By: Ubong Usoro
Housing is one of the most fundamental human needs, yet it remains a major challenge in many developing countries like Nigeria. The percentage of people without proper housing continues to rise daily. On the streets of Abuja, homeless people without shelter are still a common sight.
Getting accommodation in urban cities like Abuja is very costly and time-consuming. You have to navigate agents, caretakers, and landlords before securing a place to stay. The cost of renting an apartment in prime areas such as Asokoro, Wuse, and Maitama is beyond the reach of most civil servants and low-income earners. As a result, many people are relocating to the suburbs, where rents are relatively cheaper—though still not affordable for many. These people endure long daily commutes to work in the city center.
This scramble for housing has led to the emergence of many largely unplanned settlements, contributing to environmental and social degradation.
Lugbe is the urban fringe of Abuja. Its proximity to town makes it a preferred location for low- and middle-income earners. However, the ongoing inflation in the country has further worsened the housing crisis in Lugbe, making it difficult for many residents to afford rent. Houseowners have increased prices astronomically, while tenants are struggling to pay rent.
Mrs. Aisha Nuhu, a civil servant and homeowner, revealed that in 2022, she rented out her two-bedroom apartment for ₦500,000. However, the same apartment now costs ₦1.2 million.
“You cannot blame us as houseowners for increasing rents,” she said. “A bag of cement now sells for ₦12,000, renovation is costly, and we pass the cost to the tenants.”
Taiwo Ojo, a middle-aged tenant in a one-bedroom apartment, expressed his frustration, stating that the rising cost of living is alarming. With landlords continuously increasing rent, the situation is becoming unbearable.
“Last year, I paid ₦300,000 for my one-bedroom apartment, and this year I am asked to pay ₦500,000. How much am I earning?”
The situation is frightening. The government must wake up to its responsibility. Housing is not a privilege but a fundamental right. Urgent measures should be put in place to tackle inflation and make housing more affordable for the average Nigerian.
