerging phase.

For entrepreneurs, this is both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge is that you can’t scale as fast as you want. The opportunity is that those who position early will reap the rewards when the industry advances.

Every builder, every investor, every stakeholder must understand, we are laying foundations. We are not yet at the point of smooth structures. This is the season of patience, grit, and long-term thinking.

Dr. Smith Ezenagu is the Chairman of Esso Group, a diversified conglomerate shaping real estate, finance, education, and media. Dr. Smith Ezenagu is recognized as a real estate & investment mogul, life coach, and private equity expert. He leads Esso Group and its subsidiaries: Esso Properties (awarded Nigeria’s Most Innovative Real Estate Company in 2024 and recognized as the best real estate company in Nigeria), Esso School of Enterprise (the leading institution equipping entrepreneurs), and Esso Capital (delivering smart, trusted financial solutions across Nigeria).