The House of Representatives has expressed concern over the continuous rise in rent across Nigeria and has proposed a regulation that would restrict landlords from increasing rent by more than 20 percent of the existing rate.
The lawmakers said the move is aimed at protecting tenants from exploitation and easing the country’s growing housing challenges.
The decision followed a motion sponsored by Hon. Bassey Akiba, who represents Calabar Municipality and Odukpani Federal Constituency. He explained that many Nigerians are currently struggling to afford decent accommodation due to arbitrary rent hikes imposed by landlords. Akiba urged the Federal Government to create a policy framework that will regulate rental charges nationwide and ensure fair treatment for tenants.
According to Akiba, some landlords increase rents indiscriminately after infrastructural upgrades or other improvements in their surroundings, which he said puts unnecessary financial pressure on ordinary citizens. He emphasized that rent should not exceed 20 percent of the existing amount, regardless of new developments in the area.
The House also called on the Federal Government to prioritize investments in affordable housing projects across the country. Lawmakers said this would help reduce the burden on the rental market and make accommodation more accessible to low and middle-income earners. They also urged the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to collaborate with state governments in implementing effective housing policies.
In a related development, the Lagos State House of Assembly had earlier urged the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to ensure full implementation of the Tenancy Law of Lagos State 2015. The law prohibits unreasonable rent hikes and provides a legal framework for tenants to challenge exploitative landlords.
The lawmakers also tasked the Lagos Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, to intensify public campaigns to educate residents on their rights under the law. They stated that such efforts would help in addressing the persistent issue of arbitrary rent increases and strengthen public trust in housing regulations.