The Lekki Free Trade Zone is witnessing a steady expansion of its office market, signalling a gradual transformation from an industrial-focused corridor into a broader commercial and business hub.

 

According to a recent report by Estate Intel titled The Future of Workspaces in Lekki Free Trade Zone, completed office stock within the corridor has reached 23,182 square metres, while an additional 45,100 square metres of office space is currently under development.

 

The report highlights a growing demand for office facilities driven by companies operating within the zone, particularly manufacturers, logistics operators and service providers seeking to locate administrative and support functions closer to production and distribution activities.

Spanning parts of Ibeju-Lekki and Epe, the Lekki Free Trade Zone has long been recognised as one of Lagos’ key industrial and logistics centres. However, increasing business activity and investment in the area are now encouraging the development of office spaces that support a wider range of commercial operations.

Estate Intel noted that companies within the zone are increasingly prioritising proximity and operational efficiency rather than maintaining standalone headquarters in other parts of Lagos. This trend is contributing to the growth of office developments designed to serve businesses operating directly within the corridor.

 

The report added that as more companies establish operations in the area, demand for professional support services is expected to rise. This could create opportunities for legal firms, consulting companies, financial service providers and other business support organisations looking to serve the growing industrial ecosystem.

Several projects illustrate the emerging office market within the corridor.

One of the most notable completed developments is Irele Tower, located within the Lagos Free Zone. Developed by Tolaram Group, the Grade B+ mixed-use facility provides approximately 8,500 square metres of office and retail space. The development includes retail outlets, security infrastructure, access control systems and a rooftop cafeteria.

 

In Alaro City, developers are planning Lekton Towers, a mixed-use project expected to provide approximately 5,600 square metres of leasable office, residential and retail space.

The largest office project currently in the pipeline is Shamballa, also located in Alaro City. The proposed Grade A+ development is expected to deliver approximately 39,500 square metres of office space and will feature conference facilities, retail areas, parking infrastructure and sustainability-focused features, including plans for LEED Platinum certification and net-zero operations.

 

The commercial footprint of the corridor was further expanded in late 2025 when the Lekki Free Zone Development Company completed a 10,013-square-metre office and retail project.

The growth in office development aligns with broader expansion within Lagos’ commercial real estate market. Industry projections indicate that Lagos could add nearly 95,000 square metres of prime office space between 2025 and 2027 through several major developments across Ikoyi, Victoria Island and Ikeja.

 

Despite increasing adoption of hybrid work arrangements, demand for premium office space in Lagos remains relatively strong. Recent market data shows that occupancy rates in key commercial districts have improved, with businesses continuing to prioritise quality workspaces that support operational efficiency and collaboration.

 

For MSMEs, the expansion of office infrastructure within the Lekki Free Trade Zone could create new opportunities beyond manufacturing and logistics. As more businesses establish operations in the corridor, demand is likely to increase for professional services, facility management, technology solutions, transportation, catering, maintenance services and other support businesses that form part of a growing commercial ecosystem.

 

The expanding office market also reflects growing investor confidence in the long-term economic potential of the Lekki corridor, particularly as major infrastructure projects, industrial investments and port-related activities continue to reshape the area into one of Nigeria’s most significant business destinations.