society
The Importance of Ember Months in Nigeria’s Real Estate Sector by Dennis Isong.
The Importance of Ember Months in Nigeria’s Real Estate Sector by Dennis Isong.
Sahara Weekly Reports Ember months refer to the last four months of the year: September, October, November, and December. These months hold significant importance across various sectors of the Nigerian economy, and the real estate industry is no exception. The ember months bring about unique circumstances and opportunities that can greatly impact the property market. This article explores why these months are crucial for Nigeria’s real estate sector and how they influence market dynamics.
1. Increased Economic Activity
A surge in economic activity characterizes the ember months in Nigeria. As the year draws to a close, businesses strive to meet annual targets, and government agencies work to utilize their budgets before the fiscal year ends. This increased economic activity often translates to more money circulating in the economy, which can have a positive impact on the real estate market.
Higher disposable income: Many companies distribute year-end bonuses during this period, increasing the purchasing power of potential property buyers.
Business expansion: Some businesses may look to expand or relocate, leading to increased demand for commercial real estate.
2. Diaspora Influence
The ember months coincide with the holiday season, during which many Nigerians living abroad return home to visit family and friends. This influx of diaspora Nigerians has a significant impact on the real estate market:
Investment opportunities: Many in the diaspora see this time as an opportunity to invest in property back home, either for personal use or as an investment.
Increased demand: The temporary surge in population can drive up demand for short-term rentals and potentially influence long-term property values.
Foreign currency injection: Diaspora Nigerians often bring in foreign currency, which can boost the real estate market, especially in a country where the local currency may be experiencing fluctuations.
3. Cultural and Social Factors
Nigerian culture places a strong emphasis on homeownership, and the ember months often amplify this desire:
Status symbol: Owning a home by the end of the year is seen as a significant achievement, motivating many to make property purchases during this period.
Family gatherings: The holiday season prompts many to consider upgrading their living spaces to accommodate family gatherings and celebrations.
4. Weather Conditions
The ember months in Nigeria typically mark the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry season. This transition in weather patterns can impact real estate activities:
Construction boost: The dry weather allows for increased construction activity, potentially leading to more properties entering the market.
Property viewing: Improved weather conditions make it easier for potential buyers to view properties and for real estate agents to conduct site visits.
5. Year-End Goals and New Year Resolutions
As the year comes to a close, many individuals and businesses reflect on their achievements and set new goals:
Investment decisions: People may choose to invest in real estate as a way to meet financial goals or diversify their portfolios before the year ends.
New Year preparations: Some may aim to secure new living or working spaces in preparation for the coming year, driving up demand in the real estate market.
6. Government Policies and Budgets
The ember months often see increased government spending and policy implementation:
Infrastructure development: Governments may rush to complete infrastructure projects before the year’s end, potentially increasing the value of properties in certain areas.
Policy changes: Any new real estate policies or regulations slated for the new year may influence buying and selling decisions in the ember months.
7. Stock-taking and Portfolio Restructuring
The approach of the year’s end prompts many investors to reassess their portfolios:
Property disposal: Some investors may decide to sell properties to balance their portfolios or generate liquidity.
Acquisition opportunities: Others may look to acquire new properties to strengthen their real estate holdings.
8. Increased Rental Activity
The ember months can see a spike in rental activity:
Corporate rentals: Businesses may seek new office spaces or renew leases for the coming year.
Residential moves: Families or individuals may look to move to new rental properties before the new year begins.
9. Emerging Real Estate Hotspots
During the ember months, it’s crucial to pay attention to emerging real estate hotspots:
Satellite Towns: Areas like Ibeju-Lekki in Lagos or Kubwa in Abuja are experiencing rapid development.
Tech Hubs: Locations near growing tech clusters, such as Yaba in Lagos, are becoming increasingly attractive.
New Cities: Planned urban developments like Eko Atlantic City offer unique investment opportunities.
10. Types of Properties to Consider
Different property types may offer varying advantages during the ember months:
Residential Properties: High demand for housing during holiday visits makes this a prime option.
Commercial Real Estate: Office spaces and retail outlets can be good investments as businesses plan for the new year.
Land: Undeveloped land in growing areas can offer long-term appreciation potential.
11. Leveraging Technology for Remote Transactions
For diaspora investors unable to visit Nigeria:
Virtual Tours: Many real estate agencies now offer virtual property tours.
