Lagos Ministry of Housing Urges Estate Dwellers to Own, Maintain Properties

Authorities in Lagos State have implored occupants of its various housing developments to assume greater responsibility for the upkeep of their surroundings, a move aimed at safeguarding infrastructure, boosting security, and preserving property values.

Mr. Abdulhafis Toriola, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos Ministry of Housing, conveyed this message during the ministry's routine monthly stakeholders' forum. The recent gathering, hosted at the Millennium Housing Estate in Agbado-Ijaiye, Ojokoro, on Saturday, serves as a platform to foster collaboration between the government and residents, address emerging issues, and gather feedback for enhanced estate administration.

"Wherever you reside, it is crucial to be proactive and embrace ownership to ensure your estate retains its value," Toriola stated. He urged residents to address minor issues they observe and are capable of fixing, emphasizing that government intervention would be provided for more significant concerns. "You do not have to wait for government to fix everything," he added.

While commending residents for their existing maintenance efforts, the Permanent Secretary stressed the importance of adhering to property allocation terms and conditions. He highlighted insurance premiums as a vital protective measure for both residents and government assets. Toriola also warned that defaulters of land use charges and other statutory obligations would face legal action.

He further explained that continuous stakeholder engagements have been instrumental in informing and implementing improvements across government housing estates. Regarding older estates, Toriola confirmed that urban renewal projects are underway, including the redevelopment of the historic Jakande Estate in Lekki, following thorough integrity assessments.

Earlier in the event, Mrs. Olukemi Fosude, the Director of the Estate Department within the ministry, clarified that the engagement aims to educate residents on government housing policies, pinpoint challenges, and strengthen partnerships for efficient estate management. She reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to maintaining infrastructure, coordinating facility services, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing service charges, and cultivating sustainable communities.

To enhance transparency and accountability in service charge payments, Fosude announced the introduction of a standardized demand notice and a unique payment code for each allottee. She reminded residents of their responsibilities, including timely payment of service charges and insurance, and cautioned against unauthorized constructions, illegal commercial operations, indiscriminate waste disposal, and other violations of estate regulations. She also encouraged participation in the state's reinstated monthly environmental sanitation exercises to promote hygiene, mitigate flooding, and protect property values.

Speaking on behalf of the residents, Mr. Chris Otabo, the Vice-Chairman of Millennium Housing Estate, Agbado-Ijaiye, lauded the ministry for boosting security through perimeter fencing and for beautification efforts. However, he appealed for improved drainage systems, repairs of dilapidated roads, and the installation of more streetlights to further enhance safety.

Similarly, Mr. Jamil Onosoya, Chairman of Millennium Housing Estate, Okoba, commended the ministry for rehabilitating residential blocks and upgrading infrastructure across various government estates. He requested the completion of an abandoned water project within his estate and the provision of additional recreational facilities and smart security infrastructure.

Officials from various state agencies, including the Lagos Waste Management Authority, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Safety Commission, Lagos State Health Management Agency, Lagos State Mortgage Board, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, were present at the event. They provided residents with crucial information on waste management, fire safety, insurance, security, and environmental sustainability.