The Ekiti State Government has urged property owners with land or buildings within 50 meters on both sides of Airport Road, Ado-Ekiti, to present themselves for verification at the Bureau of Land Services.

The announcement, issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Lands, Surveys and Geographic Information System (eGIS), Professor James Olaleye, said the exercise is aimed at properly documenting affected landowners for future government action.

Owners are required to visit the Bureau of Land Services, located behind the House of Assembly Complex at the State Secretariat, on or before September 30, 2025.

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In a bid to accommodate widespread appeals from residents, the Ogun State Government has extended by two weeks the deadline for property owners and occupiers to submit title documents under its ongoing physical development audit.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Olatunji Odunlami, who said the extension was designed to give stakeholders “ample time” to comply.

According to Odunlami, the reprieve allows affected individuals to either present valid planning permits or approach the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, along with its relevant agencies, to regularise unapproved structures.

“This extension reflects the goodwill of the State Government in response to representations from a cross-section of affected property owners, particularly in Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode,” the commissioner stated.

He emphasised that the move underscores Ogun State’s commitment to the rule of law, procedural fairness, and transparency, while making clear that the concession “does not in any way diminish the constitutional and statutory measures already undertaken in this matter.”

Dispelling concerns about selective enforcement, Odunlami reaffirmed that the audit exercise is neither punitive nor politically motivated.

“The physical development audit currently underway in Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, and other parts of the state is not a witch-hunt, but a deliberate, ongoing effort to foster sustainable urban growth and orderly development across Ogun State,” he said.

The post Ogun State Grants Two-Week Extension for Property Documentation appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

This reprieve followed the initial revocation of over 4,700 titles by the FCT Administration, some of which had been owing for up to 43 years.

Before the president’s intervention, several defaulting properties had already been sealed off. While the grace period offered a lifeline to settle outstanding debts, affected property owners were also slammed with additional penalties ranging from N2 million to N5 million, depending on location on top of the backlog of unpaid rents.

An official at the Abuja Geographical Information System (AGIS), speaking off the record, confirmed the expiration of the grace period but said there’s been no official communication yet on what the next enforcement steps will be. The source noted that many defaulters have made payments, though it remains unclear if high-profile institutions like the Federal Inland Revenue Service, the PDP, and Ibro Hotels whose properties were earlier sealed are among those that have complied.

Meanwhile, the FCT Minister’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Lere Olayinka, explained that payments are being processed online via Remita, making real-time tracking of payees difficult.

For now, AGIS says payments will still be accepted until further notice, as no directive has been given to halt the process. The crackdown by the Wike-led FCT administration earlier affected a wide range of properties, from private residences and corporate offices to diplomatic missions and political party headquarters.

The post Deadline Hits as Grace Period for Ground Rent Defaulters Ends Today appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

It will take effect on April 21, 2025. This move is meant to raise more revenue and improve land control in Nigeria’s capital.

Under the new rules, anyone who gets land in Abuja must develop it within two years. This starts from the day their Right of Occupancy begins. If they don’t build within that time, the land will be taken back.

There’s also a 21-day deadline for new land offers. Once someone receives an offer, they must pay all fees and submit an acceptance letter within 21 days. If they fail to do this, the offer becomes invalid even if they try to pay later.

People holding old land papers from area councils should also take note. Abuja treats all land as urban. That means old documents must be checked and updated. Since 2006, over 261,000 land papers have been submitted for regularisation. Only a little over 2,300 have been cleared. The rest are still waiting.

Once a document is cleared, the landowner will have 60 days to pay all charges. If not, the offer will be withdrawn.

The Mass Housing Scheme is also part of the reform. This program started in 2000 to help people get affordable homes. The government gave out 445 housing allocations. But only two developers followed all the rules. Starting April 21, developers and subscribers can now apply for their land titles.

Experts are warning landowners to act now. Ikeoluwa Imam, a town planner, said people should check their land payment status through the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS). If any charges are due, they should pay them. Once the fees are paid, no one can take the land—unless it’s for the public good. In that case, the owner must get compensation.

If a land title hasn’t been approved yet, the owner will need to wait for the next regularisation period. Imam also advised residents in estates to apply for official land titles through the FCT lands department.

But Imam had a warning for the minister. He said reforms should not be used to take people’s land unfairly. Nigeria is facing a tough economy. People are struggling. Land seizures should not be used to raise revenue. He reminded the minister that actions taken today will be judged tomorrow.

