Why I Stay in a Rented Apartment Even After Buying Multiple Homes – Ola’s 2026 Insight

When asked why I stay in rented apartment despite owning several houses, Waris Olayinka Akinwande – better known as Ola of Lagos – gave a candid answer that surprised many. Speaking on the KK Show in September 2026, the influencer and entrepreneur revealed that his choice is rooted in security, flexibility and a desire to keep his personal life simple. Ola’s story offers a fresh perspective for Nigerians and Africans who grapple with the pressures of property ownership in today’s fast‑moving cities.

Security and Peace of Mind in a Rented Apartment

First and foremost, Ola emphasises safety. He confessed that he has never slept in any of the houses he bought with his own money because he feared they could become targets for theft or fraud. In a country where property disputes can drag on for years, a rented apartment in a well‑managed complex offers a controlled environment with 24‑hour security, CCTV and professional maintenance staff. This peace of mind outweighs the pride of owning a house, especially for someone whose public profile makes him a potential target.

Security is a common concern across Africa. In South Africa, for example, gated communities have become the norm for affluent families seeking similar assurances. Ola’s decision mirrors a broader trend where the perceived safety of a managed rental outweighs the allure of a private residence.

Financial Flexibility and Liquidity

Owning multiple properties sounds like a solid investment, but it also ties up capital. Ola explains that by keeping his primary residence a rental, he retains liquidity to fund his various business ventures – from tech startups to fashion collaborations. In 2026, the Nigerian fintech scene is booming, and entrepreneurs need quick access to cash for rapid scaling. A rented apartment means he can redirect funds that would otherwise be locked in mortgage payments or property taxes.

Moreover, the rental market in Lagos has become increasingly lucrative. Prime locations such as Victoria Island and Ikoyi command high monthly rents, providing a steady income stream that can be reinvested elsewhere. Ola’s strategy reflects a savvy approach to wealth management that many young African entrepreneurs are adopting.

Mobility and Lifestyle Freedom

Ola’s career demands frequent travel across the continent – from attending fashion weeks in Johannesburg to pitching tech ideas in Nairobi. A rented apartment offers the flexibility to move without the hassle of selling or renting out a personal home. When he is away for months, his landlord can simply continue the lease, ensuring the property remains occupied and maintained.

This mobility is especially valuable in a continent where cross‑border collaborations are on the rise. Ghanaian musicians, Kenyan developers, and Egyptian designers are all part of a growing network that relies on fluid movement. By staying in a rental, Ola aligns his living situation with the demands of a pan‑African creative and business ecosystem.

Emotional Detachment from Property

Beyond practicalities, Ola shares an emotional reason: he does not want his sense of self to be tied to bricks and mortar. He believes that true comfort comes from the people you share moments with, not the walls that surround you. This mindset resonates with a younger generation that values experiences over material possessions.

In Nigeria, the “hustle” culture often equates success with owning a house in a prestigious neighbourhood. Ola’s narrative challenges that notion, suggesting that personal fulfillment can be found in a well‑chosen rental that supports one’s ambitions without becoming a status symbol.

Tax Implications and Legal Simplicity

From a fiscal perspective, renting simplifies tax reporting. Owning multiple properties involves property tax, capital gains considerations, and sometimes complex inheritance laws. By keeping his main residence a rental, Ola reduces the administrative burden and avoids potential disputes with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) over property valuations.

Legal experts in 2026 note that property ownership in Nigeria still faces challenges such as title verification and land‑use disputes. A rental agreement, on the other hand, is a straightforward contract that can be terminated with proper notice, providing a clean exit strategy if circumstances change.

Community and Networking Opportunities

Living in a high‑end apartment complex also places Ola in a community of like‑minded professionals – from fellow influencers to expatriates and corporate executives. These informal networks often spark collaborations that would be harder to initiate from a private house in a secluded suburb.

In Lagos, co‑working spaces and residential complexes are increasingly integrated, offering shared lounges, rooftop events and networking sessions. Ola’s rented apartment situates him at the heart of this ecosystem, reinforcing his brand and business reach.

FAQ

• Q: Does renting mean Ola is not financially successful? A: Not at all. Renting is a strategic choice that preserves liquidity and offers flexibility for his multiple ventures.
• Q: Could security concerns be mitigated by hiring private guards? A: While possible, the cost and logistics of private security often exceed the convenience of a secure rental complex.
• Q: Is this approach common among other African influencers? A: Yes, many high‑profile individuals across Ghana, Kenya and South Africa prefer rentals for similar reasons – safety, mobility and networking.

Ola’s candid confession on the KK Show underscores a shift in how affluent Africans view property. Rather than seeing a house as the ultimate status symbol, many now consider the broader picture: security, financial agility, lifestyle freedom and the intangible value of community. As the continent’s economies continue to evolve, the choice to stay in a rented apartment despite owning multiple homes may become a hallmark of modern, forward‑thinking wealth management.

For readers curious about navigating property decisions in 2026 and beyond, Ola’s story serves as a reminder that personal priorities often outweigh conventional expectations. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a creative professional, or simply someone weighing the pros and cons of home ownership, the key is to align your living arrangement with your long‑term goals and the realities of today’s African urban landscape.

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