Relief for Nigerians as Dangote cuts cooking gas Price to ₦760/kg
In a move that could transform Nigeria’s domestic energy market, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has once again reduced the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), also known as cooking gas.
The new ex-depot price now stands at ₦760 per kilogram, down from ₦810 last week.
This marks the refinery’s second major price cut in less than a month, and it continues to position Dangote as the leading driver of affordability in the gas sector.
Industry watchers say the move will bring much-needed relief to millions of households struggling with rising living costs and inflation.
Compared to other major suppliers, Dangote’s price stands far lower. Matrix and Ardova depots currently sell at ₦920 per kilogram, while A.Y.M Shafa and NIPCO are at ₦910 per kilogram.
Stockgap Depot, one of the biggest players in the market, sells for as high as ₦950 per kilogram.
The price gap ranging from ₦150 to ₦190 per kilogram—highlights Dangote’s strong market influence and its growing role in stabilizing Nigeria’s energy prices.
Experts in the petroleum and energy sector have described the refinery’s strategy as a deliberate attempt to reshape market dynamics and discourage unnecessary price hikes by other depots.
By offering cheaper LPG, Dangote is believed to be setting a new benchmark that could force competitors to reduce their prices and make gas more accessible to Nigerian consumers.
Industry analysts also say that the refinery’s latest move aligns with its broader mission to boost domestic energy supply, reduce dependence on imports, and support the federal government’s agenda for clean energy transition.
Many Nigerians have welcomed the development, expressing hope that the reduction will reflect at the retail level, especially in local markets where consumers often face inflated prices.
If sustained, the Dangote Refinery’s consistent price adjustments could not only stabilize the cooking gas market but also encourage more households to switch from firewood and charcoal to cleaner energy sources helping to protect the environment and improve public health.
With cooking gas prices at record highs, households are seeking temporary alternatives, and below are a few options:
Electric cookers and induction stoves (where the power supply is reliable)
Kerosene stoves, though less efficient and with safety risks
Biogas or solar-powered cookers, where available
Charcoal and firewood, though these should be used cautiously due to health and environmental concerns
Despite the current hardship, the situation is expected to stabilise soon. NNPC’s Bayo Ojulari has assured Nigerians that the spike is temporary and prices will ease in the coming weeks as distribution normalises and loading resumes fully.
Now that things have normalised, prices should return to what they were before the strike.
With the strike over and refineries resuming normal operations, consumers can expect to see a gradual drop in prices, hopefully returning to the usual price of ₦1,200 per kg.
In recent days, Nigerians have been hit hard by a surge in the cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), also known as cooking gas. Across major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, prices have surged to between ₦2,500 and ₦3,600 per kilogram, meaning that refilling a 12.5kg cylinder now costs as much as ₦26,000.
The increase has given many households one more reason to be frustrated. Long queues are forming at filling stations and corner shops, and it's not for fuel, it's for cooking gas! Families are now turning to charcoal, kerosene, or even firewood as alternatives.
So, what exactly is driving this sudden surge in gas prices and scarcity?
Why Cooking Gas Is Scarce and Expensive in Nigeria Right Now
1. The PENGASSAN Strike Disrupted Supply Chains The biggest trigger for the spike was the recent industrial action by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). The strike, which began over the dismissal of Nigerian workers at the Dangote Refinery, halted loading and distribution of LPG across the country for several days.
This created a bottleneck in supply lines, causing an “artificial scarcity,” according to NNPC’s Group CEO, Bayo Ojulari. Even after the strike was suspended on October 1 following government intervention, it takes time for supply and distribution to fully normalise, resulting in the temporary price surge seen nationwide. Ojulari explained:
"The increase you saw was relatively artificial because, for the period of the strike, movements and loading were delayed by about two to three days. As things normalise, it takes a while for distribution to catch up again."
2. Opportunistic Retailers Exploited the Crisis While the supply disruption played a part, market opportunism worsened the situation. Some retailers and middlemen reportedly hiked prices deliberately to profit from public panic. Ojulari criticised this behaviour, saying many dealers with existing reserves increased prices during the shortfall rather than selling at standard rates. He said:
"As you know, in Nigeria, people take the opportunity. With that delay, some of the people who had existing reserves decided to increase prices."
3. Local Refinery Maintenance and Distribution Delays
Industry insiders, including the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM), confirmed that internal maintenance activities at the Dangote Refinery also contributed to the temporary disruption.
Vessel berthing delays at Lagos terminals slowed offloading and distribution, although other regions like Port Harcourt were less affected due to steady supply from the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG). These logistical hiccups added pressure to an already strained system, particularly in the Southwest, where demand is highest.
4. Poor Supply Chain Resilience Experts point out that Nigeria’s domestic gas supply network remains fragile, making it vulnerable to shocks such as strikes, maintenance shutdowns, or weather disruptions. Although local production has improved, the country’s distribution infrastructure and storage capacity are still inadequate.
Dr. Ayodele Oni, an energy law expert, noted that despite higher upstream gas output, Nigeria continues to face recurring shortages and sudden price surges, and these are symptoms of systemic weakness in the gas market structure.
5. Panic Buying and Limited Alternatives
As prices climbed, panic buying set in. Many households rushed to refill their cylinders in fear of further increases, putting additional pressure on limited supplies. In major cities, long queues at gas plants became common, while smaller retailers sold at inflated prices.
This scarcity has forced some Nigerians to revert to unsafe cooking alternatives like charcoal and firewood, which are harmful to their health.
Nobel Prizes 2025: What they are, when the awards are announced
Nobel Prize for medicine announced on Monday, followed by five other prizes to be declared over the next week.
The Nobel Prizes 2025 have officially kicked off with the first award for physiology or medicine announced, setting the stage for a week of global anticipation.
Scientists Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell and Shimon Sakaguchi on Monday were awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine for “their discoveries concerning peripheral immune tolerance”.
The full schedule, spanning through October 13, maps out a rapid succession of announcements: medicine, followed by physics, chemistry, literature, peace and finally the economics prize.
Here are details of the schedule and what to expect from this year’s Nobel Prizes:
What is the Nobel Prize?
The Nobel Prizes are the most prestigious international awards, established by the will of Alfred Nobel, a Swedish chemist, engineer and industrialist best known for discovering dynamite.
In his 1895 will, Nobel left the bulk of his fortune to fund the annual prizes, recognising those who “have conferred the greatest benefit to humankind” in the preceding year.
