Lagos: The Lagos State Government has urged residents to obtain planning permits before developing their properties. The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, made the appeal during a public awareness programme organised on Thursday in Ojo.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the programme was organised by the ministry and the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority for residents, community leaders, and other stakeholders in Ojo, Badagry, Iba, Oto-Awori, Amuwo-Odofin, Oriade, and Olorunda districts. Olumide stated that the programme was part of the ministry’s regular engagements to educate the public on the requirements and benefits of obtaining planning permits. He emphasized that having a permit is a legal requirement and ensures that buildings are constructed safely, protecting both people and government interests.
Olumide further explained that a planning permit increases a property’s value and facilitates access to loans or embassy verification. He warned that property owners who develop without a permit would face penalties, including charges four times higher than normal and potential demolition if the building is unsuitable. He advised residents against bribing ministry officials and assured them of a professional process, highlighting that obtaining a planning permit in Lagos takes just 10 working days once all requirements are met.
Responding to calls for an extension of the planning permit amnesty, Olumide noted that the last amnesty, granted by Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ran from May 1 to Dec. 31, 2024. A new request for an extension has been forwarded to the governor for consideration. The Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Mr Oluwole Sotire, stressed the importance of public participation in effective physical planning and addressed concerns about poor road conditions in Alaba, indicating that a committee has been set up to review past demolitions and recommend improvements. Sotire urged residents to pay their taxes to support government funding of projects.
The President of Alaba International Market Association, Dr Camilus Amajuoyi, praised the government’s engagement with stakeholders and appealed for an extension of the amnesty period, noting that less than 30 per cent of buildings in Lagos have approvals. He also called for road improvements in Alaba, highlighting frequent container accidents and the need for international standard upgrades.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the aim of the awareness programme is to strengthen collaboration between government agencies, community leaders, and residents on issues of urban development and safety.