Category: PM News

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Millions of voters across the United Kingdom headed to the polls on Thursday in the country’s biggest round of elections since the 2024 general election, with key contests taking place across England, Scotland and Wales.

The elections will determine who governs Scotland and Wales, while voters in England are choosing thousands of local councillors and several mayors in contests expected to test the popularity of political parties midway into the current parliamentary term.

Polling stations opened at 7:00 a.m. BST and are scheduled to close at 10:00 p.m., with early results expected overnight.

In Scotland, all 129 seats in the Scottish Parliament are being contested, with voters electing both constituency and regional Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs). The outcome will determine who forms the next Scottish government and who becomes First Minister.

The governing Scottish National Party is seeking to maintain its dominance after narrowly missing an outright majority in the last parliamentary election in 2021.

In Wales, all seats in the Senedd are also up for election under a newly introduced voting system. The number of Members of the Senedd has increased from 60 to 96, with 16 larger constituencies each electing six representatives.

The traditional first-past-the-post system has been replaced with the proportional D’Hondt method, meaning voters now cast a single vote for political parties rather than individual candidates.

The new system could significantly reshape Welsh politics by giving smaller parties greater opportunities for representation.

Meanwhile, in England, voters are electing about 5,000 councillors across 136 local authorities, alongside six mayoral contests in areas including Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets and Watford.

The local elections are expected to provide an important indication of public sentiment toward the ruling Labour Party government since it came to power in 2024.

Election officials reminded voters in England that valid photo identification is required to vote in local elections, while no ID is needed for parliamentary elections in Scotland and Wales.

Authorities also encouraged voter participation throughout the day, with broadcasters and election monitors closely watching turnout figures and regional voting trends.

No elections are being held in Northern Ireland, where the next local and Assembly elections are scheduled for 2027.

By Taiye Agbaje

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday dismissed a suit filed by former member, House of Representatives, Igbokwe Igbokwe, seeking an order nullifying Sections 88 and 29 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2026.

Justice James Omotosho, in a judgment, held that Igbokwe, who is also the Special Assistant (S.A.) to the Speaker of the House on Inter-Governmental Affairs, lacked the locus standi to Institute the suit.

Igbokwe had sued the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as 1st and 2nd defendants in the amended originating summons dated and filed on March 2.

In the suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/2115/2025, he sought two questions for determination and prayed the court for three reliefs.

He urged the court to declare “that upon considering the clear, express and unambiguous provisions of Section 66 (1) (f) 107 (1) (f) 137 (1)(f), 182 (1) (f) and 42 (1) (a) of the 1999 Constitution, Section 88 of the Electoral Act, 2026.

The second provides that “No political appointee at any level shall be a voting delegate or be voted for at the convention or congress of any political party for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election” is inconsistent with the provisions of the constitution and therefore unconstitutional, illegal, discriminatory, null and void and of no effect whatsoever.”

Igbokwe, who claimed to be an All Progressives Congress (APC) member, urged the court to declare that the provisions of Sections 88 and 29 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2026 are unconstitutional, invalid, discriminatory, and contradictory.

He said the sections are in conflicts with constitutional right conferred on him (plaintiff) and other citizens of Nigeria who are appointed to hold political offices to exit their appointments 30 days before election to the public office they seek to contest.

The plaintiff, therefore, sought an order compelling INEC to accept nomination of candidates who were political appointees and who resign or exited their appointments 30 days before election to the public office they seek to contest, as provided in the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Igbokwe, in his affidavit, said he was House member, who represented Ahiazu/Ezinihitte Mbaise Federal Constituency of Imo in the National Assembly between 2011 and 2019.

He said as APC member, he had the right to participate in the primary election of the party to vote and be voted for.

He, however, said that the provisions of Sections 88 and 29 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2026 will personally affect his constitutional right to retain his office up to 30 days to the 2027 General Elections in his capacity as S.A. to the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

According to him, by Section 29 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2026,every political party is mandated to conduct its primary election not later than 120 days before the date of the general election and submit its list of candidates to the 2nd defendant (INEC).

The plaintiff stated that the implication of this is that he must resign his appointment not later than 120 days to the general election to enable him participate in the primary election contrary to the constitutional stipulation of 30 days.

