By Hadiza Galadima
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, speaking at the 2026 Nigeria Construction and Real Estate Outlook, made it clear that infrastructure isn’t just a “nice to have,it’s the “architecture of growth.”
Represented by Housing Commissioner Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, the Governor argued that the state’s survival as Africa’s largest city depends on building ahead of demand, not just reacting to it.
The governor highlighted Road, bridge, and rail projects like the Lagos Rail Mass Transit aren’t just for commuting,they are designed to unlock new residential and industrial corridors.
Sanwo-Olu credited Public Private Partnerships for accelerating delivery while managing risk and preserving public value.
More so a major focus remains on climate adaptive investments specifically drainage to ensure urban growth is resilient rather than “fragile.”
The Governor emphasized that infrastructure is a long term investment strategy, requiring persistence and data driven planning rather than “short-term political exercises.”
The RICS Nigeria Group Chairman, Tayo Odunsi, echoed this “cautiously optimistic” sentiment for 2026. He noted that success in the current market requires a “triple threat” of conviction,access to patient capital and a flawless Execution
Governor Sanwo-Olu reasserted that Lagos will drive economic prosperity through climate resilient infrastructure, stable policy environments, and strategic private sector partnerships to stay ahead of the city’s rapid urban expansion.
