The Lagos State Government has launched a three-month amnesty programme for property owners whose buildings lack official planning approval, in a bid to streamline development and enforce urban planning laws across the state.
The initiative was announced by Mr. Kehinde Osinaike, General Manager of the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), who emphasized the importance of obtaining planning permits before commencing any construction or development activities.
Osinaike explained that the amnesty period offers property owners a chance to regularize their structures without immediate penalties, aligning with efforts to promote organized and sustainable urban growth in line with the Lagos State Master Plan.
“Planning approval is not only a legal requirement but also a tool for orderly development. It ensures that homes, schools, healthcare facilities, businesses, and roads are integrated into a balanced and functional urban environment,” he said.
He further noted that compliance with planning regulations not only enhances property value but also reduces exposure to legal and structural risks for developers and buyers.
Speaking on the benefits of proper documentation, Mr. Olarinde Iyiola, Head of LASPPPA’s Monitoring and Compliance Unit, added that buildings constructed without permits may pose safety concerns and negatively impact the environment.
“Buildings that meet planning standards are more likely to be structurally sound, safer for residents, and more attractive to investors,” Iyiola stated.
The state government urged residents and developers to take advantage of the amnesty window, stressing that after the grace period, stricter enforcement actions would be taken against violators.
Officials emphasized that the goal is not punitive, but rather to bring all developments in line with the city’s master plan and ensure a safer, more livable Lagos for all.
