The House of Representatives has proposed a new policy that would limit rent increases across Nigeria to no more than 20% of the current rate. The goal is to stop sudden rent hikes and make housing more affordable for Nigerians.
The proposal was introduced by Hon. Bassey Akiba, who represents Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency. He said that many Nigerians face unfair rent increases because there is no clear law controlling how much landlords can charge. Akiba called on the Federal Government to invest more in affordable housing and speed up the delivery of low-cost homes to ease the burden on tenants.
Lawmakers agreed that the move would help create a fairer housing system. They also directed key committees to work with the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), and state housing agencies to design sustainable rent policies that support low- and middle-income earners.
Lawmakers Demand Accountability from Security Agencies
In another decision, the House directed the Inspector General of Police and the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to ensure that officers on duty at checkpoints wear full uniforms and carry proper identification. The lawmakers said this would improve accountability and public trust in security operations.
This move follows similar actions by the Lagos State House of Assembly, which recently strengthened the enforcement of the 2015 Tenancy Law. The law prevents unreasonable rent increases and protects tenants from exploitation.
The Lagos Assembly also instructed the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to ensure strict enforcement, while the Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, was asked to increase public awareness about tenants’ rights under existing laws.
