At a major real estate summit in Lagos, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo called for better housing practices that protect the environment and serve more people. Speaking at the 75th World Congress of the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI), he said Nigeria must rethink how homes are built.
He explained that using local materials and climate-friendly designs is now a necessity, not a luxury. Osinbajo said homes must meet the needs of both the people and the planet. He stressed that housing should not be for the rich alone, but for everyone including those in the informal sector.
Osinbajo praised past leaders who achieved results despite financial limits. He mentioned former Lagos Governor Lateef Jakande, who built over 30,000 homes in four years. He also praised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for delivering more than 12,000 housing units in just four years. He said both leaders succeeded because they had strong political will, planned carefully, and used local workers and materials.
He also urged banks and the government to make mortgages easier to access. He said digital tools like Proptech can help reduce fraud and speed up land registration.
FIABCI Nigeria President Akin Opatola supported Osinbajo’s message. He said real estate is about improving lives, not just putting up buildings. He believes Lagos has the drive to lead in innovation and sustainable growth.
FIABCI World President Ramon Riera also praised Lagos. He said the city is growing fast and full of new ideas. In his view, Lagos is the right place to shape the future of real estate in Africa and beyond.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu joined the event and restated his commitment to solving Lagos’ housing problems. He said his government is working on new ways to make homes easier to get and more affordable.
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