Igbokwe said he is interested in contesting for the position of member of the House representing his federal constituency in the 2027 poll.

Delivering the judgement, Justice Omotosho held that the suit was incompetent, the plaintiff, having lacked the legal right to file the suit.

“It is therefore clear that the provisions of Section 88 of the Electoral Act, 2026, which is impari materia with Section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act 2022 is valid and does not offend constitutional provisions as regards political appointees resigning their appointments before participating in the primary elections of their political parties.

“The National Assembly has not breached the constitution by making laws to regulate the conduct of primary elections.

“It is within its rights to do so as such regulations are not exhaustively covered by the constitution.

“The Electoral Act, 2026 is a specific legislation made to regulate political parties and the conduct of their primaries and the general elections,” he said.

According to the judge, the Act seeks to entrench internal democracies and prevent unlawful practices by political parties in accordance with Section 288 of the Constitution.

“The Electoral Act, 2026 including Sections 29 and 88 offends no provisions of the constitution and thus, there are no inconsistencies whatsoever between those sections and the constitution.

“Consequently, the reliefs of the plaintiff are bound to fail.

“In final analysis, the suit of the plaintiff is incompetent due to a lack of locus stand, the suit being academic and non-joinder of necessary parties.

“Even if the suit was competent, the reliefs are not grantable as the plaintiff is a political appointee not within the contemplation of Section 66 (1) (f) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

“If he intends to contest any elective position, he must comply with Section 88 of the Electoral Act, 2026 which is not inconsistent with any provisions of the constitution.

“Consequently, this suit is hereby dismissed for lack of merit,” Justice Omotosho ruled.

(NAN

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano Strategic Command, has discovered and begun dismantling a series of caves and subterranean hideouts in the Rimin Kebe area of Kano state.

The caves were being used for illicit drug consumption and trade.

Acting on intelligence and sustained surveillance under the recently launched “Operation Sharar Mafaka,” operatives of the Kano Command moved into the notorious Rimin Kebe enclave last Monday.

On arrival, officers confirmed the existence of multiple caves constructed and adapted by drug dealers as living and trading spaces.

Several sites were found furnished and provisioned–some set up as rooms and parlours with mats, pillows, food flasks, plates and cutlery–indicating sustained occupation and regular unlawful activities.

Other caves and tunnels observed appear to be under construction and may provide underground links between hideouts.

Commander Dahiru Yahaya Lawal directed operatives to dislodge several sites of the built caves and tunnels.

The agency is planning to demolish the caves and secure remaining hideouts within the area.

The operation forms part of the command’s intensified effort to rid Kano of illicit drug use and trade.

“We will continue to pursue these unscrupulous elements wherever they hide.

“Our commitment is unwavering: those who remain in the illicit trade should consider exiting now. We have come to stay until Kano is free from illicit drug use and trade,” said Lawal.

The operation is being carried out in line with the directive of the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), to pursue drug networks in every nook and cranny of the agency’s jurisdiction.

The NDLEA Kano Command called on members of the public to report any suspicious activity or locations to its local offices without hesitation.

NDLEA maintained that timely information from residents remain critical to proactively curbing the menace of substance abuse in Kano State.

By Kingsley Okoye

The Senate on Thursday passed the 2026 Electoral Act Amendment bill, with focus to provide jurisdiction of the court in handling pre-election matters.

This followed presentation of report by the Senate Chairman of Committee on INEC Simon Lalong (APC-Plateau) at plenary on Thursday.

The proposed amendment aims to address gaps, timelines and court jurisdiction in the resolution of pre-election disputes.

Lalong in his lead debate said the bill sought to address one of the most persistent procedural and constitutional challenges in the nation’s electoral jurisprudence.

According to him, it sought to address the uncertainty, multiplicity and inconsistency associated with the jurisdiction for the determination of pre-election matters.

He said democracy thrives not merely on the conduct of elections, but also on the credibility, certainty and predictability of the legal processes that precede the elections.

“The legitimacy of candidates and the integrity of party primaries are foundational pillars of representative democracy.

“Where the legal framework regulating pre-election disputes is uncertain or conflicting, the entire electoral architecture becomes vulnerable to confusion, forum shopping, contradictory judgments and unnecessary delays,” Lalong said.

