The removal of petrol subsidy in Nigeria has dealt a severe blow to Nigerians, particularly those residing in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. In more ways than one, the cost of living has surged, with one notable area being housing and accommodation across the nation.
Reports indicate a sharp increase in rental prices throughout Abuja. In densely populated areas like Kubwa, within the FCT, rents have spiralled. Self-contained apartments and three-bedroom flats now command prices ranging from N150,000 to N700,000.
In Lugbe, another satellite town, the cost of a solitary self-contained room has escalated to between N250,000 and N400,000. Meanwhile, a mini flat now demands N400,000, and a two-bedroom abode carries a price tag of N700,000.
In Jikwoyi, rental costs span from N200,000 to N350,000 for mini flats and two-bedroom residences, respectively. Similarly, in Nyanya, a single room fetches N140,000, while a two-bedroom apartment varies from N400,000 to N500,000, contingent on its location.
In Dutse, the rental for a self-contained unit ranges from N120,000 to N150,000; a one-bedroom flat commands between N200,000 and N250,000; and a two-bedroom dwelling fetches from N300,000 to N400,000.
Moving to Marraba, a self-contained room leases for N80,000 to N100,000; a one-bedroom apartment ranges from N120,000 to N150,000; and a two-bedroom residence commands N150,000 to N200,000, respectively.
Within the city centre, such as in the Jabi and Life Camp areas, rental prices further soar. A self-contained room demands between N400,000 and N450,000, while a one-bedroom flat requires N600,000. Moreover, two-bedroom accommodations are priced from N800,000 to N1 million, while three-bedroom dwellings range from N1.3 million to N1.5 million.
In Gwarimpa, a single room rents for N350,000 to N380,000, whereas a down payment of N2.5 million is necessary to secure a two-bedroom flat, with duplexes commanding N800,000 per annum.
