HDAN Urges Lawmakers to Curb Soaring Rent and Agency Fees in Abuja
The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) has called on the National Assembly to introduce urgent legislation to address the rising cost of rent and agency fees in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The organization warned that unchecked price hikes are worsening housing affordability, disproportionately affecting civil servants, artisans, and middle-income households.
According to HDAN, demand for housing in Abuja has far outpaced supply due to inflation, rapid population growth, and urbanisation. As a result, rents have surged to unsustainable levels. A self-contained apartment in the city now costs up to ₦1 million annually, while a three-bedroom flat commands as much as ₦3.5 million.
In addition to rent, tenants face further financial strain from agency fees that range between 20%-25% of the annual rent, as well as caution fees and unregulated maintenance charges. HDAN noted that these extra costs are often imposed by unlicensed agents, consuming a significant share of household income and forcing families to seek cheaper housing in distant satellite towns.
Wider Economic and Social Impact
Festus Adebayo, Executive Director of HDAN, emphasized that the current situation undermines quality of life and productivity. Many workers endure long commutes from satellite communities, while others face mounting financial stress.
HDAN also cautioned that the absence of rent control measures has allowed arbitrary increases and exploitative practices, deepening inequality and fueling social problems such as homelessness and the spread of informal settlements.
Legislative and Policy Recommendations
To curb these challenges, the advocacy group urged lawmakers to priorities the passage of a Rent and Agency Control Bill. It also called for the establishment of an FCT Housing Authority to regulate rent increases, monitor agency charges, and ensure fair housing practices.
Additionally, HDAN recommended that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, provide incentives for developers to deliver affordable housing estates targeted at civil servants and low-income earners.
The group further urged policymakers to tackle the rising cost of building materials, a key driver of housing expenses, and recommended periodic oversight of housing policy implementation by the House Committee on Housing and Habitat.
Affordable Housing as a Social Imperative
HDAN stressed that affordable housing is both an economic necessity and a social justice issue. Without decisive intervention, Abuja risks pricing out essential workers and deepening its housing crisis.
The organisation, which has over 5,000 professionals across the housing and construction sector in Africa, reiterated its commitment to advancing sustainable housing solutions. It urged lawmakers and policymakers to act swiftly to protect the most vulnerable residents and restore balance to Abuja’s housing market.
