The Lagos State Government on Friday handed over keys of 200 more housing units to successful allottees in the second allotment exercise of its “Rent-To-Own” Housing Scheme.
The allottees took possession of their units located in Epe, Ikorodu, Agbowa and Ojokoro at an event held at the state secretariat in Alausa, Lagos.
Mr Gbolahan Lawal, the State Commissioner for Housing, who handed over the keys, said that 75 of the initial 100 allottees had already occupied their apartments.
Lawal urged others to take possession as soon as possible.
“You may recall that on Feb. 20, the first set of 100 allottees received keys to their apartments under this scheme.
“I am happy to inform you that 75 people have moved into our housing schemes out of the initial 100 units allocated and are enjoying their new homes.
“We urge others to quickly take possession so that the objectives of the policy can be fully realised,’’ he said.
The commissioner said that the idea of the scheme was prompted by the need to make accommodation available to as many Lagos residents as possible.
“The need to create a new face of accommodation for Lagosians, especially the low and middle income earners, has become imperative due to the ever-increasing population.
“Every interested resident is qualified to apply without having to know anyone in government.
“Under this policy, all that the prospective homeowners need to do is to pay a five per cent commitment fee, take possession, and pay up the remaining balance towards ownership over a period of 10 years,” he said.
Lawal said the government would continue to hand over apartments to successful allottees monthly.
Mr Dehinde Tunwase, General Manager, Lagos State Mortgage Board, urged Lagosians to take advantage of the scheme to become homeowners, assuring them that the apartments were well-located
“Our estates, which are located in serene and beautifully gated communities, are usually equipped with modern facilities like water treatment plants, healthcare centres and adequate parking spaces, among others,’’ he said.
Some of the allottees told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the Lagos State Government initiative was commendable.
Mr Olalekan Ayinde, one of the beneficiaries, expressed satisfaction with the scheme.
“I thank the governor, the commissioner for housing, and other stakeholders behind this scheme.
“I saw the information online and decided to try my luck by applying; the process was seamless, and I did not need to lobby anybody,’’ he said.
Another excited allottee, Mrs Benedicta Nwora, commended the scheme, saying she was so grateful for the opportunity.
“I saw the scheme launched on television, so I applied.
“I am from Anambra State and I did not know anybody; I just applied and I am collecting the keys today,” Nwora said.
Mr Folorunsho Quadri, also an allottee, said: “I am elated at this achievement and I say a big thank you to the governor and the commissioner.
“I am not leaving out all those in charge of the housing sector.’’
NAN reports that Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State launched the Rent-To-Own scheme on Dec. 8, 2016, as a means of bridging the huge housing deficit in the state.(NAN)
KAE/GA/COF/SOA