In a bold move to sanitize the built environment, the Ogun State Government has handed down a 30-day deadline to all banking institutions operating within its territory to secure valid planning permits for their facilities or prepare for strict enforcement actions.
This directive was delivered by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tpl. Olatunji Odunlami, during a high-level engagement with bank representatives at the Ministry’s Conference Hall in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Odunlami emphasized that every property whether leased or owned used by banks must comply with the provisions of the 2022 Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Regulations. This includes not just their buildings but also installations such as antennas and signal towers, which fall under the state’s Outdoor Physical Furniture Regulation.
He reminded stakeholders that all physical developments whether above ground, underground, or over water—are subject to planning laws and must be regularized accordingly. According to the commissioner, the state has already issued prior notifications, and this gathering was the final olive branch before enforcement begins after the grace period lapses.
Speaking earlier, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engr. Sakirudeen Salaam, cautioned banks to act promptly, warning that non-compliance could lead to avoidable reputational setbacks for the financial institutions involved.
On behalf of the banking sector, Shamsudeen Oyeneye from Jaiz Bank acknowledged the government’s effort to clarify the process and pledged better cooperation moving forward.
The clock is ticking and the state says it won’t hesitate to act once the 30-day ultimatum expires.
