Industry experts, policy makers and investors in Nigeria’s built environment have called for comprehensive policy reforms to accelerate the adoption of technology in the country’s construction and infrastructure sectors.
The call comes ahead of West Africa’s largest construction exhibition, BUILDMACEX 2026, which is scheduled to take place in Lagos from April 22 to 24, 2026.
Organized by Atlantic Exhibitions Nigeria Limited, the three-day event will highlight the role of digital innovation, sustainable design and policy coherence in modernizing Nigeria’s infrastructure and real estate landscape.
Speaking at a media briefing, Event Manager of the Atlantic Exhibition, Vivian Cesi Godonuwe, said the exhibition has moved beyond a trade fair to become a platform for conversations on how technology and innovation can redefine structural design and the built environment across West Africa.
Godonuwe said it has become important to adopt technology to bridge the infrastructure gap and increase efficiency in project delivery, especially as Nigeria faces increasing urbanization and increasing demand for affordable housing.
He said the sector should align with global trends by investing in digital design systems, automation and smart manufacturing technologies.
He said digital construction will not only reduce project costs and timelines but also increase transparency and accountability, two key factors that have hindered infrastructure progress in many developing economies.
He revealed that the 2026 edition will prioritize talks on green building standards, renewable energy integration and digital construction tools along with live demonstrations and technical masterclasses showcasing practical applications of emerging technologies.
According to him, the exhibition will also provide valuable insights into the policy trends, sustainability practices and urban development strategies shaping the future of infrastructure, as well as serve as a marketplace for productivity-enhancing partnerships and solutions.
Godonuwe said: “It has become a platform for dialogue on how technology and innovation can redefine structural design and the built environment in West Africa,” he said.
“The exhibition will also provide valuable insights into the policy trends, sustainability practices and urban development strategies that are influencing the future of infrastructure.
“Beyond learning, it will provide a platform to create strategic partnerships that can drive large-scale projects across Africa, while also serving as a marketplace for sourcing solutions that enhance productivity.”