The Lagos State Government has sealed more than 20 properties in Ikeja Local Government Area for violating physical planning regulations, as authorities intensify enforcement of planning laws to promote orderly urban development and reduce the risk of building failures. The exercise was carried out by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) as part of its ongoing compliance drive.

The affected properties include undeveloped plots, buildings under construction, and structures with unauthorised extensions that were found to be in breach of the Lagos State Physical Planning Law. Officials said the enforcement action followed routine inspections aimed at identifying developments that failed to obtain the required planning approvals before construction.

Speaking during the exercise, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, Olayinka Wasiu, said compliance with planning regulations is essential to preventing building collapse, protecting lives and property, and ensuring sustainable physical development across the state. He noted that property owners and developers must obtain the necessary permits before commencing any construction activities.

LASPPPA also reiterated that enforcement measures are intended to encourage voluntary compliance rather than punish developers. The agency urged owners of affected properties to regularise their documentation and comply with planning requirements before resuming construction or occupancy.

Urban planning professionals have welcomed the renewed enforcement, arguing that strict compliance with planning laws is necessary to improve public safety, preserve infrastructure, and support sustainable urban growth. They also called for faster permit approval processes and greater public awareness to encourage compliance and reduce illegal developments.

The post Lagos Seals Ikeja Properties Over Planning Permit Violations appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Urban planning experts have warned that increasing violations of planning permit regulations are undermining orderly physical development across Nigeria, contributing to building collapses, flooding, environmental degradation, and significant economic losses. They say the growing trend of commencing construction without obtaining statutory approvals is weakening the country’s urban planning framework and exposing communities to avoidable risks.

According to industry stakeholders, many developers and property owners continue to adopt a “build first, regularise later” approach, largely due to lengthy approval processes, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and the high cost of obtaining planning permits. Experts argue that while these challenges exist, bypassing planning regulations compromises public safety and sustainable urban growth.

Professionals in the built environment noted that planning approvals are essential because they ensure developments comply with approved land use, structural standards, environmental requirements, and safety regulations before construction begins. They stressed that proper supervision by planning authorities throughout the construction process significantly reduces the risk of structural failures and other hazards.

Recent enforcement actions by several state governments, particularly in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory, have targeted illegal developments through building seals, demolitions, permit regularisation programmes, and digital approval systems. Authorities believe these measures will improve compliance while promoting safer and more organised urban development.

Experts have also recommended the adoption of fully digital planning permit systems, transparent approval charges, public awareness campaigns, and stronger enforcement to encourage voluntary compliance. They believe technology-driven approval processes can reduce delays, minimise corruption, and make regulatory compliance more accessible for developers and homeowners.

Stakeholders maintain that strengthening planning permit compliance is critical to protecting lives and property, improving infrastructure delivery, and supporting sustainable housing and real estate development across Nigeria’s rapidly growing cities.

The post Planning Permit Violations Fuel Unsafe Urban Development, Experts Warn appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Lagos State’s growing housing crisis is being driven not only by inflation and rising construction costs but also by a complex web of permits, levies and regulatory charges that developers say are making housing increasingly expensive and inaccessible.

As Nigeria’s commercial capital continues to attract thousands of new residents annually, demand for accommodation has far outpaced supply. Estimates place Lagos’ housing deficit at about 3.4 million units, while rising inflation has significantly increased the cost of cement, iron rods, labour and other building materials.

However, industry stakeholders argue that beyond market forces, regulatory costs have become a major contributor to the affordability challenge.

Data from Lagos State’s budget performance reveals that agencies responsible for planning approvals and building regulation generate revenues that rival or exceed government spending on housing. In 2024, planning and building-related agencies were assigned revenue targets of about N151 billion, compared to the N55.92 billion budgeted for housing development.

Reports further indicate that Lagos generated approximately N80 billion from building approval fees between January and May 2025 alone, highlighting the scale of revenue derived from the approval process.

Developers say securing approval for construction projects involves navigating multiple agencies, paying various fees and complying with numerous regulatory requirements before a single block is laid.

Lagos-based developer, Olaoluwa Awolaja, described the process as lengthy and costly, noting that obtaining planning approval is only the beginning.

“Once you submit your drawings, that is where the real journey starts. You must secure approvals, structural certifications, inspections and stage certifications before construction can progress smoothly,” he said.

