Two residents escaped serious danger on Friday after part of a one-storey residential building collapsed in Kubwa 2/2, near Yellow Page, Abuja.

The victims were inside the ground floor when the right section of the building suddenly gave way at about 11:30am. Rescue teams pulled both residents from the rubble alive and took them to Kubwa General Hospital for treatment.

The Head of Media and Public Relations at the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), Nkechi Isa, confirmed the incident in a statement.

Rescue Operation

FEMD received a distress call about eight minutes after the collapse, at 11:38am. The agency then mobilised its response team to the affected property.

Rescuers reached the scene and worked to free the two trapped residents. Both victims survived the incident and remain in stable condition at the hospital.

No death has been reported in connection with the collapse.

The affected property contains six blocks of flats. However, most of the other occupants were away when the incident occurred. Their absence helped reduce the number of people exposed to the collapse.

Despite the successful rescue, the incident caused major damage to personal belongings and household items belonging to residents.

Authorities Begin Investigation

The Department of Development Control also responded to the scene alongside the FCT Police Command.

The agencies moved to secure the area and begin inquiries into what caused the structural failure. Authorities have not yet released a cause for the collapse.

The investigation will be important in determining whether issues linked to construction, structural integrity or compliance with approved building requirements played any role.

Building Safety and Housing in Abuja

The Kubwa incident again draws attention to the importance of building safety in Abuja’s growing residential communities.

Nigeria continues to face strong demand for housing. As developers respond to that demand, construction quality and regulatory compliance remain important parts of safe housing delivery.

Building approvals, proper structural design and effective site supervision can help reduce risks during construction and occupancy. Development control agencies also play an important role in ensuring that projects follow approved plans and relevant building requirements.

Building failures can have consequences beyond physical damage. Residents may lose household possessions, face temporary displacement and incur unexpected costs after a collapse.

For property owners and developers, the incident also highlights the need to treat structural safety as a core part of housing development. Affordable housing should not come at the expense of safety or compliance with construction standards.

Wider Housing Implications

The collapse in Kubwa highlights a wider challenge for Nigeria’s housing sector. The country needs more homes, but it also needs homes that can provide safe and secure living conditions.

Authorities, developers and other construction professionals all have roles to play in maintaining building standards. Stronger monitoring and timely intervention can help identify potential risks before they become emergencies.

For now, the two rescued residents remain under medical care at Kubwa General Hospital. Meanwhile, the relevant FCT authorities will continue to secure the site and investigate the circumstances surrounding the collapse.

The post Two Rescued After One-Storey Building Collapses in Kubwa, Abuja appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Residents of Ikangba, Agoro, Imodi and Imosan communities in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State have renewed their protest over alleged land grabbing.

The residents marched through their communities on Friday. It was their second protest in less than a month.

They carried placards and called for urgent action from the Ogun State Government and security agencies. Some of the placards urged Governor Dapo Abiodun and President Bola Tinubu to protect their ancestral lands.

The residents accused alleged land grabbers of bringing bulldozers into the communities. They said the machines destroyed buildings, farmlands and other properties.

They also accused the alleged land grabbers of intimidating residents who challenged their activities.

The communities further claimed that some of the individuals operated with security escorts. They called on the authorities to investigate the allegation.

Communities Reject Link to Traditional Ruler

The dispute has also sparked controversy over the role of the Dagburewe of Idowa, Oba Sikiru Okuribido.

The communities rejected reports linking the traditional ruler to the alleged land-grabbing activities. They described the reports as false.

According to the residents, Oba Okuribido comes from one of the affected communities. They said he had supported their efforts to resist the alleged land grabbers.

The communities also questioned the identities of people who claimed to represent Ikangba in a recent online publication. They said the individuals were not recognised as established indigenes or long-term residents.

Residents Seek Investigation

The residents said the dispute had continued despite an earlier intervention by the Ogun State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Oluwasina Ogungbade, SAN.

They want the government to carry out an impartial investigation. They also want officials to establish the ownership history and legal status of the disputed land.

The communities called on the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and Ogun State Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force to investigate all parties.

They want authorities to examine land documents, court judgments, boundaries and other evidence connected to the dispute.

Professor Ayodeji Gafar spoke at a press briefing after Friday’s protest. He said the communities considered the report linking Oba Okuribido to the dispute unfair.

Gafar said the communities wanted transparency over the ownership claims. He also said the dispute should not lead to confrontation.

Bulldozers Allegedly Return Despite Police Directive

Gafar said the communities returned to the streets because alleged land-grabbing activities continued.

