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…Partners ERCAAN to fight fraudulent estate agents
By Maduka Nweke, [email protected]
The Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, has called on companies collaborating with the state to intensify efforts and ensure that all partnership projects meet the highest standards of quality and delivery deadlines.
The Commissioner also stated that the state seeks more partners, especially for low-income earners, stressing that the incentives and commitment of the administration of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu have been repeatedly demonstrated.
Speaking at the recent commissioning of Abraham Adesanya Housing Estate, he noted that the official handover of 233 modern home units, delivered through a successful Public–Private Partnership between the Lagos state government and Urban Shelter Limited, represents a welcome development.
According to him, the partnership began in 2019, with the overarching vision to maximise the use of land and existing infrastructure to provide more home units within Abraham Adesanya Housing Estate. He commended Urban Shelter for their professionalism, adherence to standards, and dedication during project execution. He also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Housing team, whose oversight, diligence, and technical expertise ensured the project’s success. The administration remains firmly committed to expanding access to decent housing across all income levels. Through ongoing and upcoming projects, reforms, and partnerships, the State aims to unlock more opportunities, promote homeownership, and deliver developments that are safe, inclusive, and future-ready.
In appreciation of the Ministry of Housing and its team, the Governor noted that the collaboration with Urban Shelter has produced 233 units of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, terraces, and semi-detached homes within Abraham Adesanya Housing Estate Parcels A and B. He highlighted that the focus on increasing modern housing stock continues, citing the recent delivery of 420 apartment units at Ajara in Badagry. So far, approximately 11,000 home units have been generated for low-, medium-, and high-income earners across the State over the past six years.
The Governor emphasised that Lagos, as the epicenter of Nigeria’s urbanisation with a rapidly growing population, requires more private-sector-led solutions in housing development. Demand continues to outpace supply, affecting all social classes. Guided by the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, the administration has implemented several initiatives to address this imbalance, aiming to make Lagos a 21st-century economy and a model megacity with decent homes for all.
One key strategy is encouraging private-sector participation in housing delivery. The State provides land as equity, while partners contribute financing and technical expertise. All projects are supervised by technical teams to ensure high standards. The government does not simply provide homes; it delivers the infrastructure that makes communities livable, thriving, and productive. Real estate development is not just about bricks and walls, it drives economic activity and fosters communal living.
As part of ongoing interventions, the Governor invited private-sector stakeholders and investors to help accelerate housing development across the State and reduce the gap in homeownership. The administration has successfully delivered joint-venture projects supported by flexible approval processes, including a 40% rebate on all permits such as EIA, TIA, and physical planning permits. Tax incentives and other business support are provided to encourage investment.
However, the Governor also expressed concern over joint-venture partners who fail to meet deadlines. Delays leave the State with incomplete housing schemes and slow progress toward housing targets. Completing all ongoing projects is a key strategy for increasing housing stock. Any project not completed within the agreed timeframe or failing to meet required standards is currently under review for possible revocation.
Meanwhile, the LASG has said it is partnering with the Estate, Rent and Commission Agents Association of Nigeria (ERCAAN) to root out fraudulent estate agents in the state.
Abdulatiff Gbolahon Toriola, Permanent Secretary, Lagos Ministry of Housing revealed this during a meeting with ERCAAN recently.
He assured ERCAAN of the government’s support in flushing out quack agents who are tarnishing the industry’s image.
During a meeting, Toriola advised the association to first discipline its members before targeting non-members. ERCAAN National President, Godwin Alenkhe, in his response said that the association was ready to take action, having established a compliance and enforcement body.
The ERCAAN delegation, including National General Secretary, Mr. Ibirogba and Conference 2025 Chairman Mr. Godwin Demech, also met with Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Barakat Odunuga Bakare to discuss the initiatives and modalities.
