Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration disclosed that 90% of properties in Lagos currently operate without proper building approval.
The announcement was made during the deployment of innovative ICT tools to streamline physical planning activities in the state, marking a significant leap towards efficiency and transparency.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by Dr. Olajide Babatunde, the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, emphasized the administration’s commitment to enhancing the ease of doing business in Lagos.
He outlined measures aimed at simplifying the process of obtaining building permits, including online accessibility to the Lagos State Planning Information Centre (LASPIC) for certified true copies of approvals.
Highlighting the magnitude of the issue, Sanwo-Olu noted that out of the estimated five million properties in Lagos, less than 10% are documented in the land registry, rendering them ineligible for building approval applications.
To address this disparity, the administration plans to offer amnesty to property owners without approvals, coupled with comprehensive documentation efforts.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, underscored the importance of the newly introduced automation system in facilitating seamless interactions between residents and the ministry. He emphasized the need to uphold integrity and transparency to ensure the success of the initiative.
TPL Musa Okuniyi, Director of the Physical Planning and Automation Department, expressed optimism about the future of Lagos as a Smart City, where technology and planning converge to enhance livability and sustainability. He urged residents to embrace the transformative advancements aimed at improving the overall quality of life in the state.