He said Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni had directed both sides to maintain the status quo. The directive was to remain in place while authorities worked to resolve the dispute.

However, Gafar said residents later reported the return of bulldozers to disputed areas.

He alleged that the machines continued to clear farmlands and destroy structures.

The communities also raised concerns about unidentified people and unmarked security vehicles in the area.

They further alleged that some individuals carried guns, cutlasses and other weapons. Gafar called for an investigation to establish whether the allegations were true.

Leaders Appeal for Government Intervention

The Baale of Ikangba, Chief Joseph Adebanjo, also condemned the alleged activities.

Chief Adeniyi Oduneye, the Alase Yemule of Ikangba, joined the call for government action.

Alhaji Surajudeen Raji represented the Baale of Agoro. Chief Olusesi Isiaka represented the Baale of Imodi.

The community leaders appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun, President Bola Tinubu, the police and DSS to investigate the dispute.

They warned that continued tension could threaten peace in the affected communities.

Land Disputes Raise Housing Concerns

The dispute also highlights the importance of secure land ownership in Nigeria’s property market.

Clear land records help residents, developers and investors establish ownership before they build or invest. Disputes over ownership can delay housing projects and create risks for property owners.

Unclear boundaries can also affect construction and infrastructure development. For this reason, land administration remains an important part of Nigeria’s housing and real estate sector.

The affected communities are now asking the government to establish the legitimate ownership claims and protect peace in Ikangba, Agoro, Imodi and Imosan.

The post Ogun Communities Protest Alleged Land Grabbers’ Invasion of Ancestral Land appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of about 30 buildings blocking the Right of Way of Abuja’s Ring Road 3.

Wike gave the order on Thursday during an inspection of road projects linking Karsana District, Gwarinpa and the Kubwa axis.

The affected buildings sit within the corridor reserved for Ring Road 3 and its planned interchange. The area forms part of the infrastructure network covered by the Abuja Master Plan.

Wike Orders Immediate Action

The Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, drew Wike’s attention to the structures during the inspection.

Dauda told the minister that the buildings occupy land reserved for the Ring Road 3 project. Wike then called officials of the Department of Development Control to the site.

The minister ordered the officials to remove the structures without delay. He also questioned how developers had managed to build within a major road and interchange corridor.

Wike said the government could not allow private buildings to obstruct important public infrastructure.

Ring Road 3 Project Links Major Areas

The Ring Road 3 project forms part of Abuja’s wider road network. The route will connect Karsana District with the Kubwa Road corridor, also known as the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX).

According to Dauda, the road will also extend towards Airport Road. A planned flyover will connect with the Ring Road 3 alignment as part of the project.

Dauda said construction of the second bridge on the corridor has also moved forward. He noted that workers had started the foundation despite the rocky terrain at the site.

The project team expects bridge construction to continue while work progresses on the wider road corridor.

Development Control Concerns

The discovery of buildings along the road corridor has raised fresh concerns about development control in the Federal Capital Territory.

Abuja relies on planned land use to protect space for roads, public facilities and other infrastructure. When private developments enter these areas, they can create problems for transport projects and urban planning.

The situation also carries risks for property buyers and developers. Investors who purchase or develop land without checking approved land use may face disputes, demolition or financial losses.

For this reason, property developers need to confirm land titles, planning approvals and Right of Way restrictions before starting construction.

Protecting the Abuja Master Plan

The FCT Administration has continued to stress the importance of enforcing the Abuja Master Plan. The plan provides a framework for land use and infrastructure development across the capital.

Wike’s directive shows that the administration intends to prevent buildings from blocking planned road projects. It also places renewed attention on the role of development control officials in monitoring construction.

The immediate removal of the affected buildings will clear the Ring Road 3 corridor for ongoing construction and interchange works.

The development highlights a wider issue facing fast-growing cities: the need to balance private property development with long-term infrastructure planning. Stronger land checks and effective development control can help reduce conflicts between property owners and major public projects.

The post Wike Orders Demolition of 30 Buildings Blocking Abuja Ring Road 3 appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) to strengthen enforcement against fraudulent estate agents. The anti-graft agency also advised the regulator to create a denylist for individuals and companies found guilty of real estate fraud.

The recommendation came during a meeting between the Acting Zonal Director of EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate II, ACE I Bawa Usman Kaltungo, and the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Engineer Abdulhafis Gbolahan Toriola. Senior officials from LASRERA also attended the meeting.

