Lagos State Targets Three Million Unit Housing Deficit with 2026 Project Expansion
Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, The Commissioner For Housing Lagos State
The Lagos State Government has announced an intensified strategy for 2026 to expand the state's housing stock and address a deficit currently estimated at three million units. By accelerating the completion of existing schemes and leveraging private-sector partnerships, the administration aims to provide high-quality, affordable residential options for the city's growing population.
Ministry of Housing Lagos State has committed to delivering a substantial volume of new residential units in 2026 as part of a broader effort to tackle the state’s severe housing shortage. Speaking during a performance review in January 2026, the Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, confirmed that the government will prioritize the completion of ongoing projects and strengthen joint venture initiatives to ensure a steady supply of safe and sustainable homes.
Priority Projects and Completion Targets
Following the successful launch of the Akinsanya Sunny Ajose and Abraham Adesanya (Parcels A and B) schemes in 2025, the Ministry has identified several critical projects for completion in 2026. The administration has directed project teams to adhere to rigorous quality standards to ensure timely delivery of the following:
Sangotedo Phase II
Egan-Igando Clusters II and III
Ibeshe Phase II
Commissioner Akinderu-Fatai emphasized that these developments are central to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s "THEMES Plus" agenda, which focuses on social development and urban renewal. The government’s objective is to move beyond mere construction to creating livable, integrated communities.
Strategic Partnerships and Regulatory Oversight
To meet its ambitious targets, the state is deepening its collaboration with private developers and financial institutions. These partnerships are designed to pool resources and expertise, facilitating the execution of large-scale residential projects that the public sector cannot fund in isolation.
In addition to new construction, the state is addressing the issue of abandoned buildings. According to Abdulhafis Toriola, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing, the government will utilize the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) Law to facilitate the completion of derelict properties. This initiative serves a dual purpose: increasing the available housing inventory and improving public safety by eliminating potential havens for criminal activity.
Historical Performance and Future Outlook
The Sanwo-Olu administration has reported the delivery of over 12,000 housing units across various sites over the past six years. While this represents significant progress, the scale of the three-million-unit deficit necessitates a more aggressive pace of development. The Ministry’s focus for 2026 shifts toward meticulous planning and "exceptional execution" to ensure that public funds translate into tangible assets for residents.
Lagos State’s housing strategy for 2026 reflects a multifaceted approach combining direct government intervention, private sector synergy, and regulatory enforcement. By targeting abandoned structures and fast-tracking primary construction sites, the state aims to create a more resilient property market. For investors and residents alike, the success of these initiatives will depend on the Ministry’s ability to maintain its projected timelines and uphold stringent construction standards amidst evolving macroeconomic conditions.
