Infrastructure

Infrastructure and Construction: Balancing Growth with Policy Challenges

Nigeria’s construction sector stands at a pivotal moment, with increasing activity driven by urbanization and major infrastructure plans, but also facing persistent structural questions. Recent data highlights Nigeria as one of Africa’s fastest‑growing construction markets, valued at over $44 billion with projected steady growth, thanks in part to rising demand for housing, transport networks, and industrial facilities.

However, industry stakeholders continue to call for stronger policy support and implementation. For example, experts argue that the National Construction Policy introduced decades ago has yet to be fully realized, undermining its ability to tackle infrastructure deficits and abandoned projects.

At the same time, voices within the construction community have warned that frequent termination of government contracts could worsen unemployment and deepen insecurity, underlining the importance of predictable project funding and strategic planning.

Despite challenges, the Nigerian government has demonstrated commitment to infrastructure by prioritizing connectivity and national development, including expanding major road networks and housing projects across northern states—evidence that public investment remains a key driver of construction sector activity.

Water Supply

Water Treatment and Supply: Progress Amid Infrastructure Gaps in Nigeria

Access to safe and reliable water remains a central issue for Nigeria’s social and economic development, prompting significant government and development partner action in the water sector. A landmark initiative—the Nigeria Urban Water Sector Reform and Akure Water Supply & Sanitation Project—is now underway in Ondo State through a major partnership involving the African Development Bank and the Agence Française de Développement. This $223 million investment aims to expand water supply, modernise sanitation systems, and strengthen public health outcomes for over one million residents.

At the state level, authorities such as Lagos State have advanced flagship efforts like the Adiyan Phase II water project, which has reached critical construction milestones with pipeline installation pushing the project closer to delivering an additional 70 million gallons of potable water daily.

Yet, policymakers and experts also recognise systemic challenges. There are ongoing calls for reforms in water governance frameworks to ensure infrastructure upgrades translate into dependable service delivery, especially as climate pressures and population growth continue to strain existing systems.

Efforts like these—public‑private partnerships, targeted investments, and governance strengthening—demonstrate an evolving approach to water treatment and supply that balances short‑term access needs with long‑term resilience objectives.