By Sodiq Adelakun
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday commissioned the Lagos State Housing Estate, Ajara, Badagry Phase I, describing it as another bold step towards providing affordable, sustainable, and dignified housing for residents across the state.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Badagry Local Government Area, the Governor said the newly completed project marks the 24th housing estate delivered by his administration, symbolising progress towards achieving a “Greater Lagos where people live in dignity and productivity.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the project, which generated over 1,300 direct and indirect jobs during its construction, reflects his administration’s resolve to strengthen economic growth and reduce poverty through inclusive development.
He said: “It fills me with great joy to see our vision coming to life, a Lagos where people live in dignity, work productively, and contribute to a 21st-century economy that benefits everyone,” the Governor said. “Because the true measure of our progress will always be the wellbeing of our people.”
The Governor commended the people of Badagry for their cooperation and support, describing the historic town as “an essential part of the Lagos narrative” that has benefited from massive investments in roads, hospitals, schools, and tourism infrastructure.
He revealed that Phase I of the Ajara Estate comprises 420 fully completed housing units with modern facilities including paved roads, a water treatment plant, efficient drainage, secure perimeter fencing, a sewage treatment system, parking spaces, and an electrification network with transformers.
Governor Sanwo-Olu further announced the commencement of Phase II of the project, which will feature high-rise residential buildings of at least seven storeys, designed to optimise land use and expand housing access.
“This new phase will dramatically change Badagry’s skyline with high-rise buildings that will be at least seven stories tall,” he said. “It is a strategic move to make the most of our land resources and highlight the vast investment potential that exists in this corridor.”
Highlighting the government’s broader housing agenda, the Governor said his administration has successfully delivered over 10,000 homes across 23 completed estates in the past six years. Four additional schemes are currently underway, including: Lagos State Housing Estate, Ibeshe Phase II (192 units), Egan–Igando Mixed Housing Scheme, Clusters 2 & 3 (587 units), Epe Housing Scheme, Ita Marun (112 units)
LagosHOMS Sangotedo Phase II, Eti-Osa (524 units).
Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated the state’s alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Housing Agenda, stating that 20 percent of the new Badagry units have been reserved for members of the Medical Guild, Nigerian Union of Teachers (Lagos Chapter), and other public and private sector unions.
“Public servants will also receive rebates as a token of appreciation for their dedicated service to our State,” he added.
The Governor assured that the state would continue to create policies that enable private developers and investors to participate in mass housing delivery. He expressed full support for the Tenancy Bill currently before the Lagos State House of Assembly, which seeks to balance tenant-landlord relations and promote large-scale housing projects.
He also encouraged residents to embrace mortgage schemes to ease home ownership, while urging all beneficiaries to maintain their properties responsibly.
“Maintaining the buildings and infrastructure is a shared responsibility,” the Governor emphasised. “Please take pride in your estates, keep them clean and functional, and help maintain their value.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the state is exploring partnerships between the Ministry of Housing and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to power estate facilities with renewable energy, thereby cutting operational costs and promoting sustainability.
He commended the Ministry of Housing, contractors, and partners for their commitment to quality and professionalism, and expressed gratitude to the people of Badagry for their patience throughout the project.