Self contain (self contained, room self contain)

In Nigerian property, "self contain" (or "self-contained") means a unit whose facilities are its own. A room self contain is one room that serves as bedroom and living space, with a private bathroom and toilet attached, and often a small kitchen or kitchenette inside or just outside the room.

It sits at the bottom of the private-housing ladder:

• A face-me-I-face-you room shares the toilet, bathroom and kitchen with other tenants.
• A self contain has its own toilet and bathroom, so nothing is shared.
• A mini flat adds a separate sitting room (parlour) to the bedroom.

Because "self contained" describes facilities rather than size, you will also see it used for bigger units, for example a "room and parlour self contain" (which is a mini flat) or a "self contain BQ" at the back of a house.

Self contains are a common first home for students, young workers and single people. In Lagos they cluster in mainland areas such as Yaba, Surulere, Ikeja and Gbagada, and newer ones appear in Lekki and Ajah. In Abuja they are common in satellite towns and districts such as Lugbe, Kubwa and Gwarinpa.

Property Centre lists them under Flats and apartments, "Self contain".

• Lagos: "self con" and "room self contain" are everyday terms; newer units may be advertised with POP ceilings, tiled floors and a kitchenette.
• Abuja: the same word is used; some newer units are marketed as "studio" apartments.
• South-East and university towns: students may call similar rooms a "lodge" or hostel room, though these often share facilities.
• Kenya and Ghana: the nearest local words are "bedsitter" (Kenya) and "single room self-contained" (Ghana).