The first Nobel Prizes were awarded in 1901 for outstanding achievement in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and peace.
In 1968, Sweden’s central bank, Sveriges Riksbank, established the Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, expanding the categories to six.
Who awards the Nobel Prizes, and how much is the prize money?
The prizes are awarded by different institutions: the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences (for physics, chemistry and economics), the Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institutet (for medicine), the Swedish Academy (for literature) and the Norwegian Nobel Committee (for peace).
Each laureate receives a gold medal, a diploma and a cash award funded by the Nobel Foundation, which manages Nobel’s endowment. This year’s prizes amount to 11 million Swedish kronor ($1.2m) each.
The prizes are formally presented on December 10, the anniversary of Nobel’s death in 1896.
What is this year’s Nobel Prizes schedule?
The announcements began on Monday and will end a week later on October 13.
Monday, October 6: physiology or medicine
Announced by the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet, Wallenbergsalen, Nobel Forum, Solna, near Stockholm
Tuesday, October 7: physics
Announced by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Stockholm
Wednesday, October 8: chemistry
Announced by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Stockholm
Thursday, October 9: literature
Announced by the Swedish Academy, Stockholm
Friday, October 10: peace
Announced at the Norwegian Nobel Institute, Oslo, by the chairperson of the Norwegian Nobel Committee
Monday, October 13: economics
Announced by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Stockholm
How is a person nominated for the prize?
The nomination process is designed to preserve secrecy and independence. Each year, the Nobel committees invite selected experts, past winners and academics to submit nominations by January 31.
The nominations are not made public, and committee members are forbidden from discussing their decisions for 50 years. Only nominators may choose to reveal their own submissions.
A person cannot nominate themselves, but they can be nominated multiple times by others.
After the deadline, committees spend months reviewing hundreds of entries, consulting specialists and narrowing the list to a few candidates.
Each prize has its own rhythm. The Peace Prize, which often recognises work from the past year, tends to be responsive to current global events.
The science prizes usually take decades to confirm after judges observe that discoveries have stood the test of time and can gauge their impact.
Why is the Nobel Peace Prize being watched closely this year?
The world is fraught with conflict, including an ongoing genocide in Gaza, a war in Ukraine, and civil wars and political repression in numerous countries.
However, the headlines and debates about this year’s Nobel Peace Prize are rather outsized and focused on United States President Donald Trump for his relentless self-promotion – at times, claiming to deserve it for “ending seven wars”.
At the United Nations, Trump told delegates, “Everyone says that I should get the Nobel Peace Prize.” On Tuesday, Trump reiterated that he “deserved” to win the prize for the possibility of ending an eighth war, Israel’s two-year-long war on Gaza.
However, experts have noted that his chances are slim. The Norwegian Nobel Committee typically focuses on the durability of peace, the promotion of international fraternity and the quiet work of institutions that strengthen those goals, experts argued.
Among this year’s nominations for Trump were those from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Pakistan’s government although both were made after the deadline for the 2025 award.
What happens at the Nobel Prize ceremony?
Every year, the Nobel Prizes are formally awarded in twin ceremonies held in Stockholm and Oslo.
The Stockholm ceremony is attended by Sweden’s royal family, and the laureates in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and economic sciences receive their medals and diplomas from the king.
In Oslo, the Nobel Peace Prize is presented by the chairperson of the Norwegian Nobel Committee at the Oslo City Hall, honouring Nobel’s wish that the Peace Prize be awarded in Norway.
Laureates are individually called to the stage, where they receive the Nobel medal, diploma and the monetary award. The ceremony also features speeches by committee chairpeople highlighting the significance of the discoveries and contributions.
The event is broadcast worldwide and followed by a Nobel Banquet at Stockholm’s City Hall for more than 1,000 guests, including royalty, diplomats, scientists and past laureates.
Who won these prizes last year? Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun were awarded the 2024 prize for medicine for discovering microRNAs, tiny RNA molecules that regulate gene expression after transcription.
In physics, John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton received the prize for research that laid the theoretical and computational foundations of modern machine learning and artificial neural networks. While Hopfield’s models in the 1980s linked neuroscience and computation, Hinton’s work revolutionised deep learning, enabling advances in image recognition, natural language processing and artificial intelligence systems.
In chemistry, the prize was shared by David Baker, Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for breakthroughs in predicting and designing protein structures using computational models. Baker was honoured for developing algorithms that enable scientists to design new proteins with specific functions while Hassabis and Jumper from Google’s DeepMind were recognised for creating AlphaFold, the AI system that predicted nearly all known protein structures with unprecedented accuracy.
In the literature category, the prize went to Han Kang, a South Korean novelist known for her haunting explorations of violence, identity and collective memory. Best known internationally for the novels The Vegetarian and Human Acts, Han was cited “for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life”.
In the peace category, the prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organisations, honouring its decades-long campaign to abolish nuclear weapons and preserve the testimonies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki survivors.
In economic sciences, Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson shared the prize for their analysis of how institutions shape long-term economic growth and inequality. Their collaborative research, including the seminal work Why Nations Fail, demonstrated that inclusive political and economic institutions rather than geography or culture determine prosperity.
Immune system breakthrough wins Nobel medicine prize for US, Japan scientists
STOCKHOLM, Oct 6 (Reuters) - American scientists Mary Brunkow and Fred Ramsdell and Shimon Sakaguchi from Japan won the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine on Monday for work shedding light on how the immune system spares healthy cells, creating openings for possible new autoimmune disease and cancer treatments.
Their discoveries relate to peripheral immune tolerance, or "how we keep our immune system under control so we can fight all imaginable microbes and still avoid autoimmune disease", said Marie Wahren-Herlenius, a rheumatology professor at Sweden's Karolinska Institute, the awarding body.
The institute said all three laureates brought to the fore so-called regulatory T cells, a class of white blood cells that act as the immune system's security guards that keep immune cells from attacking our own body.
RESEARCH INTO WHAT STOPS IMMUNE SYSTEM ATTACKING ITSELF
Brunkow, who found out she had won after being woken by her dog barking at a news photographer on the front porch of her Seattle home, said she, Ramsdell and their colleagues had isolated a gene called FOXP3 that could be used as a marker for the cells.
"They're rare, but powerful, and they're critical for sort of dampening an immune response," she said in an interview, describing the cells as a braking system that prevents the body's immune system from tipping over into attacking itself.