He said the bill targets amendments to section 29 of the electoral act and introduces a new section 29A to clearly delineate jurisdictional competence in pre-election matters.

He said in spite provisions of section 285(14) of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 on pre- election matters, the legal system continued to witness conflicting interpretations, regarding appropriate court with jurisdiction to entertain disputes.

The uncertainty, Lalong noted results in conflicting decisions from courts of coordinate jurisdiction and abuse of judicial process.

According to him, the uncertainty also results in undue delay in the resolution of electoral disputes and avoidable constitutional tension between courts.

He said the amendment sought would bring clarity, order and constitutional harmony to the adjudication of pre-election matters.

He listed highlights of the amendment to include clause two of the bill which amends section 29 (5) of the principal act.

He said the clause provides that an aspirant may institute an action either in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) or in the jurisdiction where the cause of action arose.

“This amendment is both practical and equitable, it reduces hardship on litigants, improves access to justice.

“It aligns electoral adjudication with territorial realities surrounding political primaries and nomination processes.

“More fundamentally, clause three introduces a new section 29A, which is the substantive innovation of this bill.

“The proposed section 29A establishes a clear jurisdictional framework on pre-election matters relating to elections into the National Assembly, Governorship and State Houses of Assembly.

“It shall originate at the Federal High Court, with appeals lying to the Court of Appeal.”

He said pre-election matters relating to the offices of president and vice president shall originate at the Court of Appeal exercising original jurisdiction, with appeals lying to the Supreme Court.

Lalong said the proposal was not arbitrary, adding that it was rooted firmly in constitutional logic, judicial efficiency and the doctrine of hierarchy of courts.

“Presidential elections are national in character and constitutional significance.

“Given the sensitivity and urgency associated with such offices, vesting original jurisdiction in the Court of Appeal ensures expeditious determination by a superior court of record with nationwide competence and institutional capacity.

“Similarly, assigning jurisdiction over other pre-election matters to the Federal High Court promotes specialisation and consistency, especially given the federal nature of electoral administration through the INEC.”

Lalong said the bill also sought to eliminate the dangerous practice where litigants deliberately institute multiple suits in different judicial divisions in search of favourable orders.

According to him, such practices erode public confidence in the judiciary and undermine electoral stability.

“By expressly providing that no court shall entertain pre-election matters except in accordance with the proposed section 29A, this amendment introduces certainty and procedural discipline into electoral adjudication.”

He said the bill ultimately provides clear judicial pathway that would reduce delays and enhance judicial efficiency.

“The amendment before us is not merely procedural, it is institutional.

“It strengthens electoral justice, deepens democratic accountability and reinforces public confidence in our electoral process.”

Lalong said the bill was timely, necessary and in the national interest and urged lawmakers to support its passage.

Contributing, Sen. Mohammed Monguno (APC-Borno) after seconding the motion said the amendment sought was apt and germane.

According to him, it will lead to an improved experience in the nation’s electoral litigation and urged the lawmakers to support the passage of the bill.

President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio in his remarks after the bill was passed commended the Chairman and the committee members for their inputs on the bill.

He expressed believe that the bill would be assented to by President Bola Tinubu, saying that act would deepen democracy and governance in Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

KC/FEO

A prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has officially resigned from the party, citing the need to pursue his ambition on another political platform due to the unresolved crisis at the national level of the PDP.

Ajadi said the lingering internal crisis within the party could pose legal challenges to his aspiration in the long run.

In a resignation letter dated May 6, 2026, and addressed to the Oyo State Chairman of the PDP at the party’s Secretariat in Molete, Ibadan, Ajadi said his decision followed “extensive consultations and careful reflection” on his political future and ideological direction.

The letter, routed through the PDP Ward Chairman of Ward 8, Osengere in Egbeda Local Government Area of Oyo State, marks a significant political development within the party in the state.

“I am writing to officially notify you of my decision to resign from the membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately,” Ajadi stated in the letter.

The politician, who has remained active in political discourse and youth-oriented development initiatives across Oyo State, stressed that his decision was not driven by personal ambition but by the need to avoid possible legal disputes that could affect his gubernatorial aspiration.

