Afreximbank, others chart facility management investment pathway

A convergence of leading corporate brands, including the African Export-Import Bank, Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, and Julius Berger Facilities Management, took place in Lagos to map out a sustainable investment path for Nigeria's expanding facility management industry. The gathering, part of the 2026 World Facility Management Day celebration organized by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Nigeria Chapter, highlighted the sector's significant growth and evolving role.

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Facility management has evolved significantly in about three decades from informal maintenance practices into a strategic discipline that delivers measurable value across sectors.

Industry giants argued that facility management has transformed from a simple maintenance service into a crucial asset class directly influencing corporate profits, the longevity of infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. Sheriff Daramola, President of IFMA Nigeria, noted the sector's evolution over three decades from informal maintenance to a strategic discipline delivering measurable value across various industries. He stressed its role as a core driver of resilience in sectors like banking, healthcare, transportation, and public infrastructure.

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It is now a core driver of resilience in banking, healthcare, transportation, education, oil and gas, telecommunications, and public infrastructure.

Daramola emphasized that unlocking the market's multi-billion-naira potential requires a decisive shift towards global best practices. He called for deliberate investment in developing local skills, adopting new technologies, integrating renewable energy systems, and embracing circular economy initiatives. Laura Paeman, Managing Director of IFMA EMEA, added that corporate clients increasingly seek human-centric and adaptable spaces, underscoring the role of facility management professionals in creating supportive and well-being-focused environments.

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Strengthening Nigeria’s facility management sector requires deliberate investment in indigenous skill development, technology adoption, renewable energy systems, and circular economy initiatives.

The discourse also heavily addressed sustainable assets and climate financing, with the Lagos State Government issuing a warning about the necessity for real estate developments to adapt to environmental pressures to maintain their market value. Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, cautioned that rapid urbanization strains the city's infrastructure. He urged facility management professionals to proactively incorporate climate risk assessments and adopt green practices for long-term asset survival. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy to the Lagos State Governor, concluded that corporate profitability and public responsibility must be integrated, advocating for sustainable environmental practices.

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Facility management professionals play a critical role in creating environments that are welcoming, respectful, and supportive of people’s well-being.