ABSTRACT
The landlord-tenant relationship in Nigeria is a complex interplay of socio-cultural norms, legal frameworks, economic factors, and power dynamics. This study delves into the intricacies of this relationship, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of its various dimensions. Drawing upon the qualitative research methodology, this work examines the historical context, legal provisions, and socio-economic factors shaping the interactions between landlords and tenants in Nigeria. The research explores the challenges faced by both parties within this relationship, including issues of rent payment, property maintenance, eviction procedures, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Furthermore, it investigates the impact of cultural practices, such as the customary tenure system and traditional authority structures, on landlord-tenant dynamics. By analyzing relevant legislation, court decisions, and scholarly literature, this study identifies gaps and inconsistencies in the legal framework governing landlord-tenant relationships in Nigeria. It also highlights the role of informal institutions and social networks in shaping these interactions, often influencing outcomes more significantly than formal legal mechanisms. Moreover, this research examines the implications of the landlord-tenant relationship on housing access, affordability, and urban development in Nigeria. It discusses potential policy interventions and legal reforms aimed at fostering more equitable and harmonious relationships between landlords and tenants, while also promoting sustainable housing solutions. Ultimately, this work contributes to the broader discourse on property rights, social justice, and governance in Nigeria, offering insights that can inform policy-making, legal reforms, and community-based initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges faced by both landlords and tenants in the country. Conclusively, this work gives detailed recommendation that the parties in Landlord-tenant relationship should improve their communication skill, approach communication with positive and creative attitude and work to reduce barriers in dispute resolution and also day to day practices should be further attuned to support laid down laws of landlord-tenant relations in order to avoid problems which if not attended to perpetually result in disputes.