The post FCT Landowners on Alert as Wike Rolls Out Strict New Land Policy appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

This action aims to increase tax compliance and raise funds needed for key public projects. The government hopes this step will also encourage accountability among property owners.

Mr. Tajudeen Mahmud, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, confirmed the plan. He stated that the decision is fully backed by the Land Use Charge Law of 2020. According to him, the government has made several efforts to deliver annual bills to residents. Despite this, many still ignore their payment obligations.

While some property owners have paid their LUC bills promptly, many others continue to default. The Land Use Charge helps fund vital infrastructure like roads, schools, and drainage systems. Without proper funding, these public services cannot meet the city’s growing needs.

From April, the government will begin publishing a list of defaulters. Mahmud explained that this will act as a final warning. After that, legal measures may follow. These may include taking over defaulting properties, as allowed by law.

All property owners are encouraged to check their payment status immediately. Those with unpaid charges should settle their bills to avoid being named publicly.

For any questions or concerns, residents can visit the Land Use Charge Contact Centre. It is located at Block 12, The Secretariat, Alausa-Ikeja.

This latest move shows the government’s serious approach to tax enforcement. It also highlights the need for everyone to contribute to Lagos State’s development.

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According to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, at least 700 individuals have received payments for structures impacted by the first phase of construction.

He shared this update during a stakeholder meeting at Eko Hotel in Lagos. Umahi also used the opportunity to address recent controversies surrounding the project.

The minister made it clear that the government has acted transparently and fairly. He responded to claims from an international investor who alleged her $250 million investment was threatened by the road project. Umahi explained that all affected owners were identified and paid compensation legally. He said the claims being circulated are simply not true.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is over 700 kilometers long. It is designed to reduce traffic on existing routes and improve movement across Nigeria. The project is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and is expected to bring long-term development along the coastal region.

Umahi said the project is not just about roads. It is about safety, growth, and building smarter infrastructure for the future. He confirmed that the second phase of the project has already begun. Site clearing and dredging are underway. All construction follows the best environmental and engineering standards.

The highway will include key features like a central rail line and shoreline protection. These additions aim to make the road both modern and climate-resilient.

Umahi also acknowledged the sacrifices made by property owners along the route. He promised that the government will continue to engage with communities and developers. The goal is to protect as many properties as possible while still building an efficient and cost-effective road.

Community leaders at the meeting praised the government for its efforts. They urged officials to keep addressing issues such as drainage, dredging, and long-term road durability. Umahi assured them that the ministry is listening and working to meet those needs.

With bulldozers on site and new plans in motion, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is already making an impact. Hundreds of people have been compensated, and more will benefit from improved roads and new opportunities. This project is more than just construction. It represents what’s possible when progress is built on responsibility.

The post Progress Steady on Lagos-Calabar Highway as 700 Property Owners Receive Compensation appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The consequences are tragic. Buildings keep collapsing, lives are lost, businesses crumble, and families are left without homes. Developers cut corners, ignoring safety regulations. Many homeowners assume disaster won’t happen to them, while authorities fail to hold anyone accountable.

Under Nigeria’s 2003 Insurance Act (Cap 117), any building used for residential, commercial, educational, or medical purposes must have insurance coverage. This includes protection against collapse, fire, floods, earthquakes, vandalism, theft, and third-party damage. The goal is simple: when a building fails, victims should receive financial compensation, and property owners should have the means to rebuild.

But in reality, most people don’t comply. A survey by Housingtvafrica found that only two out of every ten property owners bother to insure their buildings. The reasons? Some believe “God will protect them,” while others either don’t know the law exists or simply don’t trust insurance companies. Many assume that even if they pay for coverage, they will never receive a payout when disaster strikes.

And yet, compliance is incredibly affordable. The compulsory insurance costs just ₦5,000 per plot and per floor. A two-story building on one plot costs around ₦15,000, while the same structure on two plots is ₦20,000. Developers constructing buildings over two floors are required to secure coverage or face a fine of ₦250,000—or even three years in prison.

Still, enforcement is weak.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

In the past 50 years, Nigeria has recorded at least 629 building collapses, resulting in over 1,578 deaths. Lagos accounts for more than half of these cases, with 326 recorded incidents. Other high-risk states include Anambra, Oyo, Kano, Delta, and the FCT. Meanwhile, states like Gombe, Bayelsa, Taraba, and Katsina have seen the fewest cases.

