1. Introduction

The process of increasing rent for a property in Nigeria presents a complex landscape, largely due to the absence of a singular, overarching federal law that governs rent adjustments ¹. This lack of uniformity means that the rules and regulations surrounding rent increases can vary significantly from one state to another, creating a fragmented environment for both landlords and tenants. Consequently, it becomes imperative for landlords to possess a thorough understanding of the specific legal and market dynamics prevalent in the state where their property is located. This localized regulatory framework underscores the need for a nuanced approach to rent increases, one that takes into account the particularities of each state’s legislation and prevailing market conditions.

Beyond the strict legal obligations, ethical considerations play a vital role in the proper management of rent increases. While adhering to the law is fundamental, practices such as ensuring fairness, maintaining transparency in the process, and providing reasonable justification for any increment are crucial for fostering positive and enduring relationships with tenants. A purely legalistic approach, especially in regions where enforcement mechanisms may be less robust ¹, can lead to tenant dissatisfaction, potentially resulting in higher tenant turnover and difficulties in attracting new occupants. Therefore, a balanced approach that respects both the legal framework and ethical principles is essential for landlords seeking to increase rent appropriately. This report aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for landlords in Nigeria, outlining the proper procedures and considerations for increasing rent in a manner that is both legally sound and ethically responsible.

2. The Legal Landscape of Rent Increases in Nigeria

The governance of tenancy matters in Nigeria is primarily conducted at the state level ². This decentralized structure signifies that the legal framework concerning rent increases is not dictated by a single national statute but rather by the individual laws enacted by each of the country’s 36 states. As a result, landlords operating in different states must navigate distinct sets of rules regarding the permissible frequency of rent adjustments, the mandatory notice periods that must be observed, and the legitimate grounds upon which a rent increase can be based. This state-specific regulation necessitates that landlords acquire detailed knowledge of the tenancy laws applicable in their particular area of operation, as compliance with these sub-national legal frameworks is paramount.

Adding to this complexity is the absence of a comprehensive federal landlord-tenant act in Nigeria ¹. Unlike some other jurisdictions where a national law establishes a baseline of rights and obligations for both landlords and tenants, Nigeria relies on state legislatures to provide this crucial regulatory framework. This absence of federal oversight places a significant responsibility on state governments to ensure their tenancy laws are clear, comprehensive, and effectively address the various aspects of the rental relationship, including the procedures for rent increases. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of the contractual agreements entered into between landlords and tenants, as these agreements often play a crucial role in defining the terms of the tenancy, particularly in the absence of specific statutory provisions.

Among the state tenancy laws, the Lagos State Tenancy Law of 2011 stands out as a prominent example of a comprehensive legal structure designed to regulate rental housing within the state ³. This law represents a significant effort to create a balanced framework that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, with specific attention paid to the protocols surrounding rent adjustments. The legislation in Lagos aims to foster a more stable and predictable rental market by establishing clear guidelines on issues such as the requirement for written tenancy agreements, the stipulations regarding notice periods for various tenancy types, and the mechanisms available for resolving disputes that may arise between landlords and tenants.

Within the Lagos State Tenancy Law of 2011, specific provisions address the crucial aspects of rent payments, increases, and the mandatory notice periods that landlords must adhere to ³. For tenancies with an annual rent cycle, the law stipulates that landlords are permitted to increase the rent only once within a twelve-month period. Furthermore, to ensure tenants have adequate time to prepare for such an adjustment or to seek alternative accommodation if necessary, landlords are legally obligated to provide a written notice of at least three months prior to the effective date of the rent increase ³. This requirement aims to provide tenants in Lagos with a degree of financial predictability and sufficient time to make informed decisions regarding their housing.

Significantly, the Lagos State Tenancy Law also empowers tenants by granting them the right to challenge rent increases that they deem unreasonable in a court of law ⁵. This provision allows tenants to seek judicial review of a proposed rent increase if they believe it is excessive or not in line with prevailing market rates for comparable properties in the area ⁶. The court, upon receiving such an application from a tenant, will consider various factors, including the general level of rents for similar properties in the locality, evidence presented by both the landlord and the tenant, and any special circumstances related to the specific premises in question ⁶. If the court is satisfied that the rent increase is indeed unreasonable, it has the authority to order that the increase be adjusted to a specific, more equitable amount ⁶. This legal recourse serves as a vital protection for tenants in Lagos against arbitrary or exploitative rent hikes.

