Government Housing Policies and Workers’ Affordability Assessment in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Housing affordability remains a major socio-economic challenge for workers in Lagos State, Nigeria, despite government interventions through various housing policies and programmes. Rapid urbanisation, escalating land and construction costs, stagnant incomes, and weak policy implementation continue to restrict access to decent and affordable housing, especially for low- and middle-income public sector workers. This study empirically examines the effectiveness of government housing policies in addressing housing affordability, focusing on whether these policies translate into tangible affordable housing outcomes. It also explores workers’ perceptions of policy effectiveness, the affordability of government-backed housing schemes, the role of housing finance systems, and broader implications for quality of life. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, targeting employees across key housing- and finance-related ministries, departments, and parastatals. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through a multi-stage sampling technique. The instrument was validated for content and reliability, and data analysis employed descriptive and inferential statistics to identify patterns and assess relationships. Findings indicate that respondents widely perceive government housing policies as largely ineffective. Housing schemes are often unaffordable relative to income levels, exceeding global affordability benchmarks. Housing finance systems were viewed with mixed confidence, reflecting limited access to mortgages, rigid repayment conditions, and ineffective government-backed financing. The study concludes that government housing policies in Lagos State have failed to achieve intended affordability outcomes due to persistent affordability gaps, weak finance mechanisms, and governance challenges. Recommendations include comprehensive housing finance reforms, enforcement of income-based affordability standards, improved transparency and accountability in policy execution, and integration of housing with essential infrastructure.