Kaltungo said stronger regulation would help protect homebuyers, investors and property developers. He also called for regular information sharing between both agencies to improve investigations and enforcement.

EFCC Offers Investigative Support

The EFCC said it will continue to support LASRERA with investigations into fraudulent property transactions. Kaltungo explained that closer cooperation would help identify offenders faster and ensure they face prosecution under the law.

He also praised LASRERA for implementing the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority Law 2022. According to him, the law has created a stronger foundation for regulating the real estate industry in Lagos.

The commission disclosed that it is handling several cases involving alleged fake estate agents and property-related fraud. These cases involve individuals and organisations accused of misleading members of the public through illegal real estate transactions.

Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency

Engineer Abdulhafis Gbolahan Toriola said the Lagos State Government remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability and professionalism in the property market.

He noted that stronger collaboration with the EFCC would improve compliance with existing regulations. He added that the partnership would also increase public confidence in buying, selling and investing in property across the state.

Both organisations agreed to deepen their cooperation as part of efforts to reduce criminal activities within the real estate sector.

Why Stronger Regulation Matters

Property fraud remains a major challenge in Nigeria’s housing sector. Many buyers lose money through fake land sales, forged documents, multiple sales of the same property and unregistered estate operators.

These practices weaken investor confidence and slow the growth of the housing market. They also create risks for mortgage lenders, developers and genuine estate professionals.

Industry experts have consistently argued that stronger regulation can improve transparency and attract more investment into Nigeria’s real estate sector. Better enforcement can also encourage responsible housing development and strengthen consumer protection.

As Lagos continues to expand, effective regulation will play an important role in creating a safer property market. Closer cooperation between regulators and law enforcement agencies could help reduce fraud and improve confidence in real estate transactions across the state.

The post EFCC Urges LASRERA to Tighten Oversight, Denylist Fraudulent Estate Agents appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

DARS Group, Partners Unveil Elite City Abuja, Redefining Smart Living with Tech, Wellness and Affordable Housing

By: Folorunsho Adegoke, Housing TV Africa

In a bold move that signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s real estate landscape, DARS Group of Companies, in partnership with leading property developers, has officially unveiled Elite City Abuja, a premium smart city project designed to integrate technology, wellness, sustainability and affordability into modern urban living.

Strategically located in Ketti, Abuja, near the City Walk landmark, the ambitious development was launched before an audience of real estate investors, developers, financial institutions, government representatives and prospective homeowners, all eager to witness what stakeholders described as one of the Federal Capital Territory’s most innovative residential projects.

Speaking during the unveiling, Chairman of DARS Group, Chief Dr. Ronald Ogochukwu Ezaka, said the vision behind Elite City Abuja was inspired by his extensive international travels and exposure to technologically advanced residential communities across the world.

According to him, the company decided it was time to replicate such world-class living standards in Nigeria by creating a city where innovation, wellness and technology converge to improve residents’ quality of life.

“It’s a smart city, it’s a wellness city and a tech hub,” Ezaka said, noting that Elite City represents the first of several similar developments the company intends to build across the country. “We have seen what is possible in other parts of the world, and we believe Nigerians deserve the same standard of living.”

Managing Director of Standard Rank Properties Limited, a subsidiary of DARS Group, Prince Emmanuel Chukwudi Nwafor, described Elite City as one of the company’s largest ongoing developments, emphasizing that although it bears the name “Elite City,” the project is designed to be inclusive.

He explained that the development offers a wide range of housing options, including two-bedroom, three-bedroom and four-bedroom terrace duplexes, as well as mansions and mansionettes, ensuring accommodation for different income categories.

To further promote accessibility, Nwafor disclosed that prospective subscribers can acquire plots within the estate from as low as ₦3.6 million, reinforcing the company’s commitment to making quality housing available to more Nigerians.

The development is already witnessing significant infrastructure work as Project Surveyor, Johnson Oche, disclosed that comprehensive site surveys had been completed across the entire 57-hectare first phase, with engineering considerations carefully incorporated to prevent erosion and ensure proper drainage.

He revealed that construction of the estate’s perimeter fencing and security gatehouses is already underway, adding that the layout has received approval from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and will feature two major access roads for improved accessibility.

One of the project’s strategic development partners, PeakNova Limited, has also committed substantial investment to the city. Its Managing Director, Victor Egede, announced that the company had acquired 15 hectares within Elite City and intends to develop an eco-friendly residential community capable of accommodating about 250 residents.

