Sanwo-Olu Says Land Prices in Ikeja Have Risen Above N3m Per Square Metre

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has raised concerns over the rising cost of land in Ikeja, saying the high prices are making it difficult for low-income earners to live in the area.

The governor disclosed that the average cost of land in Ikeja is slightly above ₦3 million per square metre.

He made this known during his acceptance speech after being recognised as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) at its 57th Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting held in Ikeja.

Sanwo-Olu was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide.

The governor explained that his administration had invested heavily in rail transportation to make it easier for people living outside central Lagos to commute to work.

He said the investment would allow residents to live in areas such as Agbado and travel daily to the central parts of Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu also said building a city that would serve future generations required proper planning, discipline and long-term decisions.

He noted that as his administration approached the end of its tenure, the government would focus on strengthening existing institutions and ensuring that Lagos continued to develop in an organised manner.

The governor also highlighted the importance of town planners in addressing the challenges facing Lagos, including population growth, housing shortages, infrastructure development and environmental protection.

He explained that these challenges had influenced government decisions on railway and road infrastructure, urban regeneration and physical planning.

Sanwo-Olu added that the government’s goal was to make Lagos a more organised, liveable and prosperous city, noting that the Red Line train had recently been opened to improve transportation within the state.

He assured members of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners that the state government would continue to work with professionals to support proper urban development.