……says housing is a social service
By Onomiguren Agbamu
The Honourable Commissioner, Delta State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Renewal, Engr. Michael Anoka has expressed satisfaction over the proposed bill to regulate landlords and housing agents across the state that is slated for public hearing October 28, 2025, by the State House Assembly.
The Commissioner who spoke through the Ministry Director for Urban Development, and Town Planner, Mr. Godwin Okore revealed that the ministry was equally worried at the incessant increase of house rent in the state, especially at the state capital.
The Commissioner also noted that the ministry has received complaints from members of the public on the exorbitant rents charged, ranging from one-room apartments to three-bedroom flats.
He said these high charges are not only unfair to working residents but also hurting the urban economy.
He said, “We noticed that rents across cities and towns have become too high, and this is affecting the urban economy. Many residents who are actively employed are now struggling to pay for housing rents.”
He continued, “When citizens spend most of their income on rent, it creates a housing deficit and affects economic growth at the community and state levels”
“Housing should be considered a social service and not merely a profit-making venture for landlords, and landlords must understand that providing housing is a social service. It should not be driven purely by profit.”
He stressed that housing, water, and security are among the basic human needs identified by the United Nations, and every responsible government must ensure their availability.”
“The ministry is in support of the ongoing Landlords and Tenant Bill 2025 currently before the Delta State House of Assembly, and it is a bold step by the State Government to regulate the housing sector and protect both landlords and tenants.”
According to him, “This bill is a bold attempt by the State Government to regulate many of the excesses happening in the housing sector. Once the bill becomes law, there will be enforcement measures to ensure compliance and to prevent landlords and agents from exploiting tenants through hidden fees like ‘total package’ or ‘service charge’ plans.
He, however, noted that the ministry will do more sensitization and awareness campaigns to ensure landlords understand the new system and willingly comply.
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