Beyond smart infrastructure, he said residents should expect premium lifestyle facilities including a swimming pool, lawn tennis courts, resort facilities and other high-quality social amenities.

“We don’t just make promises; we build,” he said, pointing to the company’s existing developments as evidence of its delivery capacity.

Similarly, CEO of Great Home Properties Limited highlighted the investment opportunities embedded in the project, noting that buyers can either build homes or acquire land for future capital appreciation.

He also disclosed that residents would enjoy recreational facilities including football and tennis courts, among other lifestyle amenities.

The host community has also welcomed the project as District Head of Ketti Community, Chief Alex Akata, expressed optimism that the development would stimulate employment opportunities, improve social infrastructure and strengthen collaboration between developers and the local community.

He described the investment as a catalyst for economic growth and youth empowerment within the district.

For the Group Managing Director of DARS Group, Stephen Augustine Egbe, Elite City represents the future of urban living. He explained that the project combines affordability with comfort while integrating smart technologies that position the development ahead of conventional residential estates.

According to him, innovation will remain central to future phases of the project as the company continues to embrace emerging technologies and evolving housing trends.

Industry stakeholders also praised the collaborative development model adopted for the project. Managing Director of Squarehead Consult Limited, Jude Ashang, observed that partnerships among developers help reduce infrastructure costs while improving project quality. He argued that shared investment in infrastructure ultimately contributes to lowering housing costs and delivering better value for homeowners.

“This is one of the ways to reduce the cost of real estate because several companies working together can share infrastructure costs and achieve greater efficiency,” he said.

Another development partner, Managing Director of Forth Urban Limited, Barr. Eze Victor Kelechi, described Elite City as Nigeria’s first integrated premium tech and wellness city, stressing that one of its defining features is inclusiveness.

He disclosed that the flexible payment structure introduced for the project was influenced by discussions at the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), with deliberate provisions made to enable low-income earners to participate.

According to him, “low-income earners also deserve to live like elites,” underscoring the project’s commitment to expanding access to quality housing.

From a youth perspective, Managing Director of Vestage Limited, Nelson Okezie, said technology is increasingly shaping modern lifestyles, making smart cities inevitable. He noted that Elite City Abuja has the potential to become a model for future developments in the Federal Capital Territory by providing residents with technology-driven services that simplify daily living while creating more time for work, family and recreation.

Developers say the development is being conceived as more than a conventional housing estate. Plans include reliable electricity infrastructure capable of supporting both residential and commercial activities, sustainable water supply systems, a modern security architecture, recreational parks and green spaces that promote healthy living, all consistent with the city’s branding as a Premium Tech and Wellness City.

According to DARS Group, the development has been carefully planned to combine modern infrastructure, security, accessibility and sustainable urban planning while creating long-term investment opportunities for homeowners and investors alike.

As demand continues to rise for well-planned communities within the Federal Capital Territory, the developers believe Elite City Abuja is strategically positioned to become a benchmark for the next generation of smart, sustainable and inclusive residential developments in Nigeria.

The post DARS Group Unveils Elite City Abuja, Smart Tech and Wellness City with Affordable Housing appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving access to land as part of efforts to make homeownership more attainable for low-income Nigerians.

To advance this goal, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will lead high-level discussions on land administration and reforms during the 20th Africa International Housing Show (AIHS 2026 – Legacy Edition).

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Babatunde Haiba.

According to the statement, the Land Administration Session, scheduled to hold from July 13 to 18, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, forms part of the government’s broader strategy to improve land accessibility for affordable and low-cost housing, particularly for low-income earners and workers in the informal sector.

The event will bring together key stakeholders, including state commissioners for lands, directors of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), surveyors-general, directors of lands, policymakers, investors, development partners and other professionals in the housing sector.

The ministry said participants would explore practical solutions to improve land administration and accelerate housing delivery across Nigeria and Africa.

With the theme, “Housing Solutions for Low-Income and Informal Workers in Africa,” the conference will focus on strengthening land governance, streamlining land administration processes and leveraging technology to create transparent, efficient and investment-friendly systems.

Discussions will cover land digitisation, automation, property registration reforms, land titling, GIS, geospatial technologies, cadastral management and strategies to expand land access for affordable housing projects.

The ministry added that the session would also promote stronger collaboration between state governments, housing finance institutions, development finance organisations, private investors and international development partners.

States participating in the event are expected to showcase ongoing land reform initiatives, exchange best practices and engage technical and financial partners to develop viable housing projects.

