Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat says the state government plans to enforce the one-year rent payment provision in its real estate law to stop landlords from demanding two or three years’ rent in advance. He made the announcement during a governorship debate organised by the Nigeria Debate Consortium in Lagos on Sunday.
Hamzat, who is the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, said the provision was contained in the Lagos State Real Estate Registration Agency law passed in 2025. He added that the government’s priority was now to ensure landlords and other property operators comply with the requirement.
He urged residents to use the online platform of the Lagos State Real Estate Registration Agency to report violations and other concerns.
According to him, feedback from residents would help the government monitor activities in the property sector and identify cases requiring intervention.
On housing affordability, Hamzat said the government would complete ongoing housing projects and reduce delays in obtaining property regularisation and title documents. He explained that delays in processing land documents could increase housing costs, adding that the state had automated the application process to allow residents to apply online.
The deputy governor also called for stronger partnerships with private developers to expand housing access beyond affluent neighbourhoods.
He suggested that developers building in areas such as Ikoyi and Victoria Island should consider undertaking projects in less affluent communities as well.
Hamzat said his manifesto’s “Everyday Dignity” component was designed to prevent rent payments from placing excessive financial pressure on residents. He acknowledged that Lagos operates a capitalist economy but said the government would need to work with landlords to address the concerns of tenants.
Advance rent payments have remained a major concern for Lagos residents. Section 4 of the Lagos State Tenancy Law 2011 prohibits landlords and their agents from demanding more than one year’s rent in advance from new tenants, while setting limits for sitting tenants. Hamzat said enforcing the relevant provisions would form part of the government’s efforts to address challenges in the rental market.