“This decision comes after extensive consultations and careful reflection on my political direction, particularly in relation to the broader state and national vision of unity, progress, and sustainable leadership that I remain deeply committed to pursuing,” he said.

Ajadi, known for his grassroots political engagements and philanthropic activities across Oyo State, expressed gratitude to the PDP leadership at the national, state, and ward levels for the opportunities and support he enjoyed during his time in the party.

“I wish to express my profound appreciation to the national leadership of the PDP for the opportunity to pursue my political ambition under the party’s banner, as well as acknowledge the unwavering support, guidance, and cooperation I received from the state leadership and the ward chapter throughout my political journey within the party,” he added.

Describing politics as a vehicle for service rather than personal rivalry, Ajadi emphasised his continued commitment to democratic participation and nation-building.

“Politics, for me, has always been a calling to serve humanity, not a contest of egos,” he declared. “I remain grateful for the trust reposed in me and for the platform the PDP provided to engage constructively in nation-building and democratic participation.”

Political observers in Oyo State believe Ajadi’s resignation could trigger fresh political alignments ahead of future contests in the state, especially considering his influence among youths and grassroots supporters.

Although Ajadi did not disclose his next political destination in the letter, sources close to the politician hinted that consultations are ongoing with associates and stakeholders across different political platforms.

The development is expected to generate reactions within the Oyo State political landscape, particularly among PDP loyalists and opposition blocs monitoring emerging alliances ahead of future elections.

In a conciliatory tone, Ajadi praised members of the PDP for their resilience and patriotism while praying for the continued success of the party in strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

“I salute the courage, resilience, and patriotism of all PDP members and pray that the party continues to play its vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and fostering good governance,” he stated.

He further noted that he was leaving the party with “no bitterness or regret,” describing his experience within the PDP as “fulfilling and memorable.”

“As I take a new path in my political journey, I do so with no bitterness or regret, but with sincere gratitude to every member of the PDP family who contributed to making my experience both fulfilling and memorable,” Ajadi reiterated.

Global oil prices continued their downward slide on Thursday as growing optimism over possible diplomatic progress between the United States and Iran eased concerns over disruptions to oil supplies through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude, the international benchmark for oil prices, fell by 1.5 per cent to $99.8 per barrel after suffering an almost eight per cent decline in the previous trading session.

Similarly, West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the United States benchmark, dropped to $93.5 per barrel as markets reacted to signs that tensions in the Middle East could be softening.

The latest decline comes after a volatile week in global energy markets. Brent crude had surged to its highest level of the year on Monday amid fears that escalating hostilities involving Iran could threaten oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest energy transit routes.

However, investors appeared more confident on Thursday following indications that Washington and Tehran may be moving closer toward a deal that could reduce the risk of further disruptions in the region.

Despite the recent losses, crude prices remain significantly higher than levels recorded before the outbreak of hostilities linked to the US-Israeli attacks on Iran that began on February 28.

Analysts say uncertainty surrounding the conflict means oil prices are unlikely to return to earlier levels anytime soon.

Chief European Economist at Jefferies, Mohit Kumar, said even if a diplomatic agreement is reached in the coming days, energy markets would likely continue pricing in geopolitical risks.

“Even if we get a deal over the coming days, we do not see oil prices going back to pre-war levels,” Kumar said in a market note.

According to him, the investment bank expects Brent crude to trade around $80 per barrel within the next three to six months, a level still about 25 per cent above prices seen before the conflict began.

Economists warn that persistently elevated oil prices could continue to affect global economic growth and inflation, particularly for countries heavily dependent on imported fuel.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has publicly endorsed Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada as the next governor, ahead of the 2027 governorship elections in Nasarawa State, aligning himself with the current governor, Abdullahi Sule.

Shettima, speaking at the Nasarawa Investment Summit 2026 in Lafia, expressed strong support for Wadada, who currently represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District in the National Assembly. The Vice President stated that Wadada is the right candidate to continue the work of Governor Sule and take the state forward in the 2027 political transition.

Shettima said, “By the grace of God, seated in our midst here is the next governor of Nasarawa. Senator Wadada, you have your job cut out for you, and we wish you well.”