Signs of a renewed reconciliation between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his political mentor, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, appear to be emerging, following a high-level meeting of key political stakeholders in Port Harcourt.
The closed-door meeting, held on Saturday night, brought together Fubara, Wike, members of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Council, the leadership of the state House of Assembly, and several prominent politicians loyal to the FCT Minister, including members of the Rivers National Assembly caucus.
Although details remained sketchy as of the time of filing this report, sources said the meeting was convened at the instance of the Chairman of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba.
However, concerns have surfaced over the absence of Fubara’s loyalists, marking the second time such a peace gathering was reportedly dominated by Wike’s camp.
Governor Fubara returned to office on September 18, following the suspension of the six-month emergency rule in the state and the exit of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), who served as State Administrator under President Bola Tinubu.
Since his reinstatement, the governor has dissolved the Rivers State Pensions Board and the state Microfinance Agency, both reconstituted during Ibas’s administration.
Among those present at the Saturday meeting were Wike, Fubara, Alabraba, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol, House Leader, Major Jack, and Senate caucus leader, Senator Barry Mpigi.
Also in attendance were former and serving lawmakers, including Senators Magnus Abe, George Sekibo, Olaka Nwogu, Wilson Ake, Felix Nwaeke (Tai/Oyigbo Federal Constituency), and Kelechi Nwogu (Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency).
Other attendees included former NBA President Onueze Okocha (SAN); elder statesman and monarch Chief Sergent Awuse; former Attorneys-General Prof. Zacchaeus Adangor (SAN), Frank Owhor, Ken Chikere, and Worgu Boms; APC Deputy National Vice Chairman (South-South) Chief Victor Giadom; Rivers PDP Chairman Chief Chukwuemeka Aaron; and former Environment Minister Udi Odum.
Also present were Elder Chidi Wihioka, Dr. Chinyere Igwe, Pro-Chancellor, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Ikuinyi Ibani; Executive Director, Finance and Administration, NDDC, Chief Boma Iyaye;, Chief Marcus Nle Eji, Prof. Ogiri, Chief Chukwuemeka Woke, Dr. Sampson Parker, Dr. Fred Kpakol, and Chief Felix Obuah, among others.
Although the exact agenda was not disclosed, sources close to the meeting said it focused on reconciling Wike’s loyalists with Governor Fubara and fostering cooperation between both camps.
Recall that on September 19, when Fubara returned to the state after his reinstatement, neither members of the State Assembly, local government chairmen, nor known Wike loyalists were at the Port Harcourt International Airport to receive him.
Similarly, during the Independence Thanksgiving Service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Garrison, last Sunday, most of the figures who attended Saturday’s meeting were noticeably absent.
Last week, the governor officially sacked all commissioners and public office holders affected by the Supreme Court judgment that recognised Martin Amaewhule as the authentic Speaker of the State Assembly.
The judgment invalidated the appointments of those screened by the faction led by Victor Oko-Jumbo, a Fubara ally.
A Fubara loyalist, who spoke to The PUNCH on condition of anonymity, expressed reservations about the meeting, describing it as one-sided.
“It’s like what happened during the emergency rule when we saw pictures of the governor, the FCT Minister, and Martin Amaewhule with President Tinubu in Aso Rock claiming reconciliation,” the source said.“Now again, it’s the same faces, known loyalists of the FCT Minister. Where are elders like Chief Rufus Ada-George, Dr. Gabriel Toby, or High Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, who stood by the governor? If this is reconciliation, it should be sincere and inclusive.”
However, a Wike loyalist, who also pleaded anonymity, defended the meeting, insisting it was meant to “bring the governor back to his political roots.”
“Politics is about loyalty. What you’re seeing is the governor returning to his original family. These are the same people who stood with Wike when he nominated Fubara in 2023. Many of those now complaining were not even part of the process.”
Following what appeared to be a harmonisation meeting, sources hinted that Governor Fubara may soon submit a list of commissioner-nominees to the Rivers State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.
Meanwhile, the Rivers Peace Initiative has appealed for patience and trust in the ongoing peace efforts, describing them as a critical step toward lasting stability.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday, the group’s convener, Obinna Ebogidi, lauded the renewed dialogue among political and community leaders, urging all parties to protect rather than politicise the reconciliation process.
“Peacebuilding is a process that begins in phases, building confidence, establishing mutual respect, and preparing the ground for broader participation,” the statement read.
“What matters most is that the conversation has started again, and that leaders are finding the courage to meet, talk, and seek common ground.”
Ebogidi urged stakeholders, political actors, and citizens to exercise restraint, adding:
“No one wins in a divided Rivers State. Everyone stands to gain from a peaceful, stable, and prosperous state where governance and development can thrive again,”he said.
Some retired senior military officers have backed the call by a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd), for the declaration of a state of emergency to effectively address the Boko Haram insurgency.
In his new book, ‘Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum,’ Irabor argued that the absence of political will had hindered Nigeria’s response to the insurgency, stressing that an emergency proclamation backed by the National Assembly would mobilise all elements of national power towards ending the war.
Irabor, who served as the CDS under the Buhari administration, wrote, “The government had not yet mustered the political will and instruments to declare a war against Boko Haram. With an emergency proclamation, backed by the National Assembly, there will be greater and more focused attention by the government to galvanise all the elements of national power towards the war.
“It should be noted that strategy deals with the aggregate of the elements of national power. These include economic, political, social, diplomatic, information, and military.
‘’The political authority stands at the apex. The success at the tactical and operational levels will never translate to victory if there is failure at the strategic level. Tactical operations alone rarely bring about the desired outcome in political situations.”
Despite being degraded by the military following the killing of many of its top commanders and the arrest of hundreds of its foot soldiers, Boko Haram’s attacks in the North have intensified recently, causing widespread destruction and displacement.
Last week, the group seized the border town of Kirawa in Borno State, forcing thousands to flee to neighbouring Cameroon.
The attack led to the destruction of a military barracks, dozens of homes, and the palace of the district head. Over 5,000 people reportedly fled to Cameroon due to the recent attacks.
Boko Haram fighters also stormed an army base in Borno State, killing four soldiers and setting military equipment on fire. A coordinated attack on security formations in Banki was repelled by joint security forces, with one police constable sustaining minor injuries.
Governor Babagana Zulum has called for increased military presence in border communities, citing the need for adequate security.
More than 2.2 million people remain internally displaced in Nigeria.
