Expectations as NAR names Tinubu International Realtor of the Year

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) USA has named Nigerian real estate professional, Adeniyi Tinubu, as its International Realtor Member of the Year, raising expectations of a better future for the national and continental real estate market.

This honour, one of the most prestigious within the global real estate community, marks the first time in history that a Nigerian and one of the very few Africans has received the award.

For Tinubu, this is a great moment he hopes will open more doors for international partnerships and strengthen Africa’s voice in shaping the future of global real estate.

“It is a profound moment for Nigeria and the African continent. The honour demonstrates that African professionals can compete at the highest levels of global practice when given equal access and visibility.

This award is bigger than me; it is a tribute to Nigerian realtors working tirelessly to raise standards, deepen professionalism, and bring integrity and innovation into our market,” he noted.

Tinubu added that the recognition should inspire deeper collaboration between African real estate practitioners and global institutions, stressing that Africa’s property markets hold enormous potential for transformation, investment, and sustainable growth.

For decades, the NAR has remained the world’s largest and most influential real estate association, bringing together professionals from more than 100 countries and shaping policy, training, and ethical standards across borders.

To be singled out by such a global institution is no small feat. Tinubu’s recognition is therefore more than an individual accomplishment — it is a powerful symbol of Africa’s rising footprint in the international property market.

Tinubu’s honour comes at a time when Nigeria’s real estate sector is undergoing structural evolution, with increased emphasis on professionalism, regulation, data integrity and global best practices. His recognition serves as an affirmation of Nigeria’s growing talent pool and its ability to compete favourably on the world stage.

Industry practitioners see this milestone as a validation of years of advocacy for higher ethical standards in property transactions and improved transparency within the sector.

Tinubu’s achievement also reflects the expanding participation of Nigerian real estate firms and professionals in global knowledge networks, training programmes, and international collaborations. Many believe it will inspire emerging practitioners and strengthen Nigeria’s visibility in global real estate discussions.

Beyond national pride, the award carries significant continental implications. Africa’s real estate markets have often been overlooked in global conversations despite rapid urbanisation, rising housing demand and increasing investment opportunities across major cities.

Tinubu’s recognition amplifies Africa’s voice at a time when representation in global real estate governance and sustainable development advocacy is needed.

Tinubu’s award is more than an individual accolade; it represents a collective victory for Nigeria and Africa’s growing real estate community. It reinforces the continent’s credibility in global markets, showcases the professional calibre emerging from Africa, and signals a new era of recognition for African practitioners.

Experts argued that celebrating African professionals on international platforms helps challenge stereotypes, attract investments, and elevate conversations around land reform, housing affordability, market transparency, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

With Nigeria positioned as one of Africa’s most dynamic property markets, this recognition signals that African expertise is not only expanding but gaining global credibility.