By Fresh Facts Correspondent –
LAGOS — The Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, has assured residents that the proposed Lagos State Tenancy Bill 2025 will strengthen the rights of tenants and landlords, while creating a more transparent and investor-friendly real estate environment.
Akinderu-Fatai gave the assurance during a public hearing on the bill at the Lagos State House of Assembly, where he emphasized that the legislation was designed to reduce recurring conflicts in landlord-tenant relations.
“As of today, there are several issues surrounding landlord-tenant relationships. This bill is intended to ensure that everyone knows their rights — tenants are protected, and landlords are equally protected,” he told journalists.
The Commissioner praised the lawmakers for their detailed research in drafting the bill, noting that the new law would instill confidence in private sector investors and accelerate mass housing development across the state.
“When passed into law, this bill will escalate investment in the real estate sector and give assurance to investors that their developments are secured,” he added.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Akinderu-Fatai highlighted major provisions of the proposed legislation, including:
- Regulation of estate agents through mandatory registration, capped commissions, and limits on agency fees — a move he described as a direct response to public complaints about exploitation.
- Introduction of virtual hearings in tenancy-related cases to speed up dispute resolution.
- Recognition of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, with agreements enforceable by the courts.
- Right of landlords to inspect and maintain properties, provided tenants receive adequate notice.
He also urged lawmakers to revisit the existing requirement for landlords to insure their properties, calling for a more flexible and practical approach.
Stakeholders’ Input
The public hearing was presided over by the Chairman of the House Committee on Housing, Hon. Ege Olusegun Adebisi, while the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, was represented by Kayode Ogundipe.
Also in attendance were key stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing, Engr. Abdulhafis Toriola; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Housing, Esv. Ayodeji Amodu; and representatives of professional associations such as the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Association of Realtors, and the Real Estate Agents Association of Nigeria.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the new law, once passed, will mark a turning point in Lagos’ housing sector by balancing the interests of tenants and landlords while encouraging responsible property investment.
