Lagos State Government has urged residents to always obtain building permit for all kinds of development, and doing so would help forestall demolition of such property from right of way in future.
The State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, made the call during a Public Awareness Programme organised by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) for stakeholders in Ojo, Badagry, Iba/Oto-Awori, Amuwo, Oriade, and Olorunda districts.
Speaking through the Director, Public Affairs of the Ministry, Mukaila Sanusi, the Commissioner stressed that securing planning permits remains the most reliable way for property owners to protect their investments and ensure orderly development across the state
Olumide warned that structures sited on government rights of way would be removed once road construction commences in the affected areas, noting that such losses could have been avoided with proper documentation.
“If any building sited on the right of way had obtained a Planning Permit, the owners would be adequately compensated,” Sanusi quoted the Commissioner as saying.
He clarified that planning permits are only granted for properties located within approved layouts, assuring stakeholders that there would be no arbitrary demolitions at the Trade Fair complex.
The Commissioner reiterated government’s commitment to promoting sustainable and resilient physical development, urging residents to embrace compliance for both personal and collective benefit.
Also speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASPPPA, Tpl. Kehinde Osinailke, expressed appreciation to stakeholders for attending the sensitisation despite the short notice.
“Our office doors are open to everyone. We are here to enlighten, support, and work with you to ensure compliance with planning laws and promote a well-organised Lagos,” he said.
Similarly, Tpl. Claudius Akinyemi, a Director in LASPPPA, enlightened participants on the procedures and benefits of obtaining a planning permit. She noted that the process has been simplified through online application, making it faster and more convenient for applicants.
According to her, a valid planning permit not only serves as a legal document but can also be used as collateral in banks. She added that holders of valid permits are eligible for compensation if their properties are affected by government development projects.
Akinyemi further explained the different categories of permits issued by LASPPPA, including building, renovation, remodelling, and revalidation permits, warning against illegal constructions that could lead to demolition.
During the interactive session, community leaders and stakeholders commended the state government for its continuous enlightenment initiatives.
The President-General of Alaba International Amalgamated Council, High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi, pledged strict adherence to planning laws, while High Chief Taofeek Oseni raised concerns about old structures built on government acquisition lands.
Other participants, including Barrister Okolie from the Trade Fair Complex and Mr. Olawale Raymond, Chairman of the Association of Draftsmen in Lagos State, called for timely permit approvals and the introduction of another Amnesty Programme to enable owners of existing structures to regularise their developments.
The well-attended forum brought together Obas, Baales, Local Government Chairmen, CDAs, CDCs, and residents from the six LASPPPA district offices, who lauded the government’s efforts in promoting public awareness on proper physical planning.
