Building for People, Planet & Performance
DGNB Nigeria Certification
The DGNB System is one of the most advanced sustainability certification systems in the world – developed by the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) and now tailored for Nigeria by the Green Building Council Nigeria (GBCN).
DGNB Nigeria applies a holistic, performance-based approach to sustainability—evaluating buildings across their full life cycle from design to deconstruction. As a localized system, it responds directly to Nigeria’s construction landscape, climate, regulations, and materials.
DGNB Nigeria is a pioneering initiative by Green Building Council Nigeria (GBCN) to promote sustainable, energy-efficient, and high-performance buildings. As an official partner of DGNB Germany, we provide a globally recognized, locally adapted certification system that advances climate resilience and quality in the built environment.
Why It Matters
The built environment plays a critical role in Nigeria’s climate action efforts. DGNB Nigeria ensures that developers, architects, and investors integrate sustainability, efficiency, and resilience into every project.
Lower environmental impact
Healthier, safer buildings
Higher economic value and cost savings
Stronger climate resilience
Why Choose DGNB Nigeria?
Unlike other certification systems, DGNB Nigeria is uniquely adapted to Nigeria’s context
Climate-specific criteria
Reflects Nigeria’s heat, humidity, and energy realities
Locally available materials
Encourages sustainable sourcing and innovation
Regulatory alignment
Supports Nigeria’s building codes and policy goals
Flexible application
Suitable for commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects
And like DGNB Germany, it is:
Performance-Oriented
Based on how your building actually performs
Life-Cycle Based
From material sourcing to operation and end of life
Globally Benchmarked
International quality, tailored to local needs
Holistic
Balancing ecological, economic, social, technical, process, and site factors
What Types of Projects Can Be Certified?
DGNB Nigeria currently supports New Construction certification. Other systems (for buildings in use, renovations, interiors, and districts) will be introduced in future phases.
- Residential Buildings (e.g., homes, apartments)
- Office Buildings
- Retail & Wholesale Buildings
- Hotels
- Healthcare Facilities (e.g., hospitals, clinics)
- Educational Buildings (e.g., schools, training centers, universities)
- Mixed-Use Developments
- Transport Facilities (e.g., stations, terminals)
- Industrial Buildings
Not sure if your project qualifies? Contact us for a pre-evaluation
Simple. Seamless. Fast.
DGNB Certification in 4 Steps
DGNB Nigeria streamlines your journey from concept to certification in just four core steps, working with local experts and DGNB-trained auditors at every stage.
Register Your Project with GBCN
Begin the process by registering your project for certification with GBCN.
Compile & Submit Your Documentation
Gather and submit the necessary technical and sustainability documentation with support from trained professionals.
Conformity Check by GBCN
Our team reviews your submission to confirm it meets DGNB Nigeria’s requirements.
Get Certified
Once verified, your project receives its DGNB certification — a recognized mark of quality and sustainability.
For any inquiries or support during your application, contact us at edge@gbcn.org.ng
DGNB Nigeria Certification Levels
Score greater than or equals to 50%. This means you have solid sustainability, with room to grow.
Score greater than or equals to 65%. This means you have a strong performance meeting high standards
Score greater than or equals to 80%. This means you have outstanding sustainability across all categories
DGNB Nigeria Certification Fees
| Gross Internal Area (GIA) | GBCN Member | Non-Member |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 1,500 m² | $1,480 | $1,850 |
| Less than 5,000 m² | $2,200 | $2,750 |
| Less than 10,000 m² | $3,000 | $3,750 |
| Less than 20,000 m² | $4,800 | $6,875 |
| More than 20,000 m² | $8,500 | $10,625 |
Note: Pricing is based on Gross Internal Area (GIA) — the usable internal space excluding parking and circulation.
Need help calculating GIA for your project? Contact us at dgnb@gbcn.org.ng for assistance.
Heads Up: Additional Costs May Apply
While DGNB Nigeria certification fees cover registration and review, projects will typically need technical studies or reports to meet specific criteria — such as:
• Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
• Life Cycle Costing (LCC)
• Indoor Air Quality or Acoustic Studies
• Thermal or Lighting Simulation
These services are not included in the standard fee and may require additional professional input.
Need help? GBCN can connect you with qualified DGNB consultants and technical experts.
Reach out to dgnb@gbcn.org.ng to request referrals or guidance.
Benefits of DGNB Nigeria Certification
Why Get DGNB Certified?
Lower Operating Costs
Optimize energy, water, and materials use
Increased Asset Value
Proven market advantage
Healthier Buildings
Enhanced indoor quality for occupants
Green Finance Opportunities
Align with ESG standards
Policy Alignment
Supports Nigeria’s climate and development goals
Join developers, architects, engineers, and regulators making a difference in Nigeria’s built environment.
