Lagos Estate Surveyors Advocate Affordable Land Access and Balanced Rent Reform

The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers has called on the government to facilitate affordable access to land while simultaneously ensuring sustainable public revenue through the efficient collection of ground rent. This position was articulated by the Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter, Gbenga Ismail, during a recent media briefing at the institution’s annual Estate Surveyors’ Week held in Lagos.

Ismail emphasized the imperative for land to be made available at a marginal cost, with payment spread across a number of years to ease the burden on developers. He stated:

“Government should allow land to be accessed cheaply at marginal cost and amortise it over years, allowing the builder to build quietly while the government earns their money through ground rent fees and other fees related to housing income.”

He lamented the heavy reliance on imported materials in the housing sector, revealing that more than 70 percent of finishing components are sourced from abroad. This, he argued, severely undermines affordability for the average Nigerian.

“It is unfortunate that over 70 per cent of finishing housing products are imported. If a three-bedroom flat goes for N15m, where is the affordability for an average Nigerian?”

As Lagos State explores the implementation of a monthly rent payment framework, Ismail urged the authorities to ensure that such reforms are supported by robust legislation, practical enforcement infrastructure, and incentives that encourage compliance.

“While the intention of the state government on rent regulation and monthly rent payment is commendable, implementation must be handled with great care.”

The proposed scheme, aimed at alleviating financial strain among residents—particularly those in the low-income bracket—includes options for monthly and quarterly rent payments. However, Ismail cautioned that such initiatives must strike a delicate balance between protecting tenants’ rights and safeguarding the long-term viability of landlords’ investments. He recommended that the pilot phase be launched within government-owned estates before extending it to private housing developments.

Advocating for a consultative, data-driven approach, Ismail reiterated the institution’s readiness to collaborate with government stakeholders in crafting a rent regulation framework that is equitable, enforceable, and attuned to prevailing market conditions.

He noted:

“The forum is a reaffirmation of the institution’s values and relevance to the built environment; hence, the estate week remains a key feature of the branch’s professional calendar and a time for reflection on commitment to service.”

Reflecting on the chapter’s recent achievements, Ismail highlighted enhanced visibility, strengthened ethical standards, and the rollout of numerous strategic initiatives. These include the Lagos State Real Estate Summit, peer-review mechanisms such as the Heads of Practice Assembly, and the establishment of a resource centre focused on continuous professional development.

“In addition, I set out to ensure more qualified estate surveyors & valuers were brought into the fold. Others are the numerous Mandatory Professional Continuous Development programmes to hone the skills of members. This singular achievement has distinguished Lagos Estate Surveyors & Valuers from others from other states in terms of skill set and confidence in their jobs.”