Digital Documentation: Explore options for digital contract signing and online payment systems.
Real-Time Communication: Utilize video calls for real-time property inspections with local agents.
12. Understanding Local Regulations
It’s crucial to be aware of recent changes in real estate regulations:
Land Use Act: Familiarize yourself with the implications of the Land Use Act on property ownership.
Foreign Ownership Laws: Understand any restrictions or requirements for diaspora Nigerians investing in property.
Tax Implications: Research recent changes in property taxes or capital gains taxes that might affect your investment.
13. Financing Options for Diaspora Investors
Explore various financing methods tailored for diaspora investors:
Diaspora Mortgages: Some Nigerian banks offer mortgage products specifically for Nigerians living abroad.
International Money Transfers: Research the most cost-effective ways to transfer large sums for property purchases.
Joint Ventures: Consider partnering with local investors or family members for shared investments.
14. Risk Mitigation Strategies
Investing during the ember months doesn’t come without risks. Consider these mitigation strategies:
Due Diligence: Thoroughly research property titles and ownership history.
Legal Representation: Engage a reputable local lawyer to oversee transactions.
15. Long-term Investment Strategies
Think beyond the immediate purchase:
Rental Income: Consider properties with strong rental potential for steady income.
Property Management: Research reputable property management companies if you plan to rent out your investment.
Exit Strategies: Have a clear plan for how you might eventually sell or pass on the property.
The ember months provide a distinct set of circumstances that make them an ideal time for diaspora Nigerians to invest in real estate back home. During this period, heightened market activity and the availability of potential deals create attractive investment opportunities. Additionally, the chance for personal property inspections and the ability to tap into cultural connections further enhance the appeal. However, successful investment requires thorough research, professional advice, and a well-defined long-term plan. By staying attuned to local market trends, utilizing technology, and being aware of relevant regulations, diaspora Nigerians can make informed and profitable real estate investments in Nigeria during this dynamic time of year.
For personalized assistance with property needs in Ojo or other parts of Lagos, interested individuals, particularly Nigerians in the diaspora looking to invest in property back home, can contact Dennis Isong, a top Lagos realtor specializing in helping Nigerians in the diaspora own property stress-free. I can be reached at +2348164741041.
Ramadan: Adron Homes Felicitates Muslims, Preaches Hope and Unity
Adron Homes & Properties Limited has congratulated Muslim faithful on the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan, urging Nigerians to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, discipline, and compassion that define the season.
In a statement made available to journalists, the company described Ramadan as a period of deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and strengthened devotion to faith and humanity.
According to the management, the holy month represents values that align with the organisation’s commitment to integrity, resilience, and community development.
“Ramadan is a time that teaches patience, generosity, and selflessness. As our Muslim customers and partners begin the fast, we pray that their sacrifices are accepted and that the season brings peace, joy, and renewed hope to their homes and the nation at large,” the statement read.
The firm reaffirmed its dedication to providing affordable and accessible housing solutions to Nigerians, noting that building homes goes beyond structures to creating environments where families can thrive.
Adron Homes further urged citizens to use the period to pray for national unity, economic stability, and sustainable growth.
It wished all Muslim faithful a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan.
Ramadan Mubarak.
society
Underfunding National Security: Envelope Budgeting Fails Nigeria’s Defence By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Underfunding National Security: Envelope Budgeting Fails Nigeria’s Defence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“Fiscal Rigidity in a Time of Crisis: Lawmakers Say Fixed Budget Ceilings Are Crippling Nigeria’s Fight Against Insurgency, Banditry, and Organized Crime.”
Nigeria’s legislature has issued a stark warning: the envelope budgeting system; a fiscal model that caps spending for ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) is inadequate to meet the country’s escalating security challenges. Lawmakers and budget analysts argue that rigid fiscal ceilings are undermining the nation’s ability to confront insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, separatist violence, oil theft and maritime insecurity.
The warning emerged during the 2026 budget defence session for the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) at the National Assembly in Abuja. Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (APC‑Kebbi North), chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, decried the envelope system, noting that security agencies “have been subject to the vagaries of the envelope system rather than to genuine needs and requirements.” The committee highlighted non-release or partial release of capital funds from previous budgets, which has hindered procurement, intelligence and operational capacity.
