Lagos Commissioner Urges Ojo Axis Residents to Secure Planning Permits for All Developments

The Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, has urged residents and key stakeholders within the Ojo axis to procure planning permits for all development projects. This call, made during a public awareness program hosted by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), targets residents, Community Development Associations (CDAs), Community Development Committees (CDCs), and stakeholders in Ojo, Badagry, Iba/Oto-Awori, Amuwo, Oriade, and Olorunda districts. The initiative seeks to emphasize the critical importance and social benefits of obtaining planning permits, both for community safety and regulatory compliance.

Dr. Olumide emphasized that many structures situated on government-designated road rights of way face demolition due to lack of proper permits, a situation that could be prevented if owners obtained valid planning permits. He pointed out that only properties with legitimate planning permits would be compensated if affected by government infrastructure projects. Furthermore, planning permits are only granted for developments within approved layouts, ensuring that no arbitrary demolitions will occur at the Trade Fair, alleviating concerns about regulatory overreach.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s dedication to promoting orderly, sustainable, and resilient urban development across Lagos State and urged residents to comply with planning laws for their own benefit and that of the public. He appealed for collective cooperation in safeguarding orderly city planning.

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TPL Kehinde Osinailke, General Manager of LASPPPA, expressed gratitude to attendees and underscored the authority’s openness to assisting residents, professionals, and developers with permit applications. LASPPPA encourages direct engagement for clarifications or support and assures transparency and efficiency.

TPL Claudius Akinyemi, a Director at LASPPPA, gave detailed insights into the permit application process, highlighting new online application options that make the permitting procedure faster and more convenient. She explained the variety of permits available—including building, renovation, remodelling, and revalidation—and noted that valid permits also serve as legal proof for collateral purposes in banking. She reiterated that unauthorized developments are subject to demolition.

During the forum, stakeholders including High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi and High Chief Taofeek Oseni pledged commitment to compliance, while Barrister Okolie highlighted the issue of delayed permit responses for developments approved federally but pending LASPPPA clearance since 2016. Mr. Olawale Raymond from the Association of Draftsmen called for an amnesty program for owners of existing structures to regularize their developments.

The event was well attended by traditional rulers, local government officials, and CDA and CDC representatives from the six districts, who unanimously commended the government’s proactive enlightenment initiative.