Nigeria, other African countries to drive global sustainable construction

Nigeria is emerging as a key focus for the global construction industry as international manufacturers, investors and engineering firms increasingly turn to Africa growth opportunities amid rising demand for sustainable infrastructure.

This growing interest will be on display at Intermat 2027, one of the world’s largest construction and public works exhibitions, scheduled to hold in Paris from April 21 to 24, 2027. Organisers have announced that Africa, particularly Nigeria, will feature prominently at the event, including an African Summit designed to connect policymakers, investors and industry leaders.

For Nigeria, which faces a significant infrastructure deficit across transport, housing, energy and industrial development, the event presents an opportunity to access global innovations and investment partnerships.

According to Akin Akinbola, managing director of Promosalons Nigeria and Cameroon, several Nigerian industry bodies are already mobilising participation.

“The strong Nigerian presence reflects the country’s status as Africa’s largest economy and one of its fastest-growing construction markets,” Akinbola said.

A major theme of Intermat 2027 will be sustainability, with discussions centred on balancing environmental goals with economic realities.

“The question is no longer whether the industry wants sustainability, but how to make it economically viable,” said Guillaume Schaeffer, director of Intermat. He noted that the exhibition will provide a platform for stakeholders to share experiences and identify practical business models for large-scale implementation.

The event will showcase emerging technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered machinery, drones, Building Information Modelling (BIM), Internet of Things applications and 3D printing.

Industry leaders say access to modern equipment remains critical. Philippe Cohet, chairman of DLR, noted that nearly 80 percent of construction equipment in Europe is now leased, allowing businesses to adopt advanced technology without high upfront costs.

By placing Nigeria and Africa at the centre of its 2027 agenda, Intermat is signalling the continent’s growing importance not only as a destination for infrastructure investment but also as a partner in shaping the future of sustainable construction.