The group’s ability to launch coordinated attacks has stretched security forces thin.
The humanitarian impact of the attacks continues to worsen, with many communities left without access to necessities.
Commenting on Irabor’s proposal, Brigadier General Peter Aro (retd.) described it as apt and borne out of deep operational and strategic experience.
He said a properly declared and legislatively backed state of emergency would give coherence and urgency to the fight against insurgency.
Aro noted, “General Lucky Irabor’s position is both apt and deeply informed by experience. Having served at the operational, strategic, and geo-strategic levels, he speaks with the authority of someone who truly knows his terrain.
“But it must be a genuine state of emergency — not the kind where governors and local government chairmen still operate as if it were business as usual. When politics steps aside and security takes full command, coordination improves, resources flow faster, and the chain of authority becomes clear. Such an approach, free from political interference, would give the military and other agencies the freedom to act with precision and integrity.”
Also supporting Irabor’s position, retired Major General Dayo Olukoju said while a state of emergency was necessary, it should be complemented by a broader, multilateral approach that addresses the root causes of terrorism.
Olukoju argued, “I agree with him. But like I do say, a multilateral approach should be added to it. I was in Maiduguri when we captured one of them, and the terrorist was unrepentant. We have the elite, traditional, spiritual, and military leaders — all of them have roles to play.
“The root causes are there — have we been able to look into them? Those causes include issues of freedom, identity, among others. If these things are not looked into, I hope we don’t have a resurgence. I am not saying the state of emergency can’t work — it’s perfect — but we can go further to do what I have earlier said.”
Col. Saka Folusho (retd.) also said there was nothing wrong in declaring a state of emergency on insecurity.
He, however, warned that alone would not solve Nigeria’s security problems unless the authorities tackle the illicit trade in arms and ammunition sustaining the violence.
“The issue at hand — which is the state of emergency — yes, it’s okay. There’s nothing wrong, but there are some things we have not been addressing. For you to decide to sell ammunition, it means there is a lot of interest you are getting from the other side you are selling to. If somebody decides to sell what is supposed to be used to defend himself, that’s like the person wants to commit suicide,” Folusho said.
He urged that commanders be given clear responsibility and that soldiers be properly equipped and not underpaid. “When you are paying somebody N50,000, you are not giving them all the equipment to operate.”
He also noted that the recent moves by the Nigerian Army to boost local production and capabilities are welcome, but called for more sustained effort.
Lending its voice, the Northern Elders Forum reiterated its demand for a state of emergency on insecurity in the northern part of the country.
The spokesperson for the forum, Prof. Abubakar Jiddere, in an interview with one of our correspondents, said, “In one of our press releases, we called for this. For the second time, we called for it twice. So, it is important for now that the government should declare a state of emergency on security.
“That does not mean suspending any government or doing any other thing. But rather by massively deploying security agencies. The police, the military, and all the armed, all armed policemen and then take very serious action.
Anger as suspected herdsmen kill Enugu youth “Areas that are prone to serious crisis, like Zamfara, Katsina, Niger, Kwara, Benue and in fact, Borno, where Boko Haram has been operating.
“So, until the Federal Government takes serious action and deploys massive security personnel, this issue will continue to be. It’s a matter of national emergency. National emergency requires declaration of a state of emergency on insecurity in Nigeria, which will require deployment of heavy police forces.”
The Federal Government could not be reached for comment on Irabor’s proposal. The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, promised to respond, but he had yet to do so as of the time of filing this report.
The Borno state Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, said Irabor is entitled to his opinion on the declaration of a state of emergency on insecurity.
‘’He is entitled to his opinion; if you want further clarification, ask him. We have nothing to say about that,” Tar said
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives member representing Demsa, Numan and Lamurde federal constituency, Adamawa State, Kwamoti Laori, has said that only state policing can address insecurity in Nigeria.
Speaking to The PUNCH in Yola, the Peoples Democratic Party federal lawmaker said that state police stand out as the best solution to the country’s insecurity, pointing out that it was experimented with in the 60s and proved effective.
“In the 60s, we had state police in my area, Numan, called Friday police because they were working only on market days to assist the federal police to control crime on market days.
“When people with criminal intentions see the Friday police, they are afraid because the Friday police know them by name, their houses, so if they do anything, they can be traced and arrested. So, there was fear of committing a crime,” he said.
On how to manage the state police without politicians abusing the initiative, he said the law establishing state police should empower communities to nominate people the recruits.
“The reason is that they know the criminals in their communities, so they will not nominate such youth; everyone recruited will not be posted to another community, it will be his area where he knows everyone.”
In a related development, the African Democratic Congress, ADC, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over what it described as his administration’s insensitivity to the worsening insecurity across the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday via X by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused the President of neglecting his constitutional responsibility as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces while insecurity continues to escalate nationwide.
The party condemned Tinubu’s frequent attendance at social and political events amid rising attacks and killings, describing it as “unacceptable and irresponsible.”
Abdullahi said nine local government areas in Kwara State, once known for peace, were recently attacked by armed bandits, with residents allegedly forced to provide food, drinks, money, and other items as ransom.
He added that a similar attack occurred in Kogi State, where travellers were killed and several others, including women and children, were abducted.
The ADC noted that over 180 schools in northern Nigeria had been shut due to insecurity, adding that incidents of abductions, killings, and forced displacement were increasing in states such as Plateau, Zamfara, Benue, Niger, Kaduna, and Kwara.
The party faulted the Federal Government’s repeated assurances of “progress” in tackling insecurity, saying the claims were contradicted by the daily killings of innocent Nigerians.
It also criticised the President for failing to visit communities affected by violence, particularly in Plateau State, where hundreds were killed earlier in the year, accusing him of showing “cruel indifference” to the plight of citizens.
“The President’s claim of progress in the fight against insecurity is a tragic denial of reality,” Abdullahi said, arguing that Tinubu’s actions have further divided the country.
‘’The ADC urged the Federal Government to acknowledge the scale of the security crisis, engage directly with affected communities, improve coordination of military and police deployments, and provide transparent public reporting on security operations and spending.
“Nigeria is under attack. This administration must stop pretending otherwise. The time for symbolic gestures is over; what the country needs now is responsible leadership, operational urgency, and measurable results,” the statement concluded.
