REPEAL OF THE RENT CONTROL AND RECOVERY OF RESIDENTIAL PREMISES LAW, 2007 AND ENACTMENT OF THE KOGI STATE TENANCY LAW, 2025: NIESV KOGI STATE BRANCH PARTICIPATES IN PUBLIC HEARING
REPEAL OF THE RENT CONTROL AND RECOVERY OF RESIDENTIAL PREMISES LAW, 2007 AND ENACTMENT OF THE KOGI STATE TENANCY LAW, 2025: NIESV KOGI STATE BRANCH PARTICIPATES IN PUBLIC HEARING
The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Kogi State Branch, participated in the public hearing held on Tuesday, 30th June, 2026, at the Kogi State House of Assembly. The hearing centered on a Bill for a Law to repeal the Rent Control and Recovery of Residential Premises Law, 2007, and enact the Kogi State Tenancy Law and Other Matters Connected Thereto, 2025.
I had the privilege of representing the NIESV Kogi State Branch as its 4th Chairman (ESV John O. Eniwaiye, mnivs) at this timely public hearing. Organized by the Committee on Finance and Economic Planning, the Bill was sponsored by Hon. Akus Lawal, representing the Ankpa-I State Constituency.
Our Position and Key Submissions
In our presentation, our position paper highlighted specific aspects of the Bill that impact the regulatory role of ESVARBON, alongside proposed amendments to ensure the harmonious and effective implementation of the law. We believe our input will contribute to the development of robust, balanced legislation that protects the interests of all stakeholders in the real estate sector.
Rather than focusing solely on the roles of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, our professional body holistically reviewed the entirety of the proposed Bill and submitted the following recommendations:
- Statutory Regulation: The Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON or "The Board") is a Federal Agency established by the Estate Surveyors and Valuers (Registration, etc.) Act Cap. E13 LFN 2004. It determines who qualifies as an Estate Surveyor and Valuer (ESV) and regulates the practice of the profession across Nigeria (See Section 2 of the ESVARBON Act).
- National Practice Mandate: Section 17(2) of the ESVARBON Act entitles every registered Estate Surveyor and Valuer to practice throughout the Federation. Furthermore, Section 31(f) of the Estate Surveying and Valuation Regulations, 2014 (made pursuant to Section 18 of the Act) explicitly defines selling, buying, or letting real or personal property as an agent as a core aspect of the profession.
- Exemption of Registered Professionals: Section 13(d) of the proposed Bill inadvertently undermines the regulatory authority of ESVARBON by failing to exempt registered Estate Surveyors and Valuers from its provisions. We strongly recommend exempting ESVs from regulations aimed at unregulated, informal agents.
- Strategic Representation on the Tenancy Board: For effective delivery of its functions, we suggested that the Director of Lands (who must be an ESV) at the Bureau of Lands, and the Head of Department (HOD) of Estate and Facility Management at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, be included as members of the Tenancy Board.
- Protection of Professional Boundaries: Other recommendations include upholding the regulatory powers of ESVARBON, limiting the Bill's registration and licensing requirements for "agents" strictly to individuals not registered with ESVARBON, and preventing encroachments on professional services legally reserved for ESVs.
Acknowledgements and Appreciation
The pivotal roles played by members of NIESV Kogi State Branch made this presentation possible. I extend my deep gratitude to our respected elders and members who created time to attend the meeting at the Assembly complex.
The move to repeal the 2007 law in favor of the proposed Tenancy Bill is both worthwhile and timely. This legislation will undoubtedly aid transparency, curb sharp practices and exorbitant rents, eliminate unnecessary lease terms on private residential properties, sanitize the real estate industry, boost investor confidence, and protect the interests of all Kogites and residents.
I commend the Distinguished Honourable Speaker, the leadership of the Kogi State House of Assembly, and the Committee for organizing this public hearing and providing a platform for stakeholders to contribute. Special thanks go to the sponsor of this timely Bill, Hon. Akus Lawal (Ankpa-I State Constituency).
Commitment to the State
NIESV, regulated by ESVARBON, remains committed to collaborating with the Kogi State Government to create a secure, investor-friendly real estate sector. Together, we can build a thriving, sustainable market that drives the state's economic growth. The NIESV Kogi State Branch stands ready to deploy its disciplinary organs to enforce strict codes of conduct and ethical standards, ensuring appropriate sanctions for any member found wanting.
It was a long day at the Assembly complex, but it ended in success to the glory of God. We look forward to the progressive outcome of this Bill.
I remain determined, focused, and always ready to actualize the blueprints of this administration, which align perfectly with the 7-Pillar Agenda of the 27th President of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV).
Photos excerpt of members at the State House of Assembly Complex, Lokoja.












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