According to him, developers are often required to obtain environmental clearances, fire service approvals, survey verifications and title documentation, depending on the size and nature of the project.

Another developer, Bukola Ojo, recounted how a simple renovation project became delayed for months after officials demanded additional documentation and levy payments during construction.

She said the interruption increased project costs and created uncertainty, forcing contractors to leave the site while awaiting further approvals.

Industry stakeholders estimate that regulatory compliance alone can account for between 15 and 25 per cent of total project costs before construction expenses are considered.

The burden is ultimately transferred to buyers and tenants.

Across Lagos, residents continue to grapple with rising rents as landlords and developers adjust prices to reflect increasing development costs.

A tenant in Idimu, Blessing Adebayo, said her one-bedroom apartment rent increased from N450,000 to N1.5 million within two years, reflecting the growing pressure on housing affordability.

Experts say approval delays further worsen the situation by extending project timelines and increasing financing costs.

Sources familiar with the approval process disclosed that administrative restructuring and digitisation efforts have created a backlog, with some applications reportedly awaiting final approval for up to three months.

Real estate professionals argue that the combination of multiple levies, duplicated regulatory functions and prolonged approval timelines is discouraging investment in housing delivery.

The General Secretary of the Association of Real Estate Developers of Lagos State (AREDOLS), Ahmad Sanni, noted that developers face numerous charges, including planning fees, stage certification fees, emergency management levies, waste management charges and other statutory payments.

Similarly, President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Akintoye Adeoye, criticised what he described as excessive approval requirements and high regulatory costs.

Legal experts have also raised concerns over overlapping charges imposed by different agencies, warning that some fees appear to cover similar regulatory functions under different names.

Stakeholders are now calling for comprehensive reforms, including a one-stop approval platform, consolidation of overlapping levies, transparent fee structures and full digitisation of permit processing.

They argue that simplifying the approval system would reduce delays, lower development costs and encourage greater investment in affordable housing.

With Lagos continuing to experience rapid urbanisation, experts warn that addressing regulatory bottlenecks may be essential to improving housing supply, stabilising rents and making home ownership more attainable for millions of residents.

The post Multiple Levies, Approval Delays Worsen Lagos Housing Crisis, Developers Lament appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Lagos State Government has demolished 17 illegal structures and sealed 52 others across different parts of the state as part of ongoing efforts to enforce physical planning laws and restore order within the built environment.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, disclosed this on Friday during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing held in Alausa, Ikeja, where he presented the ministry’s performance scorecard for the third year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.

According to him, the enforcement actions followed investigations into multiple public complaints and disputes relating to property development across the state.

Olumide said the ministry’s Technical Services Department received 987 petitions within the review period. Out of these, 399 cases were resolved through mediation and compliance processes, while 519 remain under investigation.

“As part of our enforcement activities, 17 structures were removed and 52 others sealed for various planning infractions,” he said.

The commissioner noted that the interventions have helped reduce litigation, minimise conflicts arising from enforcement actions, and improve public confidence in physical development control processes.

He also highlighted progress in urban planning, stating that three major planning frameworks were completed during the review period. These include the Lagos Island Model City Plan, Ibeju-Lekki Model City Plan, and the Revised Badagry Master Plan.

Olumide said the plans will guide infrastructure development, land use management, and sustainable urban growth across Lagos State.

He added that monitoring and compliance operations were intensified across housing estates and developing communities, with 205 estates inspected to ensure adherence to approved layout plans and development regulations.

To curb fraudulent property activities, the ministry also published details of 176 illegal estates operating without approved layouts, advising prospective buyers to verify approvals before making transactions.

Olumide further revealed that the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority processed 21,603 planning permit applications between June 2025 and March 2026, approving 17,279 within the period.

He said a 60-day amnesty programme introduced between October and December 2025 improved compliance significantly, attracting 7,198 applications and resulting in 4,113 approvals.

The commissioner also described the Electronic Physical Planning Permit Processing System (e-PPPS) as a major reform milestone.

According to him, the platform enables residents to process planning permits online from any location, improving transparency, efficiency, and ease of doing business in the state.

The post Lagos Demolishes 17 Illegal Structures, Seals 52 Others In Enforcement Drive appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Lagos State Government on Friday published the names of 176 illegal estates operating without approved layout plans, in a renewed effort to curb fraudulent property developments and restore order in the built environment.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, disclosed this during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing marking the third year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.

