NoExuse in Building Safer Communities

At ZZT Comfortable Home, we believe that safe housing isn't just about luxury or comfort—it’s about creating secure environments where women can thrive without fear of violence or harassment.

In Lagos, the urban environment presents unique challenges. According to the Lagos State Government, 67% of violent crimes reported in the state occur in poorly monitored urban areas, including abandoned buildings. This highlights the urgent need for secure and well-maintained housing infrastructure.

The Connection Between Housing and Women’s Safety

For women, a safe home extends beyond four walls; it’s about the surrounding environment. A UN Women study reveals that 1 in 3 women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, often in places where basic safety measures are lacking. In Lagos, factors like poorly lit streets, unguarded buildings, and inadequate local security expose women to greater risks.

At ZZT Comfortable Home, we are committed to addressing these challenges by ensuring that our properties prioritize security, but there’s a broader need for the entire real estate sector to rise to the occasion.

Real Estate Solutions to Reduce Violence

1. Repurposing Abandoned Buildings

Abandoned or unoccupied buildings often become hotspots for crime, including violence against women. In Lagos, over 40% of reported urban crimes occur in or around neglected properties. Real estate developers can help by:

• Securing and repurposing abandoned structures into affordable housing or safe community hubs.

• Collaborating with local authorities to monitor these spaces using surveillance systems.

  
  

2. Strengthening Legislation

Strong policies and enforcement are crucial for improving urban safety. Currently, Lagos has over 10,000 abandoned properties, many of which lack monitoring. The real estate industry can advocate for laws that:

• Require property owners to maintain or redevelop vacant buildings within specified timeframes.

• Introduce tax incentives for developers prioritizing secure housing for vulnerable groups, including women.

  
  

3. Enhancing Local Security

Safety starts at the community level. A report by CLEEN Foundation found that 52% of Lagos residents feel unsafe in their neighborhoods at night. Real estate firms can:

• Invest in estate-level security measures, including CCTV cameras, trained security personnel, and perimeter fencing.

• Partner with local vigilante groups or community policing efforts to monitor high-risk areas.

  
  

4. Gender-Sensitive Urban Design

Urban planning must consider women’s safety. According to the UN-Habitat, well-designed spaces can reduce crime by up to 30%. Developers should prioritize:

• Well-lit streets and pathways.

• Open spaces designed for visibility and accessibility.

• Emergency call points strategically placed within estates or housing developments.

  
  

Collaboration for a Safer Lagos

Real change requires collective effort. By collaborating with government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders, the real estate sector can help create safer environments. Initiatives such as public awareness campaigns and safety workshops can also empower women to understand their rights and report unsafe conditions.

A Safer Future for All

At ZZT Comfortable Home, we are committed to building homes and communities where safety is not a privilege but a standard. On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we call on all stakeholders to join us in making Lagos a city where women can live, work, and thrive without fear.

Let’s eliminate violence, one community at a time; because a safer Lagos is a better Lagos for everyone.