While the Lagos State Tenancy Law provides a robust framework, it is important to note that some other states in Nigeria may have their own rent control laws in place ². These laws, enacted with the intention of safeguarding tenants from exorbitant rent increases and ensuring housing affordability ⁸, can vary considerably in their scope and effectiveness ². In some instances, these rent control measures may be perceived as outdated or may suffer from inconsistent enforcement ², which can limit their practical impact. Nevertheless, landlords should be aware of any such regulations that exist in the state where their property is located and understand the potential implications for their rent increase practices.

3. The Tenancy Agreement: The Foundation of Rent Adjustments

A well-drafted tenancy agreement serves as the cornerstone of a clear and legally sound rental relationship, particularly when it comes to the matter of rent adjustments ¹. This document often specifies the terms under which the rent can be reviewed and potentially increased during the course of the tenancy ¹. A comprehensive agreement that clearly outlines the procedures for rent review can significantly mitigate the risk of future disputes between landlords and tenants by establishing a mutual understanding of the rules of engagement from the very beginning of the tenancy.

Including a clear and unambiguous rent review clause within the tenancy agreement is of paramount importance ¹. This clause should explicitly state the frequency with which the rent can be reviewed (for example, annually, biennially, or triennially) ¹. Furthermore, it should detail the specific method that will be used to determine any rent adjustments, such as linking the increase to prevailing market rates for comparable properties, applying a fixed percentage increment, or using a mutually agreed-upon index ¹. A well-defined rent review clause provides both landlords and tenants with transparency and predictability regarding future rent adjustments, helping tenants to plan their finances accordingly and ensuring that any increases are based on pre-agreed objective criteria rather than arbitrary decisions.

Conversely, the absence of a clear rent review clause in the tenancy agreement can be a significant source of contention and can frequently lead to disputes between landlords and tenants ¹. Without a pre-established mechanism for rent adjustments, any attempt by the landlord to increase the rent during the tenant’s occupation can be perceived as a unilateral alteration of the original agreement ⁵. This can result in disagreements, potential legal challenges from the tenant who feels the increase is unwarranted or unfair, and an overall deterioration of the landlord-tenant relationship. Therefore, it is highly advisable for landlords to ensure that their tenancy agreements include a clear and comprehensive rent review clause to avoid such complications.

In the context of an existing tenancy, even when a rent review clause is present, the legal principle of mutual agreement often plays a crucial role in the implementation of any rent increase ⁵. Generally, rent can only be increased during the period of a tenant’s occupation if there is a clear agreement reached between the landlord and the tenant, typically following a process of consultation ⁵. Unless the tenancy agreement explicitly and clearly outlines a schedule or method for automatic rent increases, landlords usually cannot unilaterally impose a rent hike mid-tenancy without the tenant’s explicit consent. This principle underscores the fundamental contractual nature of the tenancy, where both parties have agreed to specific terms, including the rent amount, for a defined period. Any alteration to this core term typically requires the mutual assent of both the landlord and the tenant.

Reflecting this principle, the courts in Nigeria have often viewed a unilateral rent increase by a landlord during an existing tenancy, in the absence of a clear provision in the tenancy agreement, as merely an offer to the tenant ⁵. This legal interpretation means that the tenant has the right to either accept or reject the proposed rent increase. If the tenant chooses to reject the offer, the landlord generally must either revert to the original terms of the tenancy agreement or, at the end of the current tenancy period, choose not to renew the lease, following the legally prescribed procedures for terminating the tenancy. This judicial stance reinforces the tenant’s position and limits the landlord’s ability to impose arbitrary rent increases during the agreed-upon term of the lease without prior agreement or a clearly defined rent review mechanism within the initial contract.

4. Providing Proper Notice: Legal Requirements and Best Practices

Adhering to the legal requirements for providing notice of a rent increase is a fundamental aspect of properly managing rental properties in Nigeria. In Lagos State, for instance, the Tenancy Law mandates a specific notice period for rent increases. For tenants on an annual tenancy agreement, landlords are legally obligated to provide a written notice of at least three months before any increase in rent can take effect ³. This regulation ensures that tenants have ample time to consider the proposed change in rental costs and make necessary arrangements, whether that involves adjusting their budget or seeking alternative housing options. Failure by a landlord in Lagos to provide this minimum statutory notice renders the rent increase invalid and could lead to legal repercussions.

Outside of Lagos State, the legal requirements for notice periods can vary depending on the specific tenancy laws enacted by each state ¹. Given the absence of a unified federal law on this matter, landlords must diligently research and comply with the particular regulations of the state where their rental property is located. If a state’s tenancy law does not explicitly specify a notice period for rent increases, the notice period outlined in the tenancy agreement itself will typically govern the situation. In the absence of both a statutory requirement and a contractual provision, the generally accepted principle is that “reasonable notice” must be given to the tenant before a rent increase is implemented. However, the interpretation of what constitutes “reasonable notice” can be subjective and may potentially lead to disagreements between landlords and tenants.

Beyond the strict legal minimums, adopting best practices for informing tenants of a rent increase is crucial for maintaining a positive and professional landlord-tenant relationship. A common and advisable practice across Nigeria is for landlords to provide a notice period that extends beyond the legal minimum, ideally giving tenants at least six months’ notice before the end of their current tenancy period ¹⁴. While not always mandated by law, providing this extended notice demonstrates consideration for the tenant’s circumstances and allows them a more comfortable timeframe to plan for the increased expense or to explore other housing alternatives if the new rent is not feasible for them. This proactive approach to communication can contribute significantly to tenant satisfaction and potentially reduce the likelihood of disputes arising from the rent increase.

To ensure that tenants are adequately informed of a rent increase, several best practices should be followed. Firstly, the notice should always be provided in writing ¹⁵. A written notice creates a clear and permanent record of the communication, including all the essential details, and helps to avoid any misunderstandings that might arise from verbal notifications. Secondly, the written notice should include key information such as the current rent amount, the specific new rent amount, the exact date on which the increased rent will become effective, and a clear explanation of the reason for the rent adjustment ¹⁶. Transparency regarding the rationale behind the increase can help tenants understand the necessity of the adjustment and may make it more acceptable. If the tenancy agreement contains a rent review clause, it is also advisable to reference this clause in the notice ¹³, reminding the tenant that the increase is in line with the terms they initially agreed to. Furthermore, while not always legally required, requesting confirmation of receipt of the notice from the tenant ¹³ can provide the landlord with assurance that the tenant has been duly informed. Finally, it is essential to maintain a professional and respectful tone in all communications regarding the rent increase ¹⁶, as this can help to mitigate any potential negative reactions from the tenant and foster a more constructive dialogue.

5. Justifiable Reasons for Rent Increases

Several legitimate factors can influence the rental value of a property and provide justifiable grounds for a landlord to consider a rent increase. One primary factor is the prevailing market conditions and the rental rates being charged for comparable properties in the same geographical area ²². Conducting thorough research to understand the typical rental rates for properties with similar characteristics, such as size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and amenities, in the same neighborhood is a crucial step for landlords ²². This market analysis provides objective evidence that the proposed rent is in line with the current value of similar properties, making the increase more justifiable and less likely to be perceived as arbitrary by tenants or challenged legally. Various elements contribute to property valuation in Nigeria, including the property’s location relative to essential amenities and infrastructure, the specific type of property (e.g., flat, duplex, bungalow), its overall size and layout, the age and condition of the building, its accessibility to transportation networks, and the general level of demand for rental properties in that particular area ²². Positive changes or improvements in any of these factors since the last rent adjustment could potentially warrant a rent increase. The hedonic pricing model, which considers both the structural attributes of a property and its location attributes, further underscores the multifaceted nature of rental value determination ²³. Landlords can use insights from this model to justify increases based on specific improvements to these attributes or positive developments in the surrounding location.

Another significant factor that can necessitate rent adjustments is inflation and the rising cost of living ¹. As the general cost of goods and services increases due to inflation, landlords often face higher expenses related to property maintenance, utilities (if included in the rent), and property taxes ²¹. To maintain the quality of the rental property and ensure a reasonable return on their investment, landlords may need to adjust rents to reflect these increased operational costs. Furthermore, the depreciation of the local currency, such as the Nigerian Naira ³¹, can lead to higher costs for imported building materials and other supplies required for property upkeep and renovations. Landlords may need to factor these increased import costs into their rental pricing, especially if they have recently undertaken or plan to undertake significant repairs or improvements that rely on imported materials. Clearly communicating these rising economic pressures to tenants can help them understand the rationale behind a rent increase that might otherwise seem unexpected.