According to him, the ministry has intensified monitoring and enforcement operations across the state, inspecting 205 estates for compliance with approved layout regulations.

He said the exercise was designed to promote sustainable urban development, improve infrastructure coordination, and ensure orderly estate planning across Lagos.

“Through continuous monitoring and enforcement activities, the department contributed significantly towards reducing incidences of unregulated estate development and promoting safer, more organised, and environmentally sustainable communities across Lagos State,” Olumide said.

The commissioner also highlighted progress in planning permit administration through the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).

He revealed that between June and December 2025, the state received 14,549 planning permit applications and granted 11,701 approvals. Between January and March 2026, a further 7,054 applications were received, with 5,578 approvals granted.

Olumide noted that the 60-day planning permit amnesty programme significantly improved compliance among developers and property owners.

On reforms in the sector, he said the state government introduced the Electronic Physical Planning Permit Processing System (e-PPPS) to digitise and streamline applications.

“The platform enables applicants to process planning permit applications online from any location, thereby improving transparency, accessibility, efficiency, accountability, and ease of doing business,” he said.

The ministry also listed key urban planning achievements, including the Lagos Island Model City Plan, Ibeju-Lekki Model City Plan, and the revised Badagry Master Plan.

Olumide said the government remains committed to building a resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive city through stronger regulatory enforcement and improved urban planning systems.

He added that increased compliance has been driven by reform initiatives and expanded sensitisation efforts targeting developers and residents.

Responding to concerns over permit costs, the commissioner defended the charges, arguing that ongoing infrastructure projects across the state have significantly improved property values and living conditions.

“Regarding the high cost of permits, I disagree. Mention any area in Lagos that is not witnessing one infrastructure project or another,” he said.

He maintained that government investments in roads and infrastructure continue to enhance real estate value across Lagos State.

The post Lagos Publishes 176 Illegal Estates, Moves To Tighten Urban Planning Enforcement appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Lagos State Government has assured that property owners whose buildings are demolished during road construction will be adequately compensated but only if they obtained valid planning permits.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, gave the assurance during a public sensitisation programme organised by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) to educate stakeholders on the importance of obtaining planning permits.

Olumide explained that many buildings currently sited on the right of way would have to give way for upcoming road projects, stressing that such losses could be avoided through proper compliance.

“If any building sited on the right of way had obtained a planning permit, the owners would be adequately compensated,” he said.

No Arbitrary Demolitions

The commissioner also urged residents, Community Development Associations (CDAs), and Community Development Committees (CDCs) in Ojo, Badagry, Iba/Oto-Awori, Amuwo, Oriade, and Olorunda districts to regularise their property documentation. He reassured that there would be no arbitrary demolitions at the Trade Fair Complex and emphasised government’s commitment to orderly and sustainable urban development.

LASPPPA Encourages Public Engagement

The General Manager of LASPPPA, Kehinde Osinailke, reaffirmed the agency’s openness to the public and encouraged developers and professionals to seek guidance directly from LASPPPA.

“Our office doors are open to everyone. We are here to enlighten, support, and work with you to ensure compliance and promote a well-organised Lagos,” he said.

A Director in LASPPPA, Claudius Akinyemi, highlighted that planning permits can now be processed online for faster approvals. She noted that a valid permit not only legalises development but can serve as collateral for bank loans, and guarantees compensation if government projects affect the property.

Stakeholders React

During the interactive session, the President-General of Alaba International Amalgamated Council, High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi, pledged that traders and developers at the Alaba Trade Fair would now comply with planning regulations. Another stakeholder, High Chief Taofeek Oseni, called for a review of long-standing buildings constructed on government-acquired land without proper documentation.

Background

In September, the Lagos State Government began demolishing illegal and defective structures at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo. The operation targeted buildings erected without approval, on drainage channels, or within road setbacks. Agencies involved included LASBCA, LASURA, LASPPPA, and the Ministry of Physical Planning, among others.

The state has maintained that demolitions carried out without official authorisation or due process do not represent its position, referencing recent unapproved demolitions in FESTAC Town.

The post Lagos Promises Compensation for Property Owners with Valid Planning Permits appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Lagos State Government has denied claims that a property in Ikeja was demolished without legal approval. The response follows an allegation made by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate. Obi claimed that a building owned by his younger brother was pulled down without any proper legal backing.

Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, addressed the issue in a media chat. He stated that no demolition takes place in Lagos without following the law. “We follow the law in Lagos State. No building can be removed without due process,” he said. Omotoso added that he would speak with relevant agencies to confirm the details.

Peter Obi shared his account on social media. He said his brother’s company had owned the property for over 15 years. According to Obi, unknown individuals demolished the structure without presenting any court order. He described the situation as “coordinated lawlessness” and criticized what he called the breakdown of order in Nigeria.

Officials from two key agencies—Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABSCA) and the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA)—denied involvement. LABSCA’s spokesperson said the demolition did not come from their office. LASPPPA’s representative added that she was not aware of the incident and asked for any official documents that could identify the agency responsible.

Several government agencies in Lagos are authorized to enforce demolitions based on the type of violation. In this case, the responsible agency remains unclear. As of the time of reporting, no authority had taken responsibility, and the Commissioner was yet to follow up on his statement.

The post Lagos Government Responds to Peter Obi’s Demolition Allegation appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The decision, announced on Monday by Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, stems from a growing need to synchronize the high-impact infrastructure project with existing and emerging urban plans.

Olumide, through a statement issued by ministry spokesperson Mukaila Sanusi, emphasized that this halt is essential to avoid clashes between the highway construction and key planning frameworks like the Lekki Comprehensive Master Plan, the Ibeju-Lekki Model City Plan, and the Ode-Omi Action Area Plan. With these blueprints in various stages of implementation, the government believes a strategic pause will help protect the city’s long-term vision.

The Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) has been tasked with enforcing the suspension until further notice. While this move may affect developers eyeing the lucrative Lekki corridor, Olumide assured that it’s a temporary measure aimed at maintaining order amid large-scale transformation. He also reiterated that the state remains committed to a sustainable and well-structured urban environment, and that the coastal highway, once complete, will ultimately be a boon for Lagos.

The 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a flagship initiative under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, stretches from Lagos to Cross River, cutting through several coastal states. Construction began in March 2024, with the first phase executed by Hitech Construction—extending nearly 47.5 kilometers from Ahmadu Bello Way to Eleko Village. A significant portion of this phase lies within Lagos, including a 55-kilometer stretch leading to the Lekki Deep Seaport and the Dangote Industrial Corridor. Although sections are already taking shape, the full six-lane highway remains under active construction.

The post Lagos Hits Pause on Building Permits Along Coastal Highway Route appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

This decisive action is part of the state’s ongoing campaign to curb unregulated development and uphold urban planning standards.

The crackdown was spearheaded by Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, and targeted properties that had ignored an extended amnesty program designed to assist property owners in regularizing their building permits. According to a statement shared on the government’s official Facebook page on Saturday, this enforcement underscores the state’s firm stance against illegal construction and its commitment to maintaining a safe and orderly cityscape.

The amnesty program, which initially ran from May 2 to July 30, 2024, provided a rare opportunity for property owners and developers to obtain building approvals without incurring penalties. The program was further extended twice, first to October and later to December 31, 2024, to allow more participants to comply. Despite these leniencies, many property owners chose to flout the rules, pressing ahead with unauthorized constructions that violated structural, environmental, and safety standards.

Commissioner Olumide expressed disappointment at the lack of compliance, stating, “The amnesty program was a golden opportunity for property owners to regularize their building permits without facing immediate consequences. Unfortunately, many disregarded this initiative, choosing instead to erect illegal structures that fail to meet safety and urban planning standards. The government’s objective is not to punish but to ensure compliance, protecting the lives and properties of all Lagos residents.”

The enforcement team sealed several properties in prominent areas, including buildings on Okesuna Street, Okepopo Street, Sunmonu Street, Olushi Street, and Isale Gangan Street. A construction project at No. 8 Isale Gangan Street was particularly flagged for its inadequate setbacks and air spaces, raising serious safety concerns. Other affected areas included Oroyinyin, Faji, and Omididun streets, where ongoing developments failed to meet the city’s planning and structural regulations.

Dr. Olumide stressed that unregulated developments not only jeopardize public safety but also disrupt the city’s master plan, leading to structural collapses, environmental degradation, and poor urban aesthetics. He urged developers and landowners to prioritize compliance, emphasizing the long-term benefits of proper urban planning. “Adherence to these regulations is not optional—it is critical for creating a livable, sustainable Lagos,” he added.

