From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), ESV John Eniwaiye, has called on the state and federal governments to invest in affordable housing to ease pressure on the property market.
Eniwaiye made the call while speaking at the 2026 Valuation Day, themed “Unlocking Nigeria’s Wealth: How Valuation Builds Our Prosperity,” in Lokoja.
The state chairman, who raised concerns over the growing exploitation of tenants by landlords and agents, also called for urgent government regulation to protect residents and workers.
“Arbitrary rent increases are forcing many families out of their homes and worsening economic hardship,” he said.
He pointed out that every property should have a professionally determined rental value, but many landlords ignore this, leading to unchecked rent hikes in society.
Eniwaiye attributed the trend partly to unqualified practitioners. “Quackery remains a major challenge. Many landlords rely on informal advice rather than engaging certified professionals. This must change,” he warned.
He cautioned that the consequences could be far-reaching. “When people are displaced due to excessive rent, it can fuel social vices, including crime. This is why urgent government intervention is necessary,” he said.
Eniwaiye also urged the Kogi State Government to invest in affordable housing schemes to ease pressure on the property market.
“Government must step in with housing schemes for workers and residents. This will reduce pressure on existing housing stock and curb excesses in the system,” he said.
In his remarks, a former Kogi State Chairman of NIESV, ESV Ekundayo Ayodele, supported the call for stronger regulation and collective action.
“We must work together to check the excesses of individuals making life difficult for residents,” Ayodele said. “As professionals, we are committed to ensuring fairness, transparency, and that no citizen is exploited.”
He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to public enlightenment. “We will continue to sensitise the public on the importance of engaging qualified estate surveyors and valuers. This is key to restoring sanity in the sector,” he added.
Activities marking the 2026 Valuation Day in Kogi included a road walk to raise public awareness and a free valuation clinic, where professionals visited selected offices across the metropolis on May 5, 2026.