A recent tragedy underscores the crisis. At Oriwu Estate near Lekki-Epe Expressway, a three-story building under construction collapsed, killing four people and injuring several others. None of the victims had insurance coverage. The owner? Left to deal with the financial losses alone.

The pattern is all too familiar. Injured workers are abandoned. Families of the deceased receive no compensation. Neighbors suffer damage to their properties with no recourse for repairs. And the developers responsible? Many simply move on to the next project, escaping any real consequences.

The Real Cost of Non-Compliance

For property owners, the lack of insurance leads to financial ruin. If a building collapses, they are forced to shoulder reconstruction costs alone. When damages extend to nearby buildings, neighbors must pay for repairs out of pocket. If the owner faces lawsuits, legal fees can run into millions of naira. Without insurance, these losses can be impossible to recover from.

Despite these risks, compliance remains dismal—even in Lagos, where the law is integrated into the Urban and Regional Planning and Development Act. Property owners are required to submit proof of insurance to the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), but enforcement has been weak.

Ogun State has also mandated compulsory insurance through its 2022 Building Production Management Authority Regulation. Developers must obtain an All-Risk Insurance Policy for any structure over two floors. This policy covers losses from construction failures, worker injuries, and third-party damage. Yet, like in Lagos, enforcement remains largely ineffective.

Why Nigerians Still Ignore the Law

Experts point to several factors fueling non-compliance:

• Weak Enforcement: State agencies lack the manpower or commitment to enforce the law effectively.

• Lack of Awareness: Many developers and property owners don’t even know insurance is mandatory.

• Mistrust in Insurance Companies: Many believe insurers will take their money but refuse to pay when disaster strikes.

• Cost-Cutting by Developers: Some developers deliberately avoid insurance to save money, even if it puts workers and tenants at risk.

Lola Olawore, an insurance expert at Staco Insurance Plc, believes the only solution is stronger enforcement. “Most Nigerians don’t take insurance seriously unless they are forced to. Look at Third-Party Vehicle Insurance—compliance only increased when the authorities cracked down on violators.”

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has acknowledged the issue. CEO Olusegun Omosehin recently revealed plans to increase Nigeria’s insurance penetration to 5% in the coming years. But for now, most Nigerians still view insurance as unnecessary.

Samson Opaluwah, Chairman of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), warns that unless the Contractor All-Risk (CAR) Insurance policy is strictly enforced, the cycle of disaster will continue. “This policy exists to protect buildings and workers on-site. But because enforcement is so weak, most contractors ignore it entirely.”

What Needs to Change?

The solution is simple: strict enforcement, public education, and severe penalties for violators.

The government must:

1. Mandate proof of insurance before construction permits are issued.

2. Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance.

3. Apply heavy fines and penalties on developers who fail to comply.

4. Educate property owners on the importance of insurance coverage.

Until these measures are taken seriously, more buildings will collapse. More lives will be lost. More investments will be destroyed.

For now, the cycle continues. Developers ignore the law. Authorities fail to act. And when disaster strikes, it’s the victims who pay the ultimate price. Unless something changes, the next tragedy is only a matter of time.

The post Why Nigeria Keeps Losing Lives and Investments to Building Collapses appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

As the cost of rent continues to rise, particularly in the capital city of Umuahia, the government is working closely with private developers. This collaboration seeks to create sustainable solutions that will balance the housing market and ease the burden on tenants.

Government’s Commitment to Housing Expansion

Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumereije, emphasized at a press conference in Umuahia that the administration of Governor Alex Otti is fully committed to expanding the state’s housing capacity. He acknowledged that the skyrocketing cost of rent is driven by the fundamental forces of demand and supply. More people are seeking accommodation than the available housing stock can support.

Rather than attempting to regulate rent prices directly, which would likely be ineffective in a free-market economy, the government has opted for a strategic approach. It plans to increase the supply of homes through the construction of new estates.

A Surge in Migration and Property Demand

Abia has gained a reputation as an attractive destination for businesses and individuals looking to relocate. As a result, the state has seen a significant influx of people. The administration has successfully fostered a business-friendly environment, leading to a surge in investments and migration.

This increased demand has inevitably put pressure on available housing and driven up property values. Chukwumereije emphasized that the government’s response is to create more opportunities for homeownership and rental options. To achieve this, it is working with reputable private developers to establish modern housing estates across different locations.

Providing Affordable Housing Options

The estates will cater to various income levels, with a strong focus on providing low-cost housing for those in need of affordable accommodation. By addressing the housing deficit from the supply side, the government aims to create a more balanced market. As more options become available, rents are expected to stabilize naturally.