However, the All Progressives Congress countered the ADC, stating that Nigeria is steadily progressing from a period of insecurity to greater national security, insisting that recent arrests of high-profile kidnappers and gang leaders underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting citizens and stabilising the country.
APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said the ADC is confused, ‘’having failed to gain acceptance among the populace.’’
Ibrahim, in an interview with The PUNCH, stated, “We are not expecting anything different from them. You see, the simple fact is that they have not been able to gain acceptance from the public. They will continue to attack whatever the APC is doing. But Nigerians know better. Nigerians know that the country is moving from insecurity to greater security.
“Yes, there are challenges here and there, but the speed with which these challenges are being confronted is a signal that the APC takes security seriously. Don’t forget, only recently, the APC government announced the arrest of the most high-profile kidnappers and gangsters that have been terrorising the entire West African region.
“These people have been captured, they are in custody, and their confessions are helping the security operatives to nip these things in the bud. So, whatever the ADC is saying, it is out of desperation because they have not succeeded in gaining the acceptance of Nigerians.”
Passion or side hustle: Fashion designer and actor
Reason for joining Big Brother Naija: I am here to show the world who I really am, no filters, no hiding. This is a chance to test my limits and build new connections. I’m here for the challenge, the excitement, and to prove that I’m more than just a pretty face. My strategy is to be myself, build strong alliances, and always bring positive vibes.
Hobbies: Singing, cooking, dancing, watching movies and gaming.
Hidden Talents: Let’s just say, I have a few tricks up my sleeves. I’m not about to spill all my secrets, but I can read a room like no one else. I have a way of making people feel like they’ve known me forever even if we just met – and I can turn any awkward situation into a moment of pure comedy.
My habits that irritate people: I am assertive. I also narrate everything. Like, if there’s drama in the house, I’m in the corner announcing, People say it’s annoying, but deep down? They live for my commentary. Also, I can be too honest. I say what’s on my mind – and some people find that irritating.
Relationship status: Right now I’m single. I just got out of a relationship a few months ago, so I’m still healing and learning. I believe relationships should be built on trust, communication, and deep connection, not just vibes. I’m not in a rush, but I’m open. I need someone who sees me, respects me, and brings peace, not stress.
I’m a 10 because: I’ve got a unique energy, a mix of strength and vulnerability and I’m not afraid to shake things up. I always bring positive vibes anywhere I find myself.
Big Brother has officially disqualified housemate Faith from the ongoing show after a physical altercation with fellow contestant Sultana.
The decision was announced by Biggie after he summoned an emergency meeting at the main lounge, and was asked to leave the house immediately.
This comes after reports that the clash with Sultana resulted in injuries, prompting the show’s management to take immediate action as it violates Biggie’s rules.
H.A.P.P.Y B.I.R.T.H.D.A.Y Another year wiser, stronger, and more intentional. I’m grateful for the journey so far and excited for what lies ahead. Cheers to growth, purpose, and new chapters. Happy Birthday to me! And thank you for your birthday wishes ❤️🎂💋.
I remember when I drove you @crossdabossike and dropped you off to see her when she was visiting Lagos. We spoke so much about her. You said you’d marry her and fast forward, you have. Proud of you fam. I’m activating myself for groomsman duties. Let’s go!!!!!
Recall that while in the Big Brother Naija Season 6 "Shine Your Eyes" in 2021, Cross was linked to Saskay and Angel.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has signed another two-year crude supply agreement with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The PUNCH gathered that the deal signed last month would ensure the steady supply of crude to the 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery located in Lekki, Lagos.
It was further gathered that the deal is in line with the Federal Government’s determination to supply more crude to the facility, especially in naira. The PUNCH learned that about 82 million barrels of crude have been allocated to the refinery from October 2024 to date.
Out of the 82 million barrels, 60 per cent, being 49.3 million barrels, was sold in naira to the refinery, according to details obtained from NNPC on Monday.
Recall that the Dangote refinery recently announced stopping petrol sales in naira, citing the exhaustion of its crude-for-naira allocation as the reason. But hours later, the Naira-for-Crude Technical Committee Chairman intervened, and the company announced the resumption of PMS sales in naira.
Speaking with our correspondent, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC, Andy Odeh, said the company had continued to allocate crude to the refinery in naira.
According to Odeh, NNPC, Dangote refinery, and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority periodically reconcile the volume and cost of crude oil supplied in naira commensurate with the crude delivered.
The spokesperson maintained that the state-owned energy company and the refinery negotiated and signed a new sales and purchase agreement that would terminate in 2027.
“In line with the FGN Crude for Naira Initiative, NNPC Limited has continued to allocate crude to Dangote refinery in naira for the sale of products in the domestic market.
“On the basis of the above, NNPC Limited, DPRP (Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemical), and NMDPRA periodically reconcile the volume and cost of product supplied in naira commensurate with the crude delivered.
“NNPC and DPRP have negotiated and in August signed a new Sales and Purchase Agreement for a tenure of two years,” Odeh said. He added that the company allocated three naira crude cargoes to the refinery in August and five cargoes for September and October.
He explained that crude loading operations for August had been completed, while September loading operations are currently ongoing with two vessels presently in terminals for pre-loading formalities.
“Consequently, NNPC allocated three naira crude cargoes in August and five cargoes each for September and October 2025. Crude loading operations for August have been completed, while September loading operations are currently underway with two vessels presently at terminals undergoing pre-loading formalities.
“In total, from October 2024 to October 2025, a total of 82 million barrels of crude have been allocated to the refinery, with 60 per cent of this total (49.3 million barrels) being naira cargoes,” he stated.
Dangote’s media team has yet to respond to messages seeking further details about the deal.
Meanwhile, the Steering Committee of the Domestic Crude Oil and Refined Products Sales in Local Currency Initiative, chaired by the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, has assured Nigerians that the purported suspension of the naira-for-crude oil arrangement has been amicably resolved.
The Director of Information and Public Relations at the Finance Ministry, Mohammed Manga, said in a statement that a meeting held by the committee over the weekend had in attendance the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu; the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr Zacch Adedeji, who also chairs the Technical Committee; representatives of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd., the Central Bank of Nigeria, and Afreximbank; and the Dangote refinery.
He reaffirmed that “there will be no disruption in the supply of refined petroleum products across the country. For the avoidance of doubt, the committee reassured that the crude oil for the naira initiative will continue.
“The Federal Government remains fully committed to ensuring energy security, protecting consumers and maintaining stability in the domestic petroleum products market.”