Nigeria faces a multi‑front security crisis: persistent insurgency in the North‑East, banditry and kidnappings across the North‑West and North‑Central, separatist tensions in the South‑East, and piracy affecting Niger Delta oil production. Despite declarations of a national security emergency by President Bola Tinubu, lawmakers point to a “disconnect” between rhetoric and the actual fiscal support for agencies tasked with enforcement.
Experts warn that security operations demand flexibility and rapid resource allocation. Dr. Amina Bello, a public finance specialist, said: “A static budget in a dynamic threat environment is like sending firefighters with water jugs to a forest fire. You need flexibility, not fixed ceilings, to adapt to unforeseen developments.”
The Permanent Secretary of Special Services at ONSA, Mohammed Sanusi, detailed operational consequences: irregular overhead releases, unfulfilled capital appropriations, and constrained foreign service funds. These fiscal constraints have weakened intelligence and covert units, hampering surveillance, cyber‑security, counter‑terrorism and intelligence sharing.
Delayed capital releases have stalled critical projects, including infrastructure upgrades and surveillance systems. Professor Kolawole Adeyemi, a governance expert, emphasized that “budgeting for security must allow for rapid reallocation in response to threats that move faster than political cycles. Envelope budgeting lacks this essential flexibility.”
While the National Assembly advocates fiscal discipline, lawmakers stress that security funding requires strategic responsiveness. Speaker Abbas Ibrahim underscored that security deserves “prominent and sustained attention” in the 2026 budget, balancing oversight with operational needs.
In response, the Senate committee plans to pursue reforms, including collaboration with the executive to restructure funding, explore supplementary budgets and ensure predictable and sufficient resources for security agencies. Experts warn that without reform, criminal networks will exploit these gaps, eroding public trust.
As one policy analyst summarized: “A nation declares a security emergency; but if its budget does not follow with real resources and oversight, the emergency remains rhetorical.” Nigeria’s debate over envelope budgeting is more than an accounting dispute; it is a contest over the nation’s security priorities and its commitment to safeguarding citizens.
Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba (Eritosin) Celebrates as She Marks Her Birthday
Today, the world and the body of Christ rise in celebration of a rare vessel of honour, Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba, fondly known as Eritosin, as she marks her birthday.
Born a special child with a divine mark of grace, Rev. Mother Eritosin’s journey in God’s vineyard spans several decades of steadfast service, spiritual depth, and undeniable impact. Those who know her closely describe her as a prophetess with a heart of gold — a woman whose calling is not worn as a title, but lived daily through compassion, discipline, humility, and unwavering faith.
From her early days in ministry, she has touched lives across communities, offering spiritual guidance, prophetic insight, and motherly counsel. Many testify that through her prayers and teachings, they encountered God in a deeply personal and transformative way. Near and far, her influence continues to echo — not only within church walls, but in homes, families, and destinies reshaped through her mentorship.
A mother in every sense of the word, Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba embodies nurture and correction in equal measure. As a grandmother, she remains energetic in purpose — accommodating the wayward, embracing the rejected, and holding firmly to the belief that no soul is beyond redemption. Her life’s mission has remained consistent: to lead many to Christ and guide them into the light of a new beginning.
Deeply rooted within the C&S Unification, she stands tall as a spiritual pillar in the Cherubim and Seraphim Church globally. Her dedication to holiness, unity, and prophetic service has earned her widespread respect as a spiritual matriarch whose voice carries both authority and humility.
As she celebrates another year today, tributes continue to pour in from spiritual sons and daughters, church leaders, and admirers who see in her a living reflection of grace in action.
Prayer for Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba (Eritosin)
May the Almighty God, who called you from birth and anointed you for His service, continually strengthen you with divine health and renewed vigour.
May your oil never run dry, and may your prophetic mantle grow heavier with greater glory.
May the lives you have nurtured rise to call you blessed.
May your latter years be greater than the former, filled with peace, honour, and the visible rewards of your labour in God’s vineyard.
May heaven continually back your prayers, and may your light shine brighter across nations.
Happy Birthday to a true Mother in Israel — Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba (Eritosin).
More years.
More anointing.
More impact.
If you want this adapted for a newspaper page, church bulletin, Facebook post, or birthday flyer, just tell me the format and tone.
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