Lagos: Gov Sanwo-Olu extends building permit amnesty to year-end
…launches new physical planning barcode
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has extended the amnesty period for existing buildings without a Planning Permit until December 31, 2024.
The announcement came during the Lagos Physical Planning Summit held at Eko Hotel and Suites, marking the second extension since the initial 90-day amnesty, which ran from May 2 to July 30, 2024, and was later extended to October.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the extended deadline provides more time for property owners to regularize building permits without facing penalties or added costs. Addressing key stakeholders in the building sector, he stressed that this initiative aligns with his administration’s efforts to alleviate economic pressures while promoting compliance with physical planning regulations, which aim to foster a well-organized, sustainable Lagos.
During the summit, the Governor introduced the Physical Planning Permit Barcode. This new tool will be issued to buildings with an approved Planning Permit, allowing regulatory officers to verify permit authenticity instantly, reducing unnecessary disruptions for compliant property owners.
Sanwo-Olu underscored the summit’s role in Lagos’ urban development, describing it as essential to transforming the state into a resilient, sustainable 21st-century megacity. He commended former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, the summit’s keynote speaker, for his contributions to Lagos’ growth and infrastructure legacy.
The Governor extended his gratitude to the Lagos State Office of Physical Planning for organizing the event, calling it a valuable forum for stakeholders from diverse sectors to engage in the city’s developmental goals. He also detailed current and upcoming infrastructure projects aimed at easing traffic, boosting mobility, and enhancing overall living conditions in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu urged policymