SEO Riders:
– NIESV President Victor Alonge urges review of 1978 Land Use Act
- – Calls for clearer distinction between affordable and social housing
- – Advocates for punitive taxes on vacant properties to boost housing availability
On May 7, 2025, the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) called for a comprehensive review of the Land Use Act and the National Housing Policy. Speaking at the institution’s 55th annual conference in Abuja, NIESV President Victor Alonge emphasized that the Land Use Act, enacted in 1978, is outdated and hinders equitable land access and real estate development.
Alonge highlighted that the current land administration system disproportionately favors wealthy developers, leaving the general populace struggling to access land. He also pointed out that the National Housing Policy lacks clarity, leading to confusion in its implementation, particularly in distinguishing between affordable and social housing.
To address housing shortages, Alonge advocated for punitive taxation on vacant properties, a measure used in advanced economies to discourage leaving homes unoccupied. He stressed that such policies could compel property owners to rent or occupy their buildings, thereby increasing housing availability.