Investments in property improvements, renovations, and upgrades to existing amenities also constitute a justifiable reason for a rent increase ¹. When landlords make significant enhancements to the rental property that directly benefit the tenants and improve the overall living experience, it is generally reasonable to adjust the rent accordingly ¹. These improvements could range from modernizing essential facilities like kitchens and bathrooms to adding security features, upgrading common areas, or providing new amenities such as air conditioning or high-speed internet access. By investing in the property, landlords enhance its value and appeal, and a rent increase can be seen as a way to recoup some of these investment costs while providing tenants with an improved living environment. It is important for landlords to clearly communicate the nature and benefits of these improvements to their tenants when proposing a rent increase.

Finally, an increase in the general demand for rental properties in a particular area, often driven by factors such as urbanization and population growth ²⁷, can also justify higher rental rates ²⁷. In urban centers experiencing rapid development and an influx of new residents, the demand for housing can often outpace the available supply, leading to a natural increase in market rental values. Landlords in such areas may be justified in increasing their rents to align with these prevailing market conditions, especially if their current rental rates are below the market equilibrium. Demonstrating that the demand for rental properties in the specific location has risen can provide a solid rationale for a rent adjustment.

The following table summarizes the justifiable reasons for rent increases with brief explanations and supporting snippet IDs:

6. Common Practices and Prevailing Market Rates

In the Nigerian rental market, a common practice regarding the frequency of rent increases involves annual, biennial, or triennial reviews ¹. These intervals are often stipulated within the rent review clause of the tenancy agreement, providing a predictable schedule for both landlords and tenants ¹. The specific timeframe for review can be influenced by various factors, including the prevailing economic climate, the dynamics of the local rental market, and the individual landlord’s investment objectives.

The average percentage by which rents are increased in Nigeria can vary considerably depending on the specific location and the prevailing economic conditions ²⁵. Major urban centers characterized by high demand for housing, such as Lagos and Abuja, often experience more substantial rent increases compared to less densely populated areas. Similarly, periods of rapid inflation and economic instability tend to correlate with larger percentage increases in rental costs. Reports from various sources indicate that rent increases in major Nigerian cities have ranged from 20% to over 100%, particularly during times of significant economic pressure ²⁹. For instance, during periods of high inflation, the cost of accommodation in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt has reportedly surged by over 100% between 2019 and 2022 ³³. More recent data from the Risevest Cost of Living Report 2024 suggests that rents in Lagos and Abuja have risen by as much as 20-30% in the past year ³⁰. However, it is crucial to note that such substantial increases can face resistance from tenants and may be subject to legal challenges if deemed unreasonable, especially in states with tenant protection laws.

Several factors contribute to the extent of rent increases observed in Nigeria ¹. These include the specific terms outlined in the lease agreement, the relevant state tenancy laws and any existing rent control regulations, the prevailing market conditions and the level of demand for rental properties in the specific location, any significant improvements or renovations that have been made to the property, and in some informal rental settings, even customary practices within the local community can play a role in influencing rent adjustments. Landlords typically consider a combination of these factors when determining the appropriate level of rent increase for their properties.

7. Tenant Rights and Protection Against Unfair Rent Hikes

Tenants in Nigeria possess several rights designed to protect them from unfair or arbitrary rent increases. One fundamental right is the entitlement to a valid notice to quit before being lawfully evicted from a rented property ¹⁰. This means that if a tenant refuses to pay a rent increase they believe is unjust, the landlord cannot simply resort to immediate eviction but must follow the legally prescribed procedures, which include serving a proper notice to quit and, if the tenant does not vacate, potentially seeking a court order for possession.

