Abuja Housing Affordability Crisis Deepens: 71% find paying rent much harder than 3 years ago
Abuja, Nigeria. October 7th, 2026 – A new public opinion poll conducted by NOIPolls indicates a significant housing affordability challenge, with 71% of respondents reporting that meeting rent obligations has become much harder compared to three years ago. Among respondents who pay rent, 93% report that landlords require a year's rent upfront, compounding the financial burden on households.
The survey also shows that 68% of respondents have experienced rent increases in the last 3 years, with 34% reporting increases of 50% or more at their last renewal. This financial pressure has forced many to reconsider their living arrangements. If rent were to increase by another 25% at the next renewal, 45% of respondents indicated they would most likely move to a cheaper, farther neighbourhood. The data also shows a strong reliance on satellite towns, where 60% of respondents currently reside or plan to reside, indicating a shift away from the more expensive core city centres.
Furthermore, the survey reveals low awareness of government action. While 82% of respondents have not heard of any government policies or legislative debates to regulate rent increases, views are mixed on the proposed bill mandating monthly rent payments rather than annual advance payments; 50% oppose it. When asked about the most effective solution to the rent crisis, 43% of respondents selected government rent control and strict enforcement of rent caps, hinting at a desire for direct intervention.
Overall, the Abuja rental market is characterised by high upfront costs, frequent and significant rent increases, and a growing financial strain on residents. These findings point to a need for housing policies that improve affordability, expand access to low-cost housing, and address rent-payment structures to reduce the burden on households. These are some of the key findings from the Abuja Rent Poll conducted in the week commencing June 8th, 2026.
Download the report here
