LOCAL

LAGOS SET TO IMPLEMENT MONTHLY RENT PAYMENT SCHEME
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to roll out monthly and quarterly rent payment options to ease the financial burden on residents, particularly those with low incomes.
This was revealed on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing commemorating Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second year in office.
Akinderu-Fatai explained that the proposed initiative is part of the state’s broader efforts to enhance access to affordable housing.
He also referenced the earlier rent-to-own programme, which allows participants to pay a 5% initial deposit and spread the remaining cost over a 10-year period.
“That initiative was well-received, and its success encouraged us to explore new ways to reduce the pressure of yearly rent payment,” he said.
He pointed out that annual rent payments pose a challenge for many residents, and the new system is designed to offer much-needed relief.
“We believe that monthly or quarterly payment options will give people more breathing space and reduce the stress associated with sourcing lump sums,” he added.
He added that the government is presently engaging with landlords, developers, and other key stakeholders to address possible challenges surrounding enforcement and payment mechanisms ahead of the initiative’s implementation.
“Of course, there are issues to resolve — things like landlord cooperation, payment tracking, and enforcement. But discussions are ongoing, and we are listening to all sides,” he said.
He disclosed that a pilot phase of the initiative is being prepared for rollout in selected parts of the state.
“This is not just policy on paper. We are making real progress. We know what this means for many families, and we are determined to make it happen,” he stated.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board