The ministry maintained that efficient and transparent land administration remains critical to achieving affordable housing targets and promoting inclusive urban development nationwide.

Chief Executive Officer of the Africa International Housing Show, Festus Adebayo, said the session would strengthen collaboration between the ministry and industry stakeholders to advance land reforms and boost housing development across the country.

The post FG to Lead Land Reform Talks at AIHS 2026 to Boost Affordable Housing appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Nigeria’s real estate sector continues to face significant financing challenges that are slowing down housing and commercial property development across the country.

Industry observers note that access to adequate funding remains one of the biggest barriers to project execution, as developers struggle to secure affordable and long-term capital needed for large-scale construction.

High borrowing costs from commercial banks, combined with short repayment periods, have made it difficult for many developers to sustain ongoing projects. In several cases, construction work slows down or is abandoned due to financial pressure.

The lack of affordable mortgage options also continues to limit the sector’s growth. Many potential homebuyers are unable to access financing, reducing demand for newly built properties and discouraging large-scale investments in housing development.

These financing constraints have contributed to Nigeria’s widening housing deficit, as population growth and urbanisation continue to outpace the supply of new homes in major cities.

Rising construction costs have further worsened the situation, with inflation and currency fluctuations increasing the cost of building materials and overall project budgets. This has forced developers to adjust designs, delay completion timelines, or seek additional funding that is often difficult to obtain.

Beyond developers, the funding gap has wider economic implications. The real estate sector supports multiple industries, including construction, manufacturing, engineering, and professional services. When projects are delayed, job creation and economic activity across these sectors are also affected.

Experts suggest that addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts between government, financial institutions, and private investors. Improved access to long-term financing, development of flexible mortgage systems, and alternative funding models such as investment trusts and public-private partnerships are seen as key solutions.

Without stronger financing structures, analysts warn that Nigeria’s housing deficit will continue to grow, placing additional pressure on urban infrastructure and affordability.

The post Lack of Funds Stalls Real Estate Development in Nigeria appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

A massive economic milestone achieved

The Central Bank recently announced incredibly positive economic news. Nigeria FX reserves officially hit an astounding $50.2 billion. This remarkable figure represents the absolute highest reserve level recorded in exactly 17 years.

Currently, this massive surge signals strong recovery for the national economy. You can track ongoing financial data directly on the Central Bank of Nigeria website.

What drives the Nigeria FX reserves surge?

Several key factors drove this massive financial recovery recently. Analysts point to aggressive government reforms and increased foreign direct investment. Furthermore, improved oil revenues heavily boosted the national treasury over the past year.

Key drivers pushing this massive growth include:

• Oil exports: Higher production levels completely stabilized national income streams.

• Forex reforms: The Central Bank implemented highly transparent currency trading mechanisms.

• Remittances: Increased diaspora funds significantly strengthened the domestic economy.

Consequently, these strategic policies successfully attracted cautious international investors back.

How this impacts the local economy

Building massive Nigeria FX reserves provides a crucial economic buffer. A strong financial reserve actively helps stabilize the volatile Naira exchange rate. Therefore, local businesses can import vital raw materials much cheaper now.

Additionally, this massive financial milestone signals renewed global confidence in the economy. Investors generally prefer countries holding massive emergency funds.

What happens next for the market?

Financial experts genuinely expect this positive momentum to continue steadily. However, sustaining these reserves requires strict fiscal discipline from the government. The administration must protect these vital funds against sudden global market shocks.

Ultimately, maintaining a stable national economy deeply benefits everyday citizens across the country.

The post Nigeria FX Reserves Hit $50.2bn: A Massive 17-Year High appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

South Africa’s Minister of Human Settlements, Thembisile Simelane, has warned that significant budget cuts could undermine the government’s ability to meet housing delivery targets and address the country’s growing housing crisis.

Presenting Budget Vote 33 before Parliament, Simelane revealed that the department’s baseline allocation would be reduced by R20.6 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, including a R19.7 billion reduction to the Urban Settlements Development Grant.

“The reality is that we are operating under severe fiscal constraints,” Simelane told lawmakers.

Housing Backlog Remains a Major Challenge

Despite government efforts, South Africa continues to face a substantial housing shortage. According to the minister, the national housing backlog currently stands at approximately 2.6 million units, while 11.7 percent of households still live in informal settlements.

