By Daniel Okonkwo
Nigeria’s housing sector has become a pressing issue for millions of citizens, especially as rising rent prices and the greed of unregulated real estate agents put pressure on the already struggling economy. Across the country, from Abuja to Lagos, many Nigerians are feeling the weight of exorbitant rent fees, with agents contributing significantly to this burden. Despite the growing concern over the cost of housing, the real estate market is still largely unregulated, leaving tenants and potential homeowners at the mercy of agents who often engage in exploitative practices.
A real estate agent, or house agent, typically serves as a facilitator between tenants, property owners, and buyers. They are meant to simplify the property search process, negotiate fair terms, and offer valuable advice. However, in Nigeria, the situation has become increasingly problematic. Unlike in more regulated markets, where real estate agents are required to have official identification and a clear framework of conduct, Nigeria’s housing market is flooded with agents who operate with little to no oversight. This lack of regulation has led to a rampant increase in the exploitation of tenants and buyers alike.
Many agents charge excessive fees for their services, with some demanding as much as 25% of the rent for simply facilitating the transaction. Even more concerning is the practice of agents marking up the advertised rent prices on online platforms by up to 100%, driving up costs for both tenants and landlords. This behavior is often justified by agents as a commission, but it directly contributes to the inflation of property prices in Nigeria.
Moreover, the unchecked greed of these agents is exacerbated by landlords who, driven by profit, often expect inflated rent prices and impose additional costs on tenants. This practice not only makes it difficult for individuals to find affordable housing but also worsens the overall economic situation.
Lagos State’s Initiative is a step in the right direction. While the problem persists across the country, the Lagos State Government has taken a commendable step to address the housing crisis. Recognizing the financial burden placed on low-income earners, the Lagos State Government is working to introduce monthly and quarterly rent payment options. This initiative aims to reduce the pressure of annual lump sum payments, which are often beyond the reach of many residents.
This progressive approach is well-received by Lagos residents and provides a glimmer of hope for the future of Nigeria’s housing sector. It allows tenants to manage their finances more effectively and reduces the strain of having to source large sums for rent at once. If this initiative proves successful, it could serve as a model for other states to follow, bringing much-needed relief to tenants who are struggling to keep up with rising rents.
Rent Prices in Abuja are a growing concern. The situation in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, is no different. The cost of renting properties in the city has skyrocketed in recent years. Self-contained apartments in neighborhoods like Life Camp are now listed for as much as ₦200,000 per month, while larger properties in more prestigious areas can cost millions of naira annually. For example, a 3-bedroom apartment in Maitama or Asokoro may cost as much as ₦30,000,000 per year, a sum that is out of reach for the average Nigerian.
The reality of these high rent prices begs the question: Does this align with Nigeria’s minimum wage, which currently stands at ₦70,000 per month? The current rental market is not sustainable for most Nigerians, especially given the country’s high inflation rate and economic instability. The current rent costs are making it harder for individuals and families to find stable housing, and many are left to endure subpar living conditions in cheaper, less secure areas.
The federal government must intervene urgently to regulate the real estate market and protect the interests of tenants and property buyers. Real estate agents should be required to have proper identification, certifications, and adherence to a code of conduct. This would help mitigate the exploitation of tenants and ensure that landlords and agents alike operate within a transparent and fair system.
A legal framework should be put in place to restrict the practice of excessive markups on rent prices by agents, and policies should be introduced to curb the practice of charging exorbitant commission fees. Without such intervention, the Nigerian housing market will continue to be dominated by unscrupulous individuals who care more about their profits than the welfare of Nigerians.
The way forward. The current state of Nigeria’s housing sector is unsustainable, with exploitative agents and skyrocketing rent prices putting immense strain on the economy. The federal government must take immediate action to regulate the sector and ensure that real estate agents operate with proper identification and fair practices. Furthermore, the introduction of flexible payment options, such as monthly or quarterly rent, could significantly ease the burden on tenants and provide a more stable housing market.
Lagos State has set a positive example, and it is time for other states, particularly Abuja, to follow suit. The housing sector should be a means of stability and growth for Nigerians, not an additional burden that exacerbates the nation’s economic struggles. The federal government has the power to create lasting change and now is the time to act before the situation worsens.
By implementing necessary regulations and ensuring fair practices, the Nigerian government can help create a more stable and equitable housing market that benefits both landlords and tenants. The time for action is now, and it is crucial that the government steps in to save Nigerians from the damaging effects of unregulated real estate practices.
