Nigeria House of Representatives considers Abuja rent regulation bill

The Nigerian House of Representatives has commenced consideration of the Federal Capital Territory Advance Rent Regulation and Tenants’ Protection Bill, 2026 (HB. 2839). The bill passed its first reading on Thursday, 22 October.

Jointly sponsored by Paul Nnamchi and Ahmed Doro, the 17-page proposal aims to establish a regulatory framework for tenancy within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Key provisions include regulations for written agreements, estate agents, complaints, refunds, eviction practices, and dispute resolution.

A central component of the bill, found in Section 4(1), prohibits landlords, estate agents, or property managers from demanding, receiving, or compelling a tenant to pay more than twelve months of rent in advance as a condition for granting, renewing, or continuing a tenancy. The bill does not ban advance rent or mandate monthly payments, but sets a 12-month maximum for compulsory upfront payments.