The rising cost of rent in Nigeria has compelled many individuals to seek unconventional housing solutions, such as renting shop spaces as apartments. This trend has emerged in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which landlords reportedly increased rents by over 100%, exacerbating the financial strain on tenants.
As economic challenges continue, many Nigerians find themselves unable to afford traditional housing. Individuals like Jude Boma, a mechanic, shared their struggles, citing a staggering 300% increase in his room and parlour apartment rent. Faced with mounting costs, he opted to send his family to the village and rent a shop space to share with friends, illustrating the lengths to which people are going to secure shelter.
Similarly, Miss Osasowie George, a pure water seller, recounted her experience of being forced to move from her room apartment due to a rent hike from N30,000 to N80,000. She and her companions found a shop in an area with low demand and negotiated a yearly rent of N20,000, significantly less than their previous living situation.
Idris Moshood, a caretaker and apartment agent, noted that some landlords are now renting out vacant shop spaces as living quarters. Many skilled workers, such as artisans and bus conductors, are utilizing these spaces for both work and living arrangements, often sharing with others to divide costs.
Despite efforts by various state governments to address the housing crisis, the reality remains grim for many residents, with some on the verge of eviction due to rising rent. The ongoing economic challenges have forced a significant portion of the population to adapt to these harsh living conditions, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable housing solutions in Nigeria.
