Strengthening Property Management and Maintenance in Nigeria: A Call for Professionalism and Policy Reform

ESV Uche, Timothy Ahamefula, ANIVS

Property management and maintenance are critical pillars of real estate sustainability and value retention. In Nigeria, however, these functions are often undervalued or mismanaged, leading to rapid deterioration of assets, economic losses, and reduced quality of life for occupants. With the country witnessing a steady rise in real estate investments, both residential and commercial, the importance of effective property management can no longer be overlooked.

At its core, property management involves overseeing the operations, control, and oversight of real estate assets. It encompasses tenant relations, rent collection, budgeting, facility upkeep, and legal compliance. Maintenance, on the other hand, refers specifically to the physical care and repair of property—ensuring buildings are safe, functional, and aesthetically appealing. When either aspect is neglected, the consequences ripple through the entire real estate value chain.
One of the glaring challenges in Nigeria’s property sector is the reactive rather than preventive approach to maintenance. Many building owners delay repairs until serious damage has occurred. This “fire brigade” method is not only costly but also dangerous, as it often leads to structural failures or unsafe living environments. From leaking roofs and broken plumbing to malfunctioning electrical systems and deteriorated finishes, poorly maintained buildings are a common sight across urban centers.

The problem is further compounded by the lack of professional property managers in many private and public sector developments. Untrained caretakers, friends, or relatives are often assigned roles that require technical knowledge and managerial competence. The result is ineffective tenant management, rent disputes, poor record keeping, and declining property value. The lack of standard operating procedures and key performance indicators makes it difficult to assess management efficiency or enforce accountability.

Moreover, there is a gap in regulatory enforcement. While professional bodies such as the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) and the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON) have set guidelines for practice, these standards are not consistently applied, especially in informal housing sectors. Government agencies also face logistical and institutional weaknesses in enforcing building codes and property maintenance regulations.
The implication is significant. Without a robust property management framework, even the best-designed buildings succumb to rapid wear and tear. Investors suffer from reduced returns, tenants endure substandard conditions, and urban environments become blighted. For a nation with a housing deficit estimated at over 17 million units, it is imperative that we do not just build—but manage and maintain sustainably.
To address these challenges, a multi-pronged approach is necessary:

1. Professionalization of the Sector: Stakeholders must insist on engaging certified property managers and facility maintenance experts. Professional bodies should increase outreach and training programs, while real estate developers should incorporate property management considerations from the design stage.
2. Legislative Backing: Stronger laws and by-laws on property maintenance are needed at both state and federal levels. These laws should mandate periodic inspections, enforce minimum standards, and impose penalties for negligence.
3. Preventive Maintenance Culture: A shift from reactive to preventive maintenance must be championed. Property owners should develop long-term maintenance plans and budget for routine servicing. This not only prolongs the life of assets but also reduces the overall cost of repairs.
4. Technology Integration: Digital property management platforms can streamline rent collection, maintenance tracking, and tenant communication. These tools bring transparency and efficiency to the process and are particularly useful for managing large portfolios.
5. Public Awareness: Homeowners, tenants, and real estate investors need to be educated on the value of proper property management. Campaigns, seminars, and media features can highlight success stories and encourage adoption of best practices.
   As Nigeria urbanizes rapidly and real estate continues to attract both local and foreign capital, it is crucial that we anchor this growth on sound property management principles. The future of Nigerian cities and the value of investments depend not just on the number of buildings we erect, but on how well we manage and maintain them.
   ESV Uche, Timothy Ahamefula, is an Abuja-based Estate Surveyor and Valuer.