Stakeholders in Nigeria’s housing sector have raised alarms over multiple taxes and levies imposed on private developers, calling the burden a major barrier to growth. The concerns were voiced at a two-day workshop in Ogun State titled “The Impact of Emerging Technologies on Urban and Regional Planning: Challenges and Opportunities.”
Bisi Adedire , President of the Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria, criticized the multiplicity of taxes levied by government ministries and agencies. He argued that requiring developers to pay upfront fees before construction begins stifles investment. “While taxes fund essential services, the current system harms developers. The Federal Government must adopt a more equitable approach,” he said.
Estate surveyor Olorunyomi Alatise echoed this, noting that excessive taxation discourages property owners from regularizing land titles. “From capital gains tax to land use charges, the cumulative burden on new property owners is overwhelming,” he stated, urging streamlined processes.
Oluwole Sotire , Permanent Secretary at Lagos State’s Ministry of Physical Planning, acknowledged the need for balance. “Citizens must pay taxes, but equity matters. Governments must involve stakeholders to ensure fair policies,” he said. Sotire also highlighted systemic failures, citing a case in Ogun State where conflicting Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) were issued for the same plot, undermining trust in regulatory bodies.
Babatunde Adeyemo , CEO of Pelican Valley, stressed the need for strategic land acquisition and infrastructure provision. “Development cannot thrive without basic amenities. Clearing villages without planning leads to failed projects,” he said, referencing the underdeveloped Muhammad Buhari Estate in Kobape.
Key Issues Identified:
- Upfront Tax Demands: Developers forced to pay levies before construction.
- Regulatory Inconsistencies: Overlapping C-of-Os and land disputes.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Acquired lands lack utilities, deterring occupancy.
The stakeholders urged governments to enforce existing policies, simplify tax systems, and prioritize infrastructure to unlock the sector’s potential.
Follow us on Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/businessnewsng?igsh=ZXpweTdjOGF1ZXdu
