Business
Investing in Lagos Waterfront Properties: Opportunities and Risks
Investing in Lagos Waterfront Properties: Opportunities and Risks by Dennis Isong
As the sun dipped into the Lagos Lagoon, Amara stood on her balcony in Victoria Island, watching the city lights dance on the water. Five years ago, she’d taken a bold gamble, investing her life savings in this waterfront property when others called her crazy. Now, as luxury developments sprouted along the coastline like mushrooms after rain, her investment had tripled in value. But with each new high-rise came fresh challenges – environmental concerns, infrastructure strain, and the displacement of local fishing communities. Still, as she sipped her evening tea, Amara knew that in Lagos, change was the only constant thing.
This market segment comes with its own set of opportunities and challenges that potential investors must carefully consider.
Market Potential and Investment Opportunities
Lagos’s waterfront properties represent some of the most premium real estate in West Africa. The combination of scenic views, prestigious locations, and limited supply has historically driven strong appreciation in property values. Luxury developments along areas like Banana Island and Eko Atlantic City have demonstrated remarkable returns on investment, with some properties experiencing value appreciation of 15-20% annually.
The growing affluent population in Lagos, coupled with increasing demand for high-end residential and commercial spaces, creates a robust market for waterfront properties. International companies seeking prime office locations and wealthy individuals looking for prestigious addresses continue to drive demand. Additionally, the tourism and hospitality sector’s growth has sparked interest in waterfront hotels and recreational facilities.
Infrastructure and Development Challenges
Despite the attractive prospects, investing in Lagos waterfront properties comes with significant infrastructure challenges. Many waterfront areas struggle with inadequate road networks, inconsistent power supply, and insufficient drainage systems. The risk of flooding, especially during the rainy season, requires substantial investment in flood control measures and proper foundation work.
Environmental concerns also pose significant challenges. Coastal erosion threatens some waterfront properties, necessitating expensive shoreline protection measures. Rising sea levels and climate change impacts require careful consideration in construction planning and long-term maintenance strategies. Investors must factor in these additional costs when calculating potential returns.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
The legal framework surrounding waterfront property investment in Lagos requires careful navigation. Title verification is crucial, as many waterfront areas have complex ownership histories involving multiple stakeholders, including traditional rulers, government authorities, and private entities. The requirement for various permits and approvals from bodies like the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) can lead to lengthy development timelines.
Investors must also be aware of recent regulatory changes affecting waterfront development. The Lagos State Government’s efforts to regulate waterfront development through initiatives like the Lagos State Waterfront Infrastructure Development Law have introduced new compliance requirements. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is essential for protecting investments and ensuring project viability.
Investment Strategies and Risk Mitigation
Successful investment in Lagos waterfront properties requires a well-thought-out strategy and robust risk management approach. Here are key considerations for potential investors:
1. Due Diligence: Conduct thorough legal and technical due diligence, including title verification, environmental impact assessments, and soil testing. Engage reputable local lawyers and consultants familiar with Lagos real estate markets.
2. Phased Development: Consider implementing projects in phases to manage cash flow and adapt to market conditions. This approach allows for better risk management and the ability to adjust strategies based on market response.
3. Infrastructure Investment: Budget for significant infrastructure development, including private power generation, water treatment facilities, and flood control measures. While costly, these investments can enhance property values and attract premium tenants or buyers.
4. Market Positioning: Carefully consider target market segments and development types. Mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces often prove more resilient to market fluctuations.
5. Local Partnerships: Establish strong relationships with local stakeholders, including community leaders, government officials, and industry professionals. These relationships can prove invaluable in navigating challenges and identifying opportunities.
6. Environmental Protection: Invest in sustainable development practices and environmental protection measures. This not only helps protect the investment but can also provide marketing advantages and potential premium pricing opportunities.
Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS.He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041
Alpha Morgan to Host 19th Economic Review Webinar
In an economy shaped by constant shifts, the edge often belongs to those with the right information.
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Alpha Morgan Bank will host the 19th edition of its Economic Review Webinar, a high-level thought leadership session designed to equip businesses, investors, and individuals with timely financial and economic insight.
The session, which will hold live on Zoom at 10:00am WAT and will feature economist Bismarck Rewane, who will examine the key signals influencing Nigeria’s economic direction in 2026, including policy trends, market movements, and global developments shaping the local landscape.
With a consistent track record of delivering clarity in uncertain times, the Alpha Morgan Economic Review continues to provide practical context for decision-making in a dynamic environment.
Registration for the 19th Alpha Morgan Economic Review is free and can be completed via https://bit.ly/registeramerseries19
It is a bi-monthly platform that is open to the public and is held virtually.
Visit www.alphamorganbank to know more.
GTBank Launches Quick Airtime Loan at 2.95%
Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, Africa’s leading financial services group, today announced the launch of Quick Airtime Loan, an innovative digital solution that gives customers instant access to airtime when they run out of call credit and have limited funds in their bank accounts, ensuring customers can stay connected when it matters most.
In today’s always-on world, running out of airtime is more than a minor inconvenience. It can mean missed opportunities, disrupted plans, and lost connections, often at the very moment when funds are tight, and options are limited. Quick Airtime Loan was created to solve this problem, offering customers instant access to airtime on credit, directly from their bank. With Quick Airtime Loan, eligible GTBank customers can access from ₦100 and up to ₦10,000 by dialing *737*90#. Available across all major mobile networks in Nigeria, the service will soon expand to include data loans, further strengthening its proposition as a reliable on-demand platform.