The naira-for-crude deal was ordered by President Bola Tinubu last year amid the crude crisis facing the Dangote refinery. The crude earmarked for local consumption was to be sold to local refineries, beginning with the Dangote refinery.
Though Dangote had repeatedly appreciated Tinubu for the intervention and its impact in helping lower crude prices, it had also complained of low crude supply forcing it to rely more on the United States for feedstock.
With the new agreement, the refinery is expected to get more local crude supplies going forward.
Marketers speak
Reacting, oil marketers described the deal as a welcome development, saying it would ensure a steady supply of fuels into the local market. They said Dangote should not rely heavily on imported crude if the Federal Government fully implements the domestic crude supply obligation.
The Vice President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Hammed Fashola, stated that the agreement would ensure energy security in the country.
“It is a good development. It will bring stability, sort of. We all know the impact of that when the programme started. Everybody was happy about it. If they can renew it and get it going on, it is good for the system; it will bring stability,” Fashola said.
Similarly, IPMAN spokesman, Chinedu Ukadike, commended the move but advised that the modular refineries should not be left behind. “I know there’s an agreement, but I don’t know if it is two years. There was a time Dangote stopped supplying products because of this naira-for-crude deal. Finally, the presidential committee swung into action and agreed to supply him crude uninterruptedly. I heard about.
“It is good news. NNPC should continue to supply Dangote crude oil. You cannot be exporting crude while Dangote is importing crude. By supplying crude oil to the Dangote refinery, we can have an uninterrupted supply of petroleum products in our filling stations, and the masses will not suffer.
“As independent marketers, we are highly committed and service-oriented to ensure there is a continuous flow of petroleum products from our tanks to the end users. The government should also consider modular refineries in its domestic crude supply obligation,” Ukadike said.
He charged the Federal Government to come up with a white paper to put an end to the crisis between Dangote and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, saying the crisis can endanger the nation’s economy.
The meeting between the delegation of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association and the management of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery over the lingering industrial dispute ended in a deadlock.
The reconciliation meeting, called by the Federal Government, started at approximately 4 p.m. on Monday.
The meeting, attended by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Dingyadi, and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, lasted for about nine hours into the early hours of Tuesday.
Following the stalemate, Dingyadi said the meeting would reconvene to resolve the deadlock at 2 p.m. on Tuesday.
The Federal Government, worried about the potential impact of the dispute on the nation’s economy and energy security, had summoned both sides to the negotiating table following reports of widespread discontent.
The rift stems from allegations by PENGASSAN that Dangote Refinery had embarked on the mass transfer and sack of union members.
Also, he allegedly replaced some Nigerians with foreign nationals, a claim the company has consistently denied.
The session, originally scheduled for 2 p.m., began around 3:50 p.m. due to the late arrival of key stakeholders, before moving into a closed-door discussion that lasted several hours.
In his opening remarks, Dingyadi underscored the gravity of the situation.
“What’s happening today is very dear to our economy and to the security of the country. We have been informed that PENGASSAN is on strike,” he said.
The minister appealed to both parties to demonstrate good faith in dialogue, stressing that industrial peace in the oil and gas sector was critical at a time Nigeria is banking on the Dangote Refinery to boost local refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
The deadlock means tension remains high, with PENGASSAN insisting its members will not return to work until alleged anti-labour practices are reversed, while Dangote Refinery maintains that its restructuring exercise is in line with global best practices.
As the stalemate lingers, concerns are mounting about the potential disruption of operations at the refinery and the ripple effect on petroleum product supply across the country.
The next round of talks later today is expected to determine whether a compromise can be reached to avert a full-blown industrial crisis in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Nigeria’s rental market is spiralling, with two-bedroom apartments averaging N2.5m annually, far above rates of just a few years ago. From N250,000 flats in Benin to N20m luxury units in Lagos, tenants nationwide face surging rents that are deepening an affordability crisis and squeezing millions of households, writes JOSEPHINE OGUNDEJI
The Nigerian housing market is facing one of its toughest periods in recent history, as the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in many parts of the country has climbed to about N2.5m annually, according to findings by The PUNCH.
This figure represents a sharp rise compared to what was obtainable a few years ago and highlights the deepening affordability crisis confronting millions of Nigerians. From Lagos to Kano and Ibadan to Port Harcourt, tenants are feeling the squeeze of rapidly escalating rents.
While N2.5m serves as a national benchmark, the reality is that rents vary wildly across cities and neighbourhoods ranging from as low as N250,000 in some inner parts of Benin City to as high as N20m in Lagos’s luxury districts, according to data gathered from industry players in these various locations.
Why two-bedroom flats
The focus on two-bedroom apartments is deliberate. Across Nigeria, this category of housing is often considered the “middle ground” for families, young professionals, and middle-income earners. A single-bedroom apartment is typically viewed as temporary or transitional housing, while three- and four-bedroom units are often priced far beyond the reach of average tenants.
For many Nigerians, a two-bedroom flat represents a balance between affordability and comfort. Yet, with prices surging, even this once-modest option is increasingly out of reach.
A resident of Jos, Plateau State, Gloria Oyogho, explained how rent is shaped by finishing and infrastructure. “In standard areas with good finishing, water supply, and stable electricity, rents range between N1.5m and N2.5m. But in less standard areas, prices are much lower, around N500,000 to N800,000,” she told The PUNCH.
She added that hidden costs further inflate expenditure: agency fees, legal charges, and sometimes compulsory renovation levies. “I once saw a flat for N500,000, but it lacked running water, and residents depended on a well,” she said, underlining how amenities directly impact value.
In Abuja, the country’s capital, rent disparities are glaring. Legal practitioner Adedapo Adewuyi described the property market as a spectrum, from relatively affordable outskirts to premium neighbourhoods catering to the wealthy and political elite.
In Karu, Maraba, and Kubwa, rents for two-bedroom flats range between N1.5m and N2.5m. In Wuse 2, Jahi, and Jabi, the cost climbs to around N3m. In Maitama and Asokoro, two-bedroom units cost up to N10m annually, reflecting prestige and exclusivity.
“These high-end districts are magnets for executives, diplomats, and top government officials,” Adewuyi explained. “Location remains the single most important factor in Abuja’s property market.”
The imbalance has led to rising tenant frustrations. One lawyer in a social forum questioned whether it was legal for a landlord to raise a tenant’s rent from N1.5m to N2.8m just months before renewal. Such abrupt hikes are increasingly common.
