Former Works and Housing Minister, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has urged a comprehensive review of tenancy laws across states to enforce monthly rent collections, addressing issues of housing surplus in rural areas and escalating deficits in urban centres.
Babatunde Fashola made this call during the launch of his book titled “Nigerian Public Discourse: The Interplay of Empirical Evidence and Hyperbole” in Lagos.
Expressing concern over tenants paying rent for extended periods, Fashola emphasized the need to discourage the practice of tenants committing to three years or more, citing its overwhelming impact on them.
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He proposed a reduction in the duration of rent commitments, suggesting one year or ideally six months, aligning with individuals’ monthly income cycles.
Babatunde Fashola highlighted the current housing scenario, where numerous properties remain unoccupied due to the prevailing rent collection structures.
He urged a shift towards a more tenant-friendly approach to address this issue and foster a more efficient housing market.
During his speech, Babatunde Fashola emphasized the pivotal role of accurate data in national development.
He asserted that data is the most crucial currency globally, essential for effective planning and addressing fundamental needs like food, water, shelter, and energy. He stressed the necessity of utilizing accurate data for informed decision-making and policy formulation.
The book launch also featured a panel discussion on the significance of data in development. Panelists, including Tolu Ogunlesi, Mrs Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, and Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, concurred on the importance of using data as a foundation for policies that bring tangible changes to people’s lives.
Presidential Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, representing President Bola Tinubu, and other dignitaries attended the event, showcasing broad support for Fashola’s advocacy.
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The ceremony also featured a review of the book by Opeyemi Agbaje and discussions on the role of data in shaping the nation’s future.
Fashola’s call for monthly rent payments and his emphasis on the crucial role of accurate data underscored the need for progressive reforms in the housing sector and informed decision-making for national development.
