On Thursday, 12th February 2026, members of the Stanford Seed Network Nigeria had the privilege of visiting Alárò City, a world-class integrated city redefining business, industry, and urban living in Nigeria. Hosted by Brian Hammond, Head of Business Development at Alárò City and Ex-Officio Member of the Stanford Seed Network Nigeria, members were treated to a firsthand experience of the city’s visionary infrastructure, investment opportunities, and sustainable living spaces.

A City Designed for the Future

Alárò City spans almost three times the size of Victoria Island, and its masterplan was designed by world-renowned urban planners Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. The city features a 2.5 km, 8-lane, 60-meter-wide main boulevard, linking residential, commercial, and industrial zones while supporting walkability and seamless transport within the city.

Members learned that the city is powered by its own independent power plant, licensed to generate 10MW and scalable to 120MW, ensuring reliable electricity for residents and businesses. Its water treatment plant meets WHO & SON standards, providing clean water 24/7, and a licensed security company ensures safety alongside Lagos State security measures.

Strategic Location & Connectivity

Alárò City’s location is a key advantage for business and logistics:

• 30 minutes to Lekki Deep Sea Port, Nigeria’s first port with ship-to-shore cranes capable of lifting up to 85 tons, and a turning circle for vessels up to 20,000 TEU.

• Green Corridor access as a Free Zone enterprise allows goods to reach the city within 24 hours without consignment checks.

• Ongoing and planned road projects like the Lekki-Epe Expressway renovation, Lagos-Calabar Expressway, Ijebu-Ode Expressway, and 7th Axial Road drastically reduce travel times and facilitate cargo evacuation.

• Planned projects include the Green Light Rail (71 km route to Marina) and Lekki International Airport, further strengthening Alárò City’s connectivity.

Residential & Lifestyle Amenities

The city has attracted over 700 residential investors and hosts more than 100 companies, employing over 1,600 people. Key residential developments include Universal One, a 576-unit apartment complex offering furnished and unfurnished apartments with rental income potential from $4,000–$6,000 per year for 2-bedroom units.

Residents will enjoy a high-quality lifestyle with upcoming leisure centers featuring:

• Swimming pool

• Sports center

• Basketball and football courts

• Paddle court

• Shopping plaza and bar

• Recreational spaces and kids playground

Education is also a cornerstone, with Wellington College International Lagos opening in 2027 to provide a holistic academic experience for children aged 2–18.

Insights for Members

During the visit, members had the chance to:

• Explore Alárò City’s residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

• Gain firsthand understanding of infrastructure, investment, and planning strategies.

• Connect with the city’s leadership and discuss potential partnership and business opportunities.

• Experience the city’s cohesive ecosystem that blends work, living, and leisure for residents and businesses alike.

A Memorable Members-Only Experience

The company visit offered Stanford Seed Network Nigeria members a rare opportunity to witness how visionary urban planning can transform communities, drive economic growth, and create a city built for the future.

From strategic location advantages to residential amenities and robust infrastructure, Alárò City demonstrates the kind of integrated development that is shaping Nigeria’s urban landscape.