FG directs houses and land owners in Lagos to pay ground rent

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has called on occupants of Federal Government-owned lands and houses in Lagos State to pay their ground rent directly into the government’s account.

Speaking on Friday in Banana Island, Dangiwa emphasised the ministry’s commitment to improving its revenue by ensuring all occupiers of Federal Government assets comply with payment obligations.

He noted that the funds would be used to enhance the facilities and infrastructure. He further stated that the Federal Government remains dedicated to renovating, securing, and maximising the value of its assets nationwide while enforcing strict compliance with land and estate administration laws.

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“The Ministry is determined to uphold the provisions of the law to maintain order in the administration of its assets,” he said.

The minister also clarified the role of estate associations, explaining that they are permitted to collect facility management fees agreed upon with residents but must not extend their role to collecting ground rent.

“Facility management fees are standard charges for maintaining estates, but ground rent belongs to the Federal Government.

If associations collect it on our behalf, they must remit it fully. Otherwise, we will deploy our staff or hire consultants to manage the collections,” Dangiwa warned.