Ibadan, traditionally considered an affordable city, is fast losing that reputation. Data analyst Oladayo Isaac recounted how his rent journey reflected the city’s transformation.
“In 2022, two-bedroom flats cost between N300,000 and N500,000. I rented mine for N350,000. Today, average rents are N800,000 to N1.5m. Landlords are even introducing service charges, something unheard of in Ibadan until now,” he said.
He also narrated how inspections have turned into bidding wars. “We were about 50 people at one viewing. The landlord raised the price on the spot because of demand. Another apartment I considered rose from N1m to N1.1m in a week.” Isaac lamented that Ibadan landlords are “copying Lagos models”, with arbitrary rent hikes and extra service charges.
In Ogun State, proximity to Lagos is a key driver. Architect Seyi Amusan explained that in Opic, two-bedroom flats cost between N2m and N2.5m annually. “The demand comes from workers who cannot afford Lagos rents but still want to be close to the city,” he said. Yet prices are far from uniform. Rural districts in Ogun remain relatively affordable, though infrastructure gaps often make them less desirable.
Enugu also mirrors the nationwide pattern of disparities. Agent John Kalu said two-bedroom flats in Emene and Abakpa go for N800,000–N4m, while prime areas like New Haven and Independence Layout cost N2.5m and above. “Tenants must also add legal and agent fees, which can increase total costs by 10 – 15 per cent,” Kalu noted.
Lagos stands out as the most expensive and unpredictable rental market in Nigeria. The spread is dramatic: Ikorodu, N1.5m N2m; Ketu and Alapere, N2.5m upwards; Gbagada and Shomolu, N2.5m – N3.4m; Ikeja, N4.5m – N6m; Magodo, N4m; and Ikoyi and Victoria Island, N8m – N20m.
One tenant along the Alapere/Ogudu Expressway said his rent jumped from N400,000 to N1.2m in a single review. Such steep hikes, often without justification, reflect the cutthroat competition for housing in Lagos.
In Uyo, estate agent Mint Ebuk reported average rents of N650,000 – N5m. In Benin-City, agent David Asobur noted extremes: N250,000 for poorly serviced inner neighbourhoods and up to N2.5m for well-serviced areas. In Calabar, resident Impress Nkechi said prime districts like Parliamentary Extension rarely go below N1.5m, while the outskirts still offer flats for N700,000.
Kano’s housing reflects its socio-economic diversity. Agent Amin Ya Rabbi explained that in Nasarawa GRA, the cost of rent is from N5m and above; Zoo Road, Otoro, N2m N2.5m; and Badawa, Sabangari, N800,000 N1.5m. “These differences reflect not just income levels but also cultural preferences and accessibility,” he said.
In Port Harcourt, two-bedroom flats cost between N600,000 and N4m depending on location. GRA stands at the top, with apartments rarely below N3.5m. The city’s average N2.5m mirrors the national median.
Institutions react
The Assistant National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Ayodele Olamoju, noted that rents in Nigeria have skyrocketed in a way that feels almost unbearable for many, especially those living in big cities.
He said, “What we’re facing is not just a random occurrence; it’s really the outcome of demand and supply struggling against each other, shaped by economic, social, and political forces. The housing market is under immense pressure, and without enough affordable options being delivered, the sharp rent increases keep hitting ordinary people hard. Take, for example, the average two-bedroom apartment that now goes for around N2.5m in major cities in the country. That figure alone tells the story of how far things have escalated. The surge is not because landlords simply want to exploit tenants; it’s because costs across the board have risen drastically. Inflation has eaten deep into every part of the housing value chain. From cement to steel, tiles, fittings, and even labour, prices have doubled or tripled within a short time, and naturally, developers and landlords are passing on these costs to tenants.
“Another major factor is our currency instability. The depreciation of the naira and the persistent foreign exchange shortages mean that anything imported for construction immediately becomes more expensive. Whether it’s finishing materials, fixtures, or even machinery, the exchange rate problem makes it harder to build at a reasonable cost. This has worsened construction inflation, and by extension, made rents climb faster than wages can catch up.
“All these issues combined show that the rent crisis is not a simple problem; it is structural. It exposes gaps in housing policy, weak supply systems, and the economic realities that every Nigerian is grappling with. Until there’s a deliberate effort to address both the economic pressures and the policy failures that feed into the demand-supply imbalance, rents will keep rising, and tenants will continue to struggle.”
An estate surveyor, Olorunyomi Alatise, noted that rental prices in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos where the pressure is most acute, have spiralled uncontrollably in recent years, driven by both structural deficiencies and economic realities.
He said, “The chronic housing deficit in Kano, for instance, has created a persistent imbalance between supply and demand. On the other hand, inflation, currency volatility, and escalating construction costs have left landlords with little choice but to push rents upward, often indiscriminately. This dual force of scarcity and cost-push inflation has made shelter an increasingly elusive basic need for many.
“The troubling irony, however, is that these rent reviews rarely align with tenants’ earning capacity. Salaries are either stagnant or, where increased, fail to match the pace of inflation, leaving households vulnerable. The gap between rent obligations and income growth has widened so sharply that affordability has become a pressing crisis. For a significant portion of the population, rent now consumes a disproportionate share of monthly earnings, leaving little for other essentials and pushing many towards overcrowded, inadequate housing or outright displacement.
Addressing this pervasive challenge requires a deliberate, multi-pronged response.
Affordable “housing delivery must be prioritised through mass housing schemes supported by government and private developers. Policy innovations such as incentivising longer, stable leases, regulating the spread of short-term rentals, and publishing a transparent rent index for both rents and property sales would bring sanity and predictability to the market. Additionally, construction costs can be reduced by encouraging the use of local building materials and granting tariff relief on essential inputs. Without such systemic interventions, the housing affordability gap will continue to widen, deepening social and economic inequalities.”
Meanwhile, the president of the Association of Housing Corporations of Nigeria, Eno Obongha, noted that the reasons for the rent hike were not far-fetched.
He said, “When demand is higher than supply, prices must go up. The supply end is limited because building material prices are very high. Most of the imported materials are also affected by the dollar value. The processes for obtaining housing loans from development finance institutions are equally cumbersome.
