The 10 Tallest Buildings in Nigeria: Is Eko Atlantic the New Record Holder? (2026 Guide)
Last Updated: January 3, 2026
For decades, the NECOM House in Lagos held the title of the tallest building in Nigeria. However, with the rise of Eko Atlantic City, a new era of "supertall" skyscrapers is challenging the old guard. As of 2026, while the 160-meter NECOM House remains the tallest completed structure, the groundbreaking of FirstBank’s 40-storey headquarters is set to redefine the Nigerian skyline. In this guide, we rank the top 10 tallest buildings and explore how Eko Atlantic is becoming the new financial heart of West Africa.
| Rank | Building Name | City | Height (m) | Floors | Year Completed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NECOM House | Lagos | 160m | 32 | 1979 |
| 2 | Champagne Pearl Tower | Eko Atlantic | 134m | 30 | 2017 |
| 3 | Union Bank Building | Lagos | 124m | 28 | 1991 |
| 4 | WTC Tower 2 | Abuja | 120m | 25 | 2016 |
| 5 | Eko Tower II | Lagos | 118m | 27 | 2016 |
| 6 | Black Pearl Tower | Eko Atlantic | 112m | 25 | 2017 |
| 7 | WTC Tower 1 | Abuja | 110m | 24 | 2016 |
| 8 | 4 Bourdillon | Lagos | 103m | 25 | 2020 |
| 9 | Dakkada Tower | Uyo | 108m | 21 | 2020 |
| 10 | Cocoa House | Ibadan | 105m | 26 | 1965 |
The New King: FirstBank’s 40-Storey Headquarter
As of early 2026, the building that everyone is watching is the FirstBank Headquarters in Eko Atlantic. While NECOM House currently holds the crown, this project is designed to shatter that record.
Project Status Update (2026):
Planned Height: 252 meters (827 ft) — nearly 100 meters taller than NECOM House!
Storeys: 40+ Floors (Some reports suggest up to 43).
Sustainability: It is a Green-Certified building featuring solar integration and smart climate control.
Location: Anchoring the new Financial District in Eko Atlantic City.
When completed (projected for late 2027/2028), this will officially become the tallest building in Nigeria and one of the most technologically advanced commercial office buildings in Africa.
Eko Atlantic City: The New Home of Skyscrapers
If you are searching for Eko Atlantic City updates, it is no longer just a "vision." It is a fully functional city that has become the most expensive real estate in Nigeria.
Why Eko Atlantic is Dominating the Skyline:
Independent Infrastructure: The city has its own independent power, water, and fiber-optic internet, making it a "Safe Haven" for corporations like FirstBank and the U.S. Consulate.
The Great Wall of Lagos: This 8.5km sea wall protects the city from ocean surges, allowing for high-density, high-rise construction on reclaimed land.
Real Estate Value: Land in Eko Atlantic is valued from $1,150 per sqm, with premium plots for commercial towers seeing the highest appreciation in West Africa.
The Evolution of Nigeria’s Skyline: From Cocoa House to Eko Atlantic
To understand where Nigerian architecture is going, we must look at how far it has come. The journey of the "tallest building in Nigeria" reflects the nation's economic shifts—from agriculture to global finance.
1965: The Dawn of Skyscrapers (Cocoa House, Ibadan)
Long before Lagos became a forest of glass towers, Ibadan held the crown.
The Landmark: Cocoa House (originally Ile Awon Agbe).
The History: Standing at 105 meters, it was the first skyscraper in West Africa. It was built entirely from the proceeds of cocoa and rubber exports, symbolizing the agricultural wealth of the old Western Region.
1979: The Oil Boom Icon (NECOM House, Lagos)
As the economy shifted toward oil and telecommunications, the focus moved to the Lagos Marina.
The Landmark: NECOM House (formerly NITEL Tower).
The History: Completed in 1979, its 160-meter height has remained unbeaten for over 46 years. Its spire acts as a lighthouse beacon for ships entering the Lagos Harbour.
2026 and Beyond: The Eko Atlantic Era
Today, we see a shift toward "Lifestyle & Eco-Luxury" towers. Eko Atlantic City is the epicenter, with projects like the Champagne Pearl and the upcoming FirstBank HQ focusing on glass facades, green energy, and smart technology.
Abuja vs. Lagos: The Battle for the Sky
While Lagos holds the majority of the top 10 spots, Abuja is rising. The World Trade Centre (WTC) towers in the Central Business District represent the North's ambition. However, due to the high density of international corporate headquarters, Lagos remains the undisputed king of Nigerian skyscrapers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the current tallest building in Nigeria? A: As of January 2026, NECOM House in Lagos remains the tallest completed building at 160 meters.
Q: How many floors is the FirstBank headquarters in Eko Atlantic? A: The building is designed with 40 to 43 floors and is set to be 252 meters tall upon completion.
Q: Is Eko Atlantic the new financial hub of Lagos? A: Yes. Major institutions like FirstBank and the U.S. Consulate are moving their main operations to Eko Atlantic’s Financial District.
