The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers has outlined strategic pathways for aligning real estate development with infrastructure investment corridors, as part of efforts to drive sustainable urban growth in Nigeria.
The recommendations were made during the institution’s 56th annual conference held in Abia State, where industry experts emphasised the need for data-driven planning, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder collaboration.
Participants noted that large-scale infrastructure projects such as highways, rail lines, airports, and industrial hubs play a critical role in shaping property values and urban expansion.
They stressed that early identification of growth corridors, combined with professional guidance on land acquisition and development timing, could unlock significant economic value while reducing investment risks.
President of NIESV, Victor Alonge, said estate surveyors must bridge the gap between infrastructure provision and real estate development to ensure inclusive and resilient growth.
He explained that the conference theme focused on rethinking real estate development within the context of ongoing infrastructure investments, particularly under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, infrastructure corridors have the potential to stimulate economic growth, improve connectivity, and enhance regional integration across the country.
Experts at the conference warned, however, that corridor-based development must be supported by strong institutions and coordinated policy frameworks to prevent unregulated expansion and speculative land practices.
Second Vice President of NIESV, Emmanuel Mark, called for the establishment of a national corridor planning framework backed by legal and institutional support.
He urged the Federal Government to promote integrated planning that aligns transport, energy, and digital infrastructure within designated development corridors.
Mark also advocated for empowering state governments to implement corridor-specific land governance systems, noting that structured planning would help prevent land speculation and ensure orderly development.
On his part, Professor Bankole Awuzie highlighted the broader economic implications of infrastructure-led development, noting that such projects redefine land values and influence regional growth patterns.
He cautioned that while corridor development offers significant opportunities, it also poses risks such as inequality, fragmentation, and weak governance if not properly managed.
Also speaking, estate surveyor Christian Ifediora emphasised the need for sustainability in urban planning, urging governments to adopt green financing tools and strengthen institutional capacity.
He noted that cities like Lagos and Abuja are already experiencing the impact of infrastructure corridors on land use and real estate development.
Stakeholders agreed that integrating infrastructure planning with real estate development could drive inclusive economic growth, improve urban planning outcomes, and create more resilient cities.
However, they stressed that long-term success would depend on innovation, policy consistency, and effective collaboration between government and the private sector.