For years, the airtime credit market has been dominated by Telcos, where charges for this service are at 15%. GTBank is now changing the narrative by offering a customer-centric, bank-led digital alternative priced at 2.95%. Built on transparency, convenience and affordability, Quick Airtime Loan has the potential to broaden access to airtime, deliver meaningful cost savings for millions of Nigerians, and redefine how financial services show up in everyday life, not just in banking moments.
Commenting on the product launch, Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd, said: “Quick Airtime Loan reflects GTBank’s continued focus on delivering digital solutions that are relevant, accessible, and built around real customer needs. The solution underscores the power of a connected financial ecosystem, combining GTBank’s digital reach and lending expertise with the capabilities of HabariPay to deliver a smooth, end-to-end experience. By leveraging unique strengths across the Group, we are able to accelerate innovation, strengthen execution, and deliver a more integrated customer experience across all our service channels.”
Importantly, Quick Airtime Loan highlights GTCO’s evolution as a fully diversified financial services group. Leveraging HabariPay’s Squad, the solution reinforces the Group’s ecosystem proposition by bringing together banking, payment technology, and digital channels to deliver intuitive, one-stop experiences for customers.
With this new product launch, Guaranty Trust Bank is extending its legacy of pioneering digital-first solutions that have redefined customer access to financial services across the industry, building on the proven strength of its widely adopted QuickCredit offering and the convenience of the Bank’s iconic *737# USSD Banking platform.
About Guaranty Trust Bank
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) is the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, a leading financial services group with a strong presence across Africa and the United Kingdom. The Bank is widely recognized for its leadership in digital banking, customer experience, and innovative financial solutions that deliver value to individuals, businesses, and communities.
About HabariPay
HabariPay is the payments fintech subsidiary of GTCO Plc, focused on enabling fast, secure, and accessible digital payments for individuals and businesses. By integrating payments and digital technology, HabariPay supports innovative services that make everyday financial interactions simpler and more seamless.
Enquiries:
GTCO
Group Corporate Communication
[email protected]
+234-1-2715227
www.gtcoplc.com
Business
BUA Group, AD Ports Group and MAIR Group Launch Strategic Plan for World-Class Sugar and Agro-Logistics Hub at Khalifa Port
BUA Group, AD Ports Group and MAIR Group Sign MoU to Explore Collaboration in Sugar Refining, Agro-Industrial Development, and Integrated Global Logistics Solutions
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Monday, 16th February 2026
BUA Group, AD Ports Group, and MAIR Group of Abu Dhabi today signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore collaboration in sugar refining, agro-industrial development, and integrated global logistics solutions. The partnership aims to create a world-class platform that strengthens regional food security, supports industrial diversification, and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for trade and manufacturing.
The proposed collaboration will leverage BUA Group’s industrial and logistics expertise, Khalifa Port’s world-class infrastructure, and AD Ports Group’s operational experience. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the UAE Food Security Strategy 2051, which seeks to position the UAE as a global leader in sustainable food production and resilient supply chains. It also aligns with Nigeria’s food production- and export-oriented agricultural transformation agenda, focused on scaling domestic capacity, strengthening value addition, improving post-harvest logistics, and unlocking new markets for Nigerian produce across the Middle East, Asia, and beyond.
Photo Caption: L-R: Kabiru Rabiu, Group Executive Director, BUA Group; Cpt. Mohammed J. Al Shamisi, MD/Group CEO, AD Ports Group; Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO (Ports Cluster) AD Ports Group; Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Executive Chairman, BUA Group; and Steve Green, Group CFO, MAIR Group
Through structured aggregation, processing, storage, and maritime export channels, the partnership is designed to reduce supply chain inefficiencies, enhance traceability and quality standards, and also create a predictable trade corridor between West Africa and the Gulf.
BUA Group—recognised as one of Africa’s largest and most diversified conglomerates, with major investments across sugar refining, food production, flour milling, cement manufacturing, and infrastructure- brings extensive industrial expertise and large-scale operational capability to the venture. MAIR Group will provide strategic support in developing integrated logistics and agro-industrial solutions, creating a seamless platform for production, storage, and distribution.
Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, said:
“This MoU marks an important milestone in BUA’s international expansion and reflects our long-term vision of building globally competitive industrial platforms. Together with AD Ports Group and MAIR Group, we aim to develop sustainable food production and logistics solutions that strengthen regional supply chains and support the UAE’s Food Security Strategy 2051.”
He further added that, “This partnership represents not just a commercial arrangement but a strategic food corridor anchored on shared economic ambition, resilient infrastructure, and disciplined execution, reinforcing long-term food security objectives for both nations.”
A representative of MAIR Group added:
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to advancing strategic industries in Abu Dhabi and building integrated solutions that reinforce the UAE’s position as a global hub for trade, food security, and industrial excellence.”
A spokesperson from AD Ports Group commented:
“Our partnership with BUA Group and MAIR Group highlights Khalifa Port’s role as a catalyst for high-impact industrial investments. This initiative will enhance regional food security, strengthen global trade connectivity, and support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification goals.”
This MoU marks a historic collaboration that combines world-class infrastructure, industrial expertise, and strategic vision, setting the stage for a sustainable and resilient food and logistics ecosystem that will benefit the UAE, the region, and global markets alike.
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