As businesses begin to strategize how to navigate the year ahead, real estate experts in the country have underscored the need for a sustainable urban development for both emerging and seasoned investors.

They also called for purpose-driven development in the sector.
The experts made these calls at the Capital City Development Limited (CCDL) real estate convention 2026, held in Port Harcourt.

The convention with the theme “Spark: Igniting Your Real Estate Passion,” brought developers, investors, professionals, and first-time entrants face-to-face with a changing market, one demanding more intention, structure, and human impact.
Organised by CCDL, the convention reinforced the company’s commitment to education, ethical development, and investor empowerment.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CCDL, Uche Kalu challenged participants to rethink real estate beyond brick and mortar, urging developers to design communities that respond to real human needs.

He emphasised that success in real estate now requires disciplined planning, credible structures, and strong leadership, and not shortcuts.

“Markets reward those who are prepared,” he noted, stressing that professionalism and clarity are fast becoming competitive advantages in the sector.

He maintained that real estate must solve problems while emphasising functionality, affordability, and long-term value as the cornerstones of responsible development.
Kalu, drawing on years of professional practice, highlighted the growing gap between rapid urban expansion and livable community design.

He urged developers to prioritise functionality, sustainability, and long-term value, noting that today’s buyers are increasingly discerning.
His words: “The industry must move from selling buildings to creating places people can truly live in. So that is why we are intentional with our designs, estate, and our products. We believe that with this convention, we can always stay ahead of trends and gain insights that will shape our industry for years to come.

“So, the industry must focus on purpose-driven development because consumers are becoming intentional and strategic in what they want. So my advice is the sector must focus on building to drive development across the country, and this is the way to go for the industry.”

A business strategist Dr. Niyi Adesanya pushed attendees to confront limiting mindsets and embrace discipline, structure, and purpose in wealth creation.

According to him, there must be a blend of architectural expertise and strategic thinking that offers a refreshing perspective on the future of real estate in Nigeria.
On the strategic side, Adesanya challenged operators to rethink how they approach growth and investment.