The Vice President emphasized that Wadada, with his experience as a technocrat and banking professional, was well-equipped to lead Nasarawa. He noted that Wadada’s background in the banking sector and his commitment to continuity in the state’s economic reforms made him the ideal successor to Sule.

Wadada’s endorsement comes amid the launch of the Lafia Declaration at the summit, which underscores a shared commitment by political parties, the legislature, judiciary, investors, and other stakeholders to continue Nasarawa’s reform agenda beyond the 2027 elections.

Shettima also assured the public that Nasarawa’s economic trajectory would remain stable, regardless of the outcome of the 2027 election, and that Wadada would ensure the continuation of the state’s investment drive.

Senator Wadada, who was present at the summit, has been widely recognized as Governor Sule’s preferred candidate for the upcoming governorship race.

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The candidate of African Democratic Congress, ADC in the 2023 Lagos governorship election, Funso Doherty has announced his defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC.

Doherty who had also indicated his intention to contest for the Lagos governorship in the 2027 election announced his defection in a statement on Thursday.

He attributed his decision to abandon ADC to division among the leaders of the party.

Doherty noted that with such division among its leaders, the hope that the ADC will be a platform that will unite the opposition is no longer realizable.

He said every member of the ADC must therefore decide whether to remain with the party or seek to realise their political aspirations on another platform.

“After due consultation, careful deliberation and prayerful reflection, I have joined the NDC. I am convinced that this is the path that will enable us to deliver the benefits of good governance to those to whom they are due every citizen, without exception,” Doherty said.

However, this is the second time that the governorship candidate will be abandoning the ADC. He had dumped the party for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, after his woeful performance in the 2023 governorship election.

But he announced his return to the ADC after some opposition leaders adopted the party as their platform for contesting against the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC in the 2027 general election.

His statement announcing that he has also abandoned ADC for NDC reads: “Most of us are aware of developments concerning the ADC that have collectively resulted in a division of the coalition with some leaders moving to the NDC and some remaining in the ADC.

“We had hoped that ADC would be the vehicle that would unite the opposition. That is now clearly no longer the case. In these circumstances therefore, we must each individually make a decision as to whether to remain with the ADC or move to the NDC.

“After due consultation, careful deliberation and prayerful reflection, I have joined the NDC. I am convinced that this is the path that will enable us to deliver the benefits of good governance to those to whom they are due every citizen, without exception.

“The battle ahead remains formidable, but I invite you to join us on this exciting, though sometimes turbulent, journey to a brighter future that has been long- promised and that has so far proven elusive, but that is, by the Grace of God, now imminent.”

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reportedly selected former Commissioner for Finance, Abimbola Adekambi, as his preferred candidate to succeed him in the 2027 governorship election.

The development was revealed by the spokesperson of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in the state, Michael Ogunshina, who said Adekambi had earned the confidence and support of the governor after years of working closely with the administration.

Adekambi is a well-known technocrat with experience in finance, governance, and public administration. Before now, he served as Commissioner for Finance during the administration of late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

He also held the position of Deputy Chief of Staff in the Oyo State Government.

Currently, he serves as chairman of the renovation committee for the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, a major project being supervised by the Makinde administration.

Adekambi officially joined the PDP shortly after Governor Makinde secured victory for a second term during the 2023 general election. Since then, he has remained active within the party and government circles.

The report has already generated strong reactions and discussions among political stakeholders across Oyo State, especially within the PDP and opposition parties preparing ahead of the 2027 elections.

Sources said the decision followed a series of consultations involving influential party leaders, political allies, and major stakeholders in the state’s political structure.

Although Governor Makinde has not personally made a public declaration, Ogunshina confirmed that the decision has already been communicated internally within party ranks.

“Yes, it is confirmed, the governor has announced him,” Ogunshina stated.

Political observers believe the move could reshape political alliances and trigger fresh calculations among aspirants interested in contesting the governorship seat.

Analysts also noted that Adekambi’s background in finance and governance may strengthen his acceptability among party members and technocrats, while his previous service under the Ajimobi administration could attract support beyond the PDP.

With preparations for the 2027 elections gradually taking shape, the reported endorsement is expected to increase political activities and succession debates within Oyo State in the coming months.

