Sanwo-Olu's Government Expands Housing Push with New Units and Flexible Rent Plans

The Lagos State Government has confirmed the successful delivery of 9,970 housing units across various parts of the state over the past six years, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle housing deficits and improve living standards. This update was disclosed during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held on Tuesday at Alausa, Ikeja, marking the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.

The State Commissioner for Housing, Mr Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, highlighted the administration’s significant achievements in residential development, noting that numerous housing projects have been completed in key locations.

“We have commissioned and handed over 18 housing estates across strategic locations including Sangotedo, Igbogbo, Epe, Odo-Onosa Ayandelu, Badagry, and Igando,” he said.

Looking ahead, Akinderu-Fatai revealed that 4,052 additional housing units are under active construction, with a further 2,224 units in the design and planning stages. These are projected for completion and handover between the end of 2025 and early 2026.

In explaining how these projects are being financed, the commissioner outlined the diverse funding models in use. These include direct government allocations, collaborative ventures with private developers, and broader public-private partnerships. Among the standout initiatives is the Rent-To-Own scheme administered by the Lagos State Mortgage Board, which aims to make home ownership more accessible.

“So far, over 20,000 Lagosians have benefited from the Rent-To-Own scheme, and 212 of them have completed payment and are now proud homeowners,” he stated.

This scheme enables residents to acquire homes through manageable monthly instalments rather than large upfront payments, significantly reducing financial barriers.

Sanwo-Olu's Government Expands Housing Push with New Units and Flexible Rent Plans

Akinderu-Fatai stressed that the state’s housing drive is not merely focused on numbers, but on delivering sustainable, quality homes.

“It is not just about numbers. We are making sure that the homes we deliver are livable, safe, and built to last. All our estates are being developed with basic infrastructure and amenities to ensure a good quality of life,” he said.

Housing continues to be a cornerstone of the Sanwo-Olu administration’s THEMES+ Agenda, which prioritises key development areas such as Transportation, Health, Education, Economic Growth, Entertainment, and Security.

However, the commissioner acknowledged the challenges posed by rising construction costs, largely driven by inflation and exchange rate instability. He noted that the government is addressing these through local material sourcing and creative financing approaches.

“We know the need is great, and we are doing everything possible to meet it. No part of Lagos will be left behind,” he added.

In a bid to ease housing affordability, especially for low-income residents, Akinderu-Fatai also announced that the state is close to rolling out a monthly and quarterly rent payment system. This initiative is intended to offer relief to tenants who struggle under the current annual rent model.

“We believe that monthly or quarterly payment options will give people more breathing space and reduce the stress associated with sourcing lump sums,” Akinderu-Fatai added.

He revealed that discussions are ongoing with landlords, property developers, and other real estate stakeholders to navigate practical hurdles such as enforcement, tracking payments, and securing landlord cooperation.

“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 concluded by assuring the public that this flexible rent scheme is beyond the planning stage, with pilot programmes already in development. The government, he said, recognises the profound impact such measures would have on families and is committed to seeing them through.