Kaduna, Nigeria – July 29
Kaduna residents are grappling with a staggering 150% surge in rental prices, raising fears of a full-blown housing crisis. The sharp increase comes days after Governor Uba Sani commissioned the Qatar Sanabil Project, a housing initiative designed to support victims of banditry, leaving many to question the disconnect between new developments and affordability.
A Tale of Two Realities
Social media images shared by Daily Trust showcase modern homes from Phase 1 of the Qatar Sanabil Project, handed over on July 24, 2025. The project, a partnership with Qatar Charity, includes homes, schools, and clinics for displaced families. Governor Sani described it as a “bold gesture of solidarity,” with Phase 2 already planned.
However, just days later, tenants across neighborhoods like Unguwan Rimi, Sabon Tasha, Narayi, and Kakuri reported rent increases as high as 150%.
“I was paying ₦350,000 annually for my apartment. Now my landlord demands ₦900,000. This is unjust,” said Mubarak Aliyu of Unguwan Rimi.
Economic Pressures Fuel the Crisis
Landlords cite rising costs as justification, with building materials up 40% since 2023 and Nigeria’s inflation rate peaking at 28.9% in December 2023 (NBS data).
“Maintenance costs have skyrocketed. We are struggling too,” said landlord Umar Maigida. “But there must be compassion in adjusting rents.”
Tenants argue the hikes are arbitrary. “Landlords raise rents without fixing anything—just wanting more money,” said Musa Baban Fati of Unguwan Dosa. Analysts suggest the increases may not fully align with economic pressures, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income tenants.
Call for Regulation
Kaduna’s lack of a tenancy law leaves residents unprotected. Unlike Lagos State, which enacted a Tenancy Law in 2011 to regulate rent increases, Kaduna relies on informal agreements.
“We need legislation to cap rent hikes and create mediation frameworks,” said legal expert Gloria Sani. “This is crucial to balancing landlord and tenant rights.”
Community voices are urging Governor Sani to explore flexible rent payments.
“Even school fees are paid in installments. Why not rent?” suggested resident Hamid Baba of Kabala.
A Broader Context
The Kaduna housing dilemma reflects a nationwide affordability crisis. Historical trends in unregulated housing markets show that without intervention, new developments often drive up costs, displacing low- and middle-income earners.
Governor Sani’s administration has not yet commented on the rent hike complaints, but public pressure is mounting for a policy response to prevent further hardship.