“There must be a deliberate effort by federal, state and local governments in Nigeria to increase the housing stock for the benefit of medium- and low-income earners. The housing deficit affects the medium- and low-income earners, and these days, because of the economic hardship, many high-income earners are leaving big properties to compete for two- and three-bedroom units. Finally, there are no rent control laws to regulate rents charged by landlords.”
A builder, Awolusi Femi, noted that the steady rise in rental prices across the country is driven by a complex mix of economic and structural factors.
He said, “One of the most pressing issues is the increasing cost of land. As urban centres expand and demand for prime locations intensifies, the value of land continues to soar. Land scarcity in major cities has further heightened competition, making property acquisition an expensive venture. This, in turn, pushes landlords and developers to pass on these costs to tenants in the form of higher rent, making housing less affordable for the average citizen.
“Beyond land costs, the relentless surge in building material prices plays a significant role. Materials such as cement, steel, roofing sheets, and finishing products are experiencing constant price hikes, largely influenced by inflation, import dependence, and supply chain disruptions. These rising costs not only impact new construction projects but also existing buildings. Landlords are compelled to adjust rents upward to cover maintenance expenses, since even routine repairs now require expensive materials. Consequently, tenants are bearing the brunt of these inflationary pressures.
“Another key factor is the rising cost of labour, both skilled and unskilled. Masons, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and general labourers have steadily increased their charges due to the high cost of living and limited availability of trained professionals. For property developers, this translates to higher project costs, while for landlords, it means greater expenses in maintaining or upgrading their properties. Inevitably, these additional costs are transferred to tenants through higher rental fees. Altogether, the combination of expensive land, soaring material prices, and costly labour has created a rental market that is becoming increasingly unsustainable for many households.”
Historical context
Nigeria’s rent crisis didn’t happen overnight. Analysts trace the surge to several long-standing issues. Urban migration is one of them, as Nigeria’s cities have swelled dramatically since the 1990s. Lagos alone receives an estimated 600,000 new residents annually.
Inadequate housing supply is also another issue. Government housing schemes have consistently fallen short of targets. The national housing deficit is estimated at 28 million units. High construction costs are considered too, as the prices of cement, iron rods, and finishing materials have soared due to inflation and foreign exchange challenges.
Speculative real estate is an issue, as developers and landlords often price properties far above market reality, targeting elites and expatriates rather than average citizens.
Behind the numbers are real struggles. Families are increasingly forced to relocate to the outskirts, endure longer commutes, or downgrade to smaller apartments. Many middle-income earners now spend over 40 per cent of their salary on rent, far above the 25–30 per cent recommended globally.
Some households face eviction after failing to meet sudden rent hikes. Others are pushed into overcrowded flats, worsening urban slum conditions. For younger Nigerians, the dream of independent living is increasingly delayed, with many staying longer in family homes.
Experts speak
Acting Dean of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences at West Midlands Open University, Lagos, Dr Timilehin Olubiyi, described the situation as alarming. “Rent now consumes a disproportionate share of income. Families are forced to choose between paying rent and meeting basic needs like healthcare and education,” he said.
Olubiyi proposed three urgent steps, including affordable housing policies. He said the government should partner with private developers to build low- and middle-income homes and called for rent control measures by limiting annual increases to prevent arbitrary hikes.
On stricter urban planning, he said there should be infrastructure expansion to new districts to ease pressure on city centres. He emphasised that Nigeria’s housing crisis is not insurmountable, stating that “with the right policies, investment, and community involvement, affordable housing can become a reality.”
Possible solutions
Experts noted that public-private partnerships that entail joint projects between the government and private developers can increase housing stock. Rent-to-own schemes that are already tested in parts of Lagos and Abuja could be expanded nationally.
Also, offering tax breaks to landlords who maintain affordable rents could encourage moderation. Cooperative housing models where communities pool resources to build shared housing can provide alternatives for low-income families. Digital transparency, where online rent portals are concerned, could standardise pricing and reduce exploitation by agents.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s rent crisis is worsening by the year. With two-bedroom flats averaging ₦2.5m, millions of households now struggle to secure decent shelter. The disparities, ₦250,000 in some Benin-City neighbourhoods versus ₦20m in Ikoyi, highlight a deeply fragmented housing market.
Unless urgent steps are taken, the affordability gap will widen, social tensions will increase, and urban poverty will deepen. The question now is whether government and private stakeholders can act quickly enough to prevent the dream of decent housing from slipping further away for millions of Nigerians.
For many tenants across the country, the next rent cycle could determine not just where they live, but whether they can continue to live with dignity at all.
The Federal Government is set to arraign human rights activist Omoyele Sowore on a five-count charge for allegedly posting false statements about President Bola Tinubu intended to cause a breakdown of law and order, court papers show.
Sowore was sighted at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday ahead of the arraignment.
The suit dated 16th September,2025, was lodged after Sowore allegedly refused to delete the controversial posts about the President.
The Sahara Reporters publisher was accused of using his official X handle to make the post, “This criminal @ official PBAT Actually went to Brazil to state that there is no more corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”
The alleged offending post, said to be contrary to Section 24(2) (b) of the Cybercrimes Prohibition and Prevention Act 2024, was said to have been made on August 25 within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.
The charges were brought on behalf of the DSS and the Federal Government by M.B. Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecutions at the Federal Ministry of Justice, alongside four other counsel to the DSS –M.E. Ernest, U.B. Bulla, Dr. C.S. Eze, and E.G. Orubor.
Confirming the legal action in a Facebook post last week, Sowore wrote, “The State Security Service, alias @OfficialDSSNG today filed a 5-count charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja against ‘X’ (formerly Twitter Facebook, and myself. They claimed that because I called Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu a criminal, I have somehow committed a set of ‘novel’ offences they invented and spread across five counts.
“It’s hard to believe there’s anyone sensible left in these offices that should be making Nigeria work. Regardless, I will be present whenever this case is assigned for trial. #RevolutionNow.”
PUNCH Online had earlier reported that the human rights activist and African Action Congress candidate in the 2023 election vowed not to delete the controversial tweet, despite a request from the DSS to X demanding its removal.
Restating his stance, Sowore wrote, “This morning, X (formerly Twitter) officially contacted me about the despicable threat letter they received from the lawless DSS over my Tweet on Tinubu. One option I will NOT be taking is deleting that Tweet. Thank you, @X.”
Celebrities › Re: 14 Fascinating Facts About Bbnaija Season 10 Winner Imisi Ayanwale by nlfpmod(mod): 9:31am On Oct 08, 2025
