Building communities better than building properties – Opatola
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Immediate past FIABCI-Nigeria President Akin Opatola argues that real estate development should prioritise community building over mere property construction as the industry seeks greater international recognition.
Akin Opatola, immediate past President of FIABCI-Nigeria and senior partner at Olawale Jordan Company, says the Nigerian real estate industry must focus on building communities rather than simply constructing properties. FIABCI, derived from a French coinage meaning International Real Estate Federation, represents the global real estate profession, and Opatola has been pushing for greater membership and engagement in Nigeria.
In an interview with Daily Sun, Opatola spoke about his drive to attract the international FIABCI Congress to Nigeria and the broader state of the industry. He noted that the Nigerian real estate industry is getting international recognition, so making the Nigerian real estate profession more visible globally has become a key priority.
Opatola, whose firm has offices in Lagos and Abuja, highlighted the importance of professionalising the sector and deepening government engagement. He stressed that real estate development goes beyond bricks and mortar to creating functional, sustainable communities that support long-term economic and social growth.
His comments come as Nigeria's property market grapples with high construction costs, land administration challenges and a growing housing deficit. Opatola's perspective reflects a broader push within the industry for standards, transparency and international best practices as Nigerian developers seek to position themselves in a competitive continental market.