Enforcement of Land Title Recertification and Rent Demand Notices

In addition to unveiling new housing initiatives, the Abia State government is intensifying its enforcement of land title recertification and rent demand notices. Chukwumereije announced that property owners who have not yet complied with the recertification process, which began in May 2024, will now face legal action.

Multiple grace periods have already been granted. However, the government has set a firm deadline of 14 days for property owners to submit their title documents. Failure to do so will result in full legal enforcement.

Regulating Real Estate Transactions for Transparency

The commissioner stressed that the enforcement process applies to all existing housing estates in Abia. This includes key locations such as IBB Phase I, Agbama, Ehimiri, Isieke, and the World Bank Estates in both Umuahia and Aba.

This move is part of a broader effort to streamline property ownership, eliminate irregularities in land documentation, and ensure that real estate transactions in the state remain transparent and properly regulated.

A Promising Future for Housing in Abia

As the government pushes forward with these initiatives, residents and investors can look forward to improved access to quality housing. The administration remains committed to creating an environment where businesses and individuals can thrive without the constant struggle of finding suitable accommodation.

With a clear strategy focused on expanding housing supply, enforcing property regulations, and maintaining a strong partnership with private developers, Abia is positioning itself as a model for sustainable urban growth in Nigeria.

The post Abia Takes Bold Steps to Tackle Soaring Rent Prices with New Housing Estates appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

With millions of Nigerians struggling to afford decent housing while many properties remain vacant, the government aims to make hoarding real estate an expensive decision.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Ahmed Musa Dangiwa explained that while property owners cannot be forced to lease or sell, financial disincentives can discourage speculation. For instance, if a property valued at N5 million annually remains vacant, a N3 million ground rent could make it too costly to leave the building unoccupied. This approach is expected to push owners to either rent or sell their properties.

To execute this policy, the government has launched a nationwide survey to identify empty . Legal experts are currently reviewing strategies to ensure the policy does not infringe on property rights while compelling owners to contribute to the housing market.

In addition to tackling vacant homes, the government is also cracking down on substandard construction within the Renewed Hope City housing initiative. Minister Dangiwa revealed that some contractors have been using inferior materials and cutting corners, hoping to conceal defects with finishing touches.

In response, the government has vowed to take strict action, including immediate contract termination for any contractor found guilty of poor-quality work.

To strengthen oversight, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has deployed teams of experts—including architects, quantity surveyors, and structural engineers—across all 36 states.

These professionals are ensuring that construction projects meet national safety and quality standards, preventing shoddy workmanship that could endanger lives.

The government’s bold stance signals a major shift in housing regulations. As these policies take effect, many Nigerians remain hopeful that they will lead to a more affordable and quality-driven housing market. However, concerns persist about how property owners and developers will respond to the new rules.

The post Government Cracks Down on Empty Homes and Substandard Housing appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Oyo State Government has commenced a re-verification exercise for property owners and claimants affected by land acquisition along the first segment of the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, covering Alago to Ajota areas in Ibadan.

The exercise, which began on Sunday at the Islamic High School, Basorun, is scheduled to run until Saturday, targeting around 3,000 property owners and claimants. The Chairman of the Monitoring Team for Compensation, Sunday Odukoya, assured that the government would prioritize payments to rightful claimants.

Odukoya, a retired Commissioner of Police, stated that Governor Seyi Makinde directed the prompt execution of the verification to prevent undue delays and ensure timely compensation.

“The governor instructed us to expedite this process to prevent claimants from enduring unnecessary hardship. We are working every day until Saturday to conclude the exercise,” Odukoya said.

He emphasized that documents such as NIN, land purchase receipts, surveys, and other relevant papers would be required for verification. Despite a slow turnout, he urged affected residents to participate, assuring that the government remains committed to its promise of compensation.

In a related development, the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has launched raids against illegal street traders within Ibadan’s metropolis, targeting areas such as Oritamerin, Gege, Agbeni, and Ogunpa.

OYRTMA Chairman, Retired Major Adekoya Adesagba, highlighted that the makeshift markets in these areas caused severe traffic congestion, environmental pollution, and drainage blockages, exacerbating flooding.

During the operation, 12 individuals operating illegal motor parks were apprehended, and traders violating regulations faced fines and had their stalls seized. Adesagba urged marketers to desist from road trading, emphasizing that these measures are for their safety and the city’s overall welfare.

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