Deferred maintenance across Nigeria’s residential and commercial buildings is costing property owners billions of naira annually, according to Alpha Mead Group, which warned that the common habit of postponing repairs is quietly eroding asset value and increasing long-term costs.

In a position paper released by the firm, experts highlighted how routine issues–often dismissed with the phrase “let’s manage it for now”–are escalating into major financial and structural problems across the country’s real estate sector.

“The leaking pipe is ignored, the generator servicing is postponed, and minor structural cracks are overlooked. While these decisions appear harmless initially, they often result in significantly higher repair costs over time,” the firm stated.

The company explained that deferred maintenance refers to delaying necessary repairs or routine servicing of critical building systems, including electrical installations, plumbing, elevators, air-conditioning units, roofing, and generators.

According to Alpha Mead, the effects are rarely immediate but build gradually, making them harder to detect until substantial damage has occurred.

“A minor roof leak that may cost about 50,000 to fix today can evolve into a multi-million-naira repair involving electrical rewiring, structural reinforcement, and interior restoration if ignored,” the firm noted.

Industry professionals describe this pattern as a “domino effect,” where a single neglected issue triggers multiple failures across interconnected building systems.

Why do property owners delay maintenance

The report identified financial pressure as a key driver of deferred maintenance in Nigeria, noting that many property owners prioritise short-term cost savings over long-term asset preservation.

It also cited widespread misconceptions about maintenance, with many landlords and organisations viewing it as an avoidable expense rather than a strategic investment.

“Buildings function like machines. Even when systems appear operational, they may be running inefficiently and deteriorating internally,” the firm explained.

Additionally, the absence of structured facility management systems–such as routine inspections and maintenance schedules–means repairs are often only carried out after total system failure.

Impact on energy costs and tenants

Alpha Mead further warned that poorly maintained facilities significantly increase energy consumption. Air-conditioning systems with clogged filters and worn components, for instance, consume more electricity, while unserviced generators burn more fuel and break down more frequently.

“With rising diesel prices and unstable power supply, inefficient systems place a heavy financial burden on property owners and businesses,” the report stated.

The firm added that maintenance issues also affect tenant satisfaction. Frequent elevator breakdowns, faulty electrical systems, leaking ceilings, and unreliable cooling systems can drive tenants away.

“In commercial real estate, tenant satisfaction directly impacts occupancy rates and rental income. Poor maintenance can lead to vacancies and reduced revenue,” it said.

Safety risks and structural concerns

Beyond financial implications, deferred maintenance poses significant safety risks. The firm warned that neglected electrical systems could lead to fires, while structural cracks and faulty lifts could endanger occupants.

It also noted that poorly maintained drainage systems increase the risk of flooding, particularly in urban areas.

“Buildings often receive substantial investment during construction but are neglected afterward. However, long-term safety depends on consistent maintenance,” the statement added.

Economic implications for Nigeria’s real estate sector

The firm cautioned that the effects of deferred maintenance extend beyond individual buildings, potentially impacting broader economic activity.

Deteriorating commercial properties can reduce surrounding property values and discourage investment, as both local and international investors assess the sustainability of infrastructure before committing capital.

“A culture of poor maintenance can weaken confidence in Nigeria’s real estate market,” the firm said.

Experts advocate preventive maintenance

To address the challenge, Alpha Mead recommended a shift toward preventive maintenance, which involves regular inspections, scheduled servicing, and early intervention.

The firm noted that preventive strategies not only reduce long-term repair costs but also improve energy efficiency, extend the lifespan of assets, and enhance occupant safety and comfort.

“Global facility management data shows that every naira spent on preventive maintenance can save up to four or five naira in future repair costs,” it stated.

Protecting Nigeria’s built environment

As Nigeria continues to witness rapid real estate development, the firm stressed the need for stronger maintenance culture and professional facility management practices.

“Constructing modern buildings is only half the task. Preserving their value requires consistent and strategic maintenance,” it said.

Alpha Mead concluded that property owners, developers, and facility managers must rethink their approach, warning that deferred maintenance is not a cost-saving strategy but a financial risk.

“Maintenance is not a burden; it is protection for investment. The most expensive repairs are often those that were delayed for too long,” the firm added.