In a bid to encourage sustainable development, the commissioner also advocated for land-pooling strategies, particularly for owners of small adjoining plots. This approach, he explained, could foster better land utilization, allowing for more organized and sustainable urban environments.

The enforcement operation was conducted with the involvement of key officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Olumide Sotire, directors from the Ministry of Physical Planning, and representatives from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).

The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to extending this enforcement drive to other parts of the state, leaving no room for illegal developments. This proactive stance reflects a broader vision to safeguard lives, protect the environment, and maintain the aesthetic integrity of Lagos as a thriving metropolis.

As the government intensifies its efforts, property developers and residents are being reminded of their responsibility to obtain proper approvals before embarking on construction projects. The recent operation serves as a clear signal that non-compliance will not be tolerated, as Lagos pushes forward with its mission to ensure a safe, orderly, and sustainable urban landscape.

The post Lagos Cracks Down on Illegal Construction: Multiple Sites Sealed on Lagos Island appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

At a time in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre, when spate of building demolition in the state is on the increase, knowing how to get one’s building plan approval is the beginning of wisdom.

Today, many buildings have fallen to the state’s rampaging bulldozer for reasons bordering on lack of approved building plan, and contravention or distortion of approved layout by private home owners and commercial estate developers.

Read also: Lagos to begin demolition of drainage-blocking structures in Ikoyi

Officials of the state government have described this as disregard for physical planning regulations, hence their advice that builders should adhere to building regulations and planning licenses.

“Property owners and developers should prioritize obtaining planning licenses before commencing construction,” Oluyinka Olumide, the state’s Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, advised recently.

The commissioner stressed the importance of adhering to the terms of these licenses as part of collective efforts to create a more sustainable and compliant built environment, assuring that the state government was committed to enforcing regulations without exceptions with the aim of ensuring that the law benefits the overall living conditions in the state.

Read also: Nigeria: Leading Cement Producer Launches Electric Truck at Lagos Plant

To be free from the embarrassment and loss of investment which many have suffered in the last few months over the demolition of their property, the state has put in place documents and requirements for those applying for building approval.

Among others, the applicant is expected to provide five original copies of architectural drawings, bearing the endorsement of the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON).

Five original copies of structural drawings with accompanying signatures, seals, and supervision letters from a registered engineer under the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

A calculation sheet, detailing the materials to be used, signed by a COREN registered engineer along with evidence of payment of required assessment fees, plus five original copies of mechanical and electrical drawings, where applicable.

A certified true copy of title documents, such as certificates of occupancy (CofO), registered conveyances, governor’s consent, or letters of allocation. This comes with a confirmation or clearance letter from the Lands Bureau, if title documents are in process with the Lands Bureau.

Clearance from the Land Use Allocation Committee (LUAC) where applicable; fire safety clearance from the Lagos State Fire Service (if applicable), Metroline corridor clearance from the state’s Ministry of Transport (if applicable), and Traffic impact assessment report from the state’s Ministry of Transport (if applicable).

Other requirements are Drainage clearance from the Office of Drainage Services, Lagos State Ministry of Environment (if applicable), Confirmation letter from New Towns Development Authority (if applicable).

Soil test report (if applicable), and Environmental impact assessment (EIA) report from the Office of Environmental Services, Lagos State Ministry of Environment (if applicable).

The applicant is also expected to provide letter of structural stability/integrity, signed by a COREN registered engineer. This applies to renovations of existing buildings.

Read also: 27 requirements to obtain building permit in Lagos

He is also required to provide Physical Planning Technical Report from the Physical Development Intervention Department of LASPPPA (if applicable); Clearance from the Nigerian Air and Civil Aviation (if applicable); Clearance from LASURA (if applicable) and an original sun-print survey plan.

There should also be Receipt of tenement rate or land use charge, or a sworn affidavit for payment if receipts are not available; Two passport photographs; Proof of Pay As You Earn (P.A.Y.E) returns for companies; A copy of the certificate of incorporation for companies and a Development levy receipt.

Expectedly, the state requires a copy of the current tax clearance certificate or evidence of updated personal income tax payment for the applicant(s), or the tax clearance certificate of two directors if the applicant is a company.

SOURCE: BUSSINESSDAY

The post How to Get Building Plan Approval in Lagos and Avoid Demolition appeared first on Housing TV Africa.