In Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital, the pursuit of comfortable living increasingly comes with a hefty price tag. Patrick Oke’s experience at Kayfarm Estate in Obawole, Ifako-Ijaiye, offers a window into the complex world of estate living and its associated costs. Despite paying a substantial N2.8 million in annual rent for his two-bedroom apartment, Oke faces an additional N300,000 yearly service charge – a growing reality for many Lagos residents.
The Breakdown of Estate Services
Kayfarm Estate’s service structure provides residents with several essential amenities:
- Regular security surveillance and access control
- Twice-weekly cleaning of communal areas
- Reliable water supply systems
- Comprehensive waste management
- Maintenance of both asphalt and interlocked streets
“The top-notch security, regular cleaning twice a week, and reliable water supply make the cost worthwhile,” Oke explains, noting that these services mirror those of more expensive estates but at a relatively lower cost.
A Comparative Analysis
The estate living landscape in Lagos reveals stark contrasts in service charges:
- Mid-Range Estates (Like Kayfarm)
- Annual service charge: N300,000 – N500,000
- Direct electricity billing through distribution companies
- Basic but reliable security measures
- Regular maintenance services
- High-End Estates (Lekki, Victoria Island, Ikoyi)
- Annual service charges ranging from N800,000 to over N1 million
- Often include premium services like 24-hour power supply
- Advanced security systems with digital access control
- Professional facility management
The Broader Context
As Lagos continues its rapid urbanization, estate living has become increasingly attractive to those seeking security and comfort. However, this trend has led to a significant rise in associated costs. Estate managers justify these charges through:
- Infrastructure maintenance
- Security personnel salaries
- Utility management
- Common area upkeep
- Administrative overhead
The Value Proposition
While the service charges might seem steep, many residents find value in the convenience and security provided. As Temidayo, a property manager in Lekki, notes, “Some estates even supply 24-hour electricity to residents, buying power directly from the Discos and redistributing it. While it’s more expensive than the usual tariff, it guarantees round-the-clock power.”
Challenges and Concerns
Despite the benefits, several issues persist:
- Lack of standardization in service charge structures
- Limited transparency in expense allocation
- Varying quality of services across different estates
- Rising costs without corresponding improvement in services
- Enforcement measures like electricity disconnection for non-payment
The Future Outlook
As Lagos continues to grow, the demand for estate living is expected to increase further. This trend suggests that service charges will remain a significant aspect of housing costs in the city. However, residents are increasingly calling for:
- More transparent pricing structures
- Better value for money
- Standardized service delivery
- Improved accountability from estate management
For residents like Patrick Oke, while the current charges represent a significant financial commitment, the benefits of enhanced security, reliable utilities, and maintained infrastructure make it a worthwhile investment in their quality of life.

Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.