For the 2026 financial year, the department plans to deliver:

• 39,058 housing units
• 25,186 serviced sites
• 21,918 title deeds
• 2,878 social housing units
• 744 houses for military veterans
• 6,950 mud-house replacements
• 11,215 solar energy installations

However, Simelane acknowledged that housing delivery fell below expectations in the previous financial year.

The department completed 23,027 housing units against a target of 37,779 units.

“This situation cannot continue,” she said, pledging stricter action against underperforming contractors and officials responsible for procurement delays.

Progress Recorded Despite Funding Constraints

The minister disclosed that government interventions have helped revive several stalled housing projects nationwide.

Out of 212 blocked housing developments identified across the country, 85 have been unblocked, resulting in the delivery of 1,136 housing units in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Free State and North West provinces.

She also noted that the Housing Development Agency exceeded expectations by acquiring 2,447 hectares of strategically located land, more than double its target of 1,000 hectares.

Additionally, provinces delivered 24,251 serviced sites against a target of 13,995.

Opposition Parties Reject Budget

Several opposition parties rejected the housing budget, arguing that it fails to adequately address South Africa’s housing challenges.

Democratic Alliance lawmaker Conrad Poole said the country’s housing crisis is now largely an implementation problem rather than a policy issue.

“Nonperformance, corruption, stalled projects and weak oversight have become legacy problems within the sector,” he said.

Meanwhile, MK Party lawmaker Thulani Gamede criticised the spending cuts, arguing that government was retreating from its responsibility to provide housing for vulnerable citizens.

“Housing is not merely a commodity. It is a fundamental right,” he said.

Members of the Economic Freedom Fighters also opposed the budget, saying it does little to reverse apartheid-era spatial planning patterns that continue to push low-income communities to the outskirts of cities.

Calls for Inclusive Urban Development

Lawmakers and housing advocates stressed that housing delivery should go beyond constructing homes and focus on creating sustainable communities with access to transportation, healthcare, education and economic opportunities.

According to Rise Mzansi lawmaker Makashule Gana, human settlements should not consist of houses located far from jobs and essential services.

As South Africa grapples with fiscal pressures and rising housing demand, the debate highlights the challenge of balancing budget constraints with the constitutional obligation to provide adequate housing for millions of citizens.

The post South Africa’s Housing Delivery Under Threat as R20.6bn Budget Cut Sparks Concerns appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Lagos State Government generated approximately N80 billion from building approval applications in 2025, according to the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide.

Olumide made the disclosure on Friday during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing held to commemorate the seventh year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

According to the commissioner, the amount reflects the state’s growing success in planning regulation, permit processing, and revenue generation from development activities.

Approval Charges Vary By Location

Explaining how building approval fees are determined, Olumide said charges depend on the size, value, and location of a proposed development.

“For example, somebody developing in Ikorodu may not pay the same thing as somebody developing in Ikoyi,” he said.

He explained that all payments are made through designated banks and not directly to the ministry.

“It is after getting that receipt that you come to us and show the receipt. A copy of the receipt goes into your file and we process the application. We don’t collect money directly.

“What we know is that at the end of the year, our performance is reflected in revenue records. Last year, I think we generated about N80 billion or so,” he added.

Tax Compliance Important For Approval

The commissioner noted that applicants with questionable tax records could experience delays or rejection of their applications.

According to him, tax declarations must align with the scale of the proposed development.

“Now, you have somebody who pays N200,000 as annual tax and wants to develop a N3 billion building. Something is not okay. You have not disclosed the right tax information, and such an application may not proceed because your tax status is in doubt,” he said.

Government Warns Against Illegal Developments

Olumide also warned developers against constructing buildings on restricted corridors such as gas pipelines and power transmission routes.

He stressed that structures erected on such locations could face immediate demolition.

“If you build on a gas line, we will remove it immediately. If you build on a power line, we will remove it immediately,” he said.

The commissioner added that developments that significantly deviate from approved plans may also be demolished without delay.

Distressed Buildings Face Enforcement Action

He further disclosed that distressed and structurally unsafe buildings remain a major concern for the government.

According to him, buildings assessed as unsafe may be marked for urgent attention and, where necessary, demolished to protect lives and property.

“If a building is assessed and adjudged no longer suitable, it can be brought down immediately. When we mark a building as distressed, we are simply calling the owner’s attention to take necessary action,” Olumide stated.

The commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to enforcing planning regulations, promoting orderly urban development, and ensuring public safety across Lagos State.

The post Lagos Generated N80bn From Building Approval Applications in 2025 – Commissioner appeared first on Housing TV Africa.