Building for People, Planet & Performance
Connect with DGNB Professionals
GBCN is building a local network of trained DGNB professionals
DGNB Consultants
Guide your project through certification
DGNB Auditors
Independently verify and score your project
Resources & Tools
While we expand our library, here’s what’s available now:
- DGNB Nigeria Technical Manual (PDF)
- Expression of Interest for International DGNB Consultant Training
- DGNB Academy – International Platform for Learning
Featured Projects (Coming Soon)
Green Building Council Nigeria is currently working with local developers and stakeholders to certify the first DGNB projects in Nigeria.
Want to feature your project here?
FAQS
General Information
Are there trained DGNB Auditors and Consultants in Nigeria?
DGNB Nigeria is a localized version of the DGNB Certification System, developed by the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) and adapted by the Green Building Council Nigeria (GBCN). It offers a framework for assessing and certifying sustainable buildings using internationally recognized standards tailored to Nigeria’s building context, climate priorities, and development goals.
Why should I pursue DGNB Certification for my project in Nigeria?
Achieving DGNB Certification:
- Demonstrates environmental and social responsibility
- Reduces long-term operational and utility costs
- Enhances indoor environmental quality
- Increases property value and marketability
- Supports access to green financing and ESG reporting
- Aligns with Nigeria’s climate action and sustainable development goals
It positions your project as a forward-thinking, high-performance development that benefits people, planet, and profitability.
What types of projects can currently be certified under DGNB Nigeria?
At this time, only New Construction projects are eligible for DGNB Nigeria certification. This includes:
- 🏘 Residential buildings
- 🏢 Office and commercial buildings
- 🏗️ Mixed-use developments
- 🏥 Healthcare facilities
- 🎓 Educational institutions
- 🏬 Retail and hospitality projects
- 🏭 Industrial and warehouse buildings
- 🚉 Transport terminals and public facilities
⚠️ Other schemes (e.g., Buildings in Use, Renovations, Districts) will be introduced in later phases.
How do I register my project for DGNB Certification?
To begin the certification process:
- Complete the Project Registration Form via our website
- Submit the required documentation
- Engage a DGNB Consultant to support your project
- Begin pre-evaluation and conformity review with GBCN
📌 Fill our form here or email dgnb@gbcn.org.ng to get started.
What are the DGNB Nigeria certification levels?
Each level reflects how well your project meets DGNB’s sustainability benchmarks. Bronze certification is not currently available under DGNB Nigeria.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
How long does the certification process take?
Timelines vary depending on project size and readiness. On average, certification takes 4–8 months from registration to certificate. Starting early and working with DGNB-trained professionals helps streamline the process.
How much does DGNB Certification cost?
Costs depend primarily on your project’s size (measured in Gross Internal Area). Fees typically include:
- Registration with GBCN
- Technical review and auditing
- Certification issuance
📌 Discounts are available during the pilot phase.
Are there trained DGNB Auditors and Consultants in Nigeria?
Yes. GBCN has trained a pool of DGNB Consultants and DGNB Auditors based in Nigeria. These professionals guide your project through the certification process and ensure compliance with the technical and performance criteria.
What does DGNB evaluate?
Projects are assessed across six key qualities:
- 🌱 Ecological Quality – Environmental impact, energy use, water, materials
- 💰 Economic Quality – Life-cycle costing, long-term viability
- 🧘 Socio-cultural & Functional Quality – Comfort, health, and user needs
- ⚙️ Technical Quality – Performance, durability, and safety
- 🧩 Process Quality – Project planning and management effectiveness
- 📍 Site Quality – Context, infrastructure, and mobility access
How long is a DGNB Nigeria certificate valid?
For new construction projects, certification remains valid indefinitely as long as no major changes are made to the building. Re-certification is not currently required but may be introduced in the future.
How does DGNB compare to LEED, BREEAM, and EDGE?
Is DGNB Certification recognized internationally?
Yes. DGNB is one of Europe’s leading sustainability certification systems and is recognized across multiple continents. Projects certified under DGNB Nigeria reflect international standards adapted for local realities — which can enhance investor appeal, ESG reporting, and export-oriented development.
Can I use local construction materials and techniques in a DGNB-certified project?
Absolutely. DGNB Nigeria encourages local sourcing and innovation. Projects gain extra value by:
- Using regionally available, low-impact materials
- Reducing emissions from material transport
- Embracing circular economy approaches
GBCN can also help connect you with verified green building product suppliers.
Are there additional costs beyond the certification fee?
Yes. While DGNB Nigeria’s certification fees cover project registration and certification review, projects may also incur additional costs related to technical studies and documentation required for specific sustainability criteria (such as Life Cycle Assessment, Life Cycle Costing, Indoor Air Quality, Acoustic Comfort, and more).
These studies often require expert inputs from qualified professionals and may involve the use of simulation tools, software, or third-party reports.
Need help?
GBCN can connect you with trusted DGNB-trained consultants and experts who specialize in:
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
- Life Cycle Costing (LCC)
- Indoor Environmental Quality assessments
- Acoustic, lighting, and thermal modeling
- Sustainable materials and circular economy strategies
Contact us at dgnb@gbcn.org.ng if you’d like to request support or be referred to a certified expert.