In states like Lagos, the Tenancy Law provides a specific and significant protection to tenants by granting them the right to challenge rent increases deemed unreasonable in a court of law ³. Under this law, an existing tenant has the legal right to apply to the court for an order declaring that a proposed increase in rent is unreasonable ⁵. When assessing such applications, the court will typically take into account various factors, including the general level of rents for similar properties in the same locality or comparable areas ⁶. If the court determines that the increase is indeed unreasonable, it has the authority to order that the rent be adjusted to a specific amount that is considered fair ⁶. Furthermore, the Lagos State Tenancy Law provides an additional layer of protection by stipulating that it is unlawful for a landlord to evict a tenant from any premises while a court action challenging the reasonableness of a rent increase is still ongoing ⁶. This prevents landlords from using eviction as a tactic to pressure tenants into accepting a disputed rent hike before a judicial determination has been made.

Beyond these legal avenues, tenants in Nigeria generally have the right to negotiate a proposed rent increase with their landlord ⁵. Rent increases are often viewed as a matter subject to discussion and agreement between the landlord and the tenant ⁵. Before implementing a rent increase, landlords are typically expected to consult with their tenants, propose the new rent, and be open to dialogue and potential compromise. A unilateral imposition of a rent increase without any prior consultation can be considered unreasonable and may be challenged by the tenant. Moreover, tenants have the right to a written tenancy agreement that clearly outlines the initial rent amount and any terms pertaining to rent reviews or potential increases ¹⁰. This written agreement provides a clear record of the conditions agreed upon at the commencement of the tenancy, offering protection against subsequent disputes over rental costs.

Despite these protections, tenant rights in Nigeria are not without limitations and potential challenges. One significant issue is the lack of uniform and consistently enforced rent control laws across all states ¹. This can leave tenants in some states more vulnerable to arbitrary rent increases compared to those in states with stronger regulatory frameworks. Additionally, some state tenancy laws may contain exemptions for properties located in high-value areas, granting landlords in these prime locations greater freedom in setting and increasing rent, potentially limiting the legal recourse available to tenants in such areas ⁶. Furthermore, the prevailing view of the landlord-tenant relationship as primarily a commercial one, largely governed by market forces ⁶, can sometimes place greater emphasis on the landlord’s right to maximize returns, potentially overshadowing the need for affordable and stable housing for tenants in the absence of robust regulatory enforcement.

8. Navigating Rent Increase Negotiations and Dispute Resolution

When a landlord proposes a rent increase, both parties should approach the negotiation process with a constructive mindset. Tenants can prepare for negotiations by conducting thorough research on the prevailing rental rates for comparable properties in their locality ²². This market data will enable them to make informed counteroffers based on objective evidence, strengthening their position in the discussion. Additionally, tenants can highlight their strengths as reliable occupants, such as a consistent history of timely rent payments, a commitment to a longer tenancy period, or a willingness to handle minor maintenance responsibilities ¹¹. Emphasizing these positive attributes can make landlords more receptive to negotiating the proposed rent increase.

For their part, landlords should strive for transparency by clearly articulating the reasons behind the proposed rent adjustment ¹³. Whether the increase is necessitated by rising inflation, increased maintenance costs, or recent property improvements, providing a clear rationale can help tenants understand the situation and potentially be more accepting of a reasonable increase. Both landlords and tenants should be open to compromise and seek mutually agreeable solutions ⁴¹. Exploring options such as a slightly lower increase or the landlord agreeing to make specific property improvements in exchange for the tenant’s acceptance of the new rent can lead to positive outcomes for both parties.

In situations where negotiations over a rent increase reach an impasse, several dispute resolution mechanisms are available. Mediation offers a less confrontational and often more affordable alternative to litigation ¹. Engaging a neutral third-party mediator can help facilitate communication between the landlord and tenant, identify areas of common ground, and guide them towards a mutually acceptable resolution. In Lagos State, the Citizens Mediation Centre (CMC) provides free mediation services, making this option more accessible ⁴⁵. Some states have also established Rent Tribunals or similar bodies specifically to handle landlord-tenant disputes, including those related to rent increases ¹. These tribunals often offer a more streamlined legal process compared to traditional courts. As a final resort, tenants have the option to pursue legal action to challenge a rent increase they believe is unreasonable, particularly in states with strong tenant protection laws like Lagos ⁵. In such cases, consulting with legal professionals who specialize in property law can provide invaluable advice and representation throughout the dispute resolution process ⁵.

