The Lagos State Government has announced a significant collaboration with building professionals to overhaul its urban development processes. This move aims to address critical safety concerns and foster sustainable growth in Nigeria's most populous city.
Government Vows Strict Adherence to Planning Standards
During a meeting with executives from the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, reaffirmed the state's commitment. He stated that the government is ready to partner deeply with the institute to strengthen all physical planning procedures.
Dr. Olumide emphasized that the state's strategy is fundamentally proactive. He insisted that effective control over development must start right from the beginning. This means strict compliance with approved layouts, certified building plans, and established professional standards at the earliest phases of any construction project.
The Commissioner drew a direct line between poor development outcomes and several root causes. He identified compromised planning standards, substandard architectural designs, excessive interference from clients, political pressure, and simple human error as major culprits. He firmly stated that following planning regulations is the most effective shield against structural failures and disasters.
Risks of Unapproved Developments Highlighted
Dr. Olumide expressed serious concern over constructions that proceed without the necessary physical planning approvals and lack supervision by qualified professionals. He warned that such sites pose a grave threat to human lives, personal property, and the overall health of the built environment in Lagos.
Taking a firm stance, the Commissioner declared that any construction site operating without the involvement of registered and competent building professionals should be halted. He assured that the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development will continue to insist on the highest levels of professionalism and discipline in planning across all areas of the state.
Calls for Public Awareness and Deeper Collaboration
Echoing the Commissioner's sentiments, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, Mr. Oluwole Sotire, stressed the importance of continuous public education. He highlighted the need for Lagos residents to be constantly aware of existing planning laws and regulations.
Mr. Sotire confirmed that the state government is open to forming deeper collaborative ties with professional bodies like the NIOB. The goal of this partnership is to enhance compliance with the rules and improve enforcement mechanisms. He noted that if developers adhere to physical planning requirements from the outset, it would drastically cut down on avoidable financial losses and the wastage of valuable resources.
Adding to the discussion, the General Manager of the Lagos State Informal Space Management Authority (LASISMA), Mr. Daisi Oso, also addressed the gathering. He underscored the necessity for all property developers to fully understand, embrace, and comply with the state's laws throughout their project development cycles.
This renewed partnership, solidified in Lagos on December 29, 2025, marks a pivotal step by the state government to bring more order, safety, and sustainability to its rapid urban expansion. It signals a crackdown on haphazard construction and a push for a professionally regulated building environment.
