The Residential Tenancy Agreement serves as a foundational legal document in Nigerian property law, essential for formalizing the relationship between landlords and tenants in residential property rentals. This document is required whenever a property owner (landlord) intends to lease residential premises to a tenant in Nigeria, ensuring compliance with federal legislation such as the Recovery of Premises Act and state-specific tenancy laws. The agreement comprehensively covers rent terms, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and other crucial aspects of the tenancy relationship. It must be tailored to meet specific state requirements, as tenancy laws vary across Nigerian states, with some states like Lagos having more detailed regulatory frameworks. The document provides legal protection for both parties and serves as a reference point for resolving potential disputes throughout the tenancy period.

1. Parties: Identification of the landlord and tenant with full legal names, addresses, and contact details

2. Background: Brief context about the property and purpose of the agreement

3. Definitions: Definitions of key terms used throughout the agreement including 'Premises', 'Term', 'Rent', 'Security Deposit'

4. Demise: The formal grant of tenancy, specifying the property being let

5. Term and Commencement: Duration of the tenancy and start date

6. Rent and Payment Terms: Rent amount, payment frequency, method of payment, and due dates

7. Security Deposit: Amount, payment terms, and conditions for return of the security deposit

8. Utilities and Services: Responsibility for payment of utilities, services, and other charges

9. Tenant's Obligations: Comprehensive list of tenant's responsibilities including maintenance, use of premises, and conduct

10. Landlord's Obligations: Comprehensive list of landlord's responsibilities including repairs, maintenance, and statutory obligations

11. Repairs and Maintenance: Detailed breakdown of repair and maintenance responsibilities

12. Insurance: Requirements for insurance coverage by both parties

13. Access and Inspection: Landlord's rights of access and inspection procedures

14. Termination: Conditions and procedures for termination of the tenancy

15. Notices: Process for serving notices between parties

16. Governing Law: Specification of Nigerian law and relevant state jurisdiction