9. Best Practices for Landlord-Tenant Communication

Throughout the entire process of considering and implementing a rent increase, maintaining transparent, respectful, and timely communication with tenants is of paramount importance ¹¹. Landlords should strive to communicate clearly and respectfully with their tenants at all times ¹¹, as this fosters a more positive and professional relationship. Establishing open lines of communication from the very beginning of the tenancy ⁴³ creates an environment where tenants feel comfortable raising concerns or asking questions, including those related to potential rent adjustments. Responding promptly to tenant inquiries and concerns regarding rent increases demonstrates that the landlord values their perspective and is committed to addressing their needs ¹³. Being transparent about the reasons for any rent adjustment ¹³ helps tenants understand the rationale behind the change and can make it seem more reasonable. It is also advisable for landlords to maintain a record of all communication related to rent increases ¹, as this documentation can be helpful in case of any future disagreements. Finally, practicing active listening and showing empathy when tenants express concerns about a rent increase ⁴⁴ can help de-escalate tensions and facilitate a more constructive dialogue.

10. Crafting a Legally Sound Rent Increase Notice

To ensure a rent increase is properly communicated and legally sound, a landlord should include several essential components in the notice provided to the tenant:

• Date of the notice: Clearly indicate when the notice is being issued ¹⁶.
• Tenant’s full name and address: Address the notice to the specific tenant(s) residing at the property ¹⁶.
• Property address: Specify the exact address of the rental property ¹⁶.
• Current rent amount: State the tenant’s current monthly rent ¹⁶.
• New rent amount: Clearly indicate the new monthly rent that will be effective ¹⁶.
• Effective date of the rent increase: Specify the exact date from which the new rent amount will be payable ¹⁶.
• Clear and concise reason for the increase: Provide a brief explanation for the rent adjustment, such as rising maintenance costs due to inflation, current market rates for comparable properties, or recent significant property improvements ¹⁶.
• Reference to the rent review clause (if applicable): If the tenancy agreement includes a rent review clause, make a reference to it, stating that the increase is in accordance with the agreed terms ¹³.
• Request for confirmation of receipt (optional but recommended): Include a line asking the tenant to acknowledge receipt of the notice ¹³.
• Landlord’s contact information: Provide a phone number and/or email address where the tenant can reach the landlord with any questions or concerns ¹⁶.
• Statement regarding other lease terms: Include a brief statement confirming that all other terms and conditions of the existing tenancy agreement remain unchanged ¹⁸.
• Professional closing and landlord’s signature: End with a professional closing and the landlord’s signature, along with their printed name or company name and title ¹⁶.

Below is a sample format for a rent increase notice that incorporates these essential components:

[Your Name/Landlord Company Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]




**Subject: Notice of Rent Increase**

Dear,

This letter serves as formal notification that the monthly rent for the property located at [Property Address] will be increased, effective [Date of Increase].

Your current monthly rent is. The new monthly rent will be, representing a [Percentage] increase.

This rent adjustment is necessary due to [Clearly state the reason for the increase, e.g., rising maintenance costs due to inflation, current market rates for comparable properties in the area, recent significant improvements made to the property].].

Please confirm receipt of this notice. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

All other terms and conditions of your existing tenancy agreement remain in full force and effect.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

11. Conclusion

Properly increasing rent on a property in Nigeria necessitates a careful and informed approach that respects both the legal framework and the rights of tenants. Landlords must prioritize adherence to state-specific tenancy laws, such as the Lagos State Tenancy Law, and ensure that their practices align with the regulations governing rent adjustments, notice periods, and the grounds for increasing rent. A well-drafted tenancy agreement, particularly one that includes a clear rent review clause, serves as a crucial foundation for managing rent expectations and minimizing disputes. Providing adequate and timely written notice to tenants, detailing the reasons for the increase, and maintaining a professional and respectful tone throughout the process are essential best practices. Rent increases should be justifiable based on legitimate factors such as prevailing market conditions, inflation and rising costs, property improvements, and increased demand. Landlords should also be aware of common practices and prevailing market rates in their specific location to ensure their proposed rent is reasonable and competitive. Finally, recognizing and respecting tenant rights, including the right to negotiate and challenge unreasonable rent hikes, is crucial for fostering a positive and sustainable landlord-tenant relationship. By adhering to these principles, landlords can navigate the complexities of rent increases in Nigeria in a manner that is both legally compliant and ethically sound, balancing their right to a fair return on investment with the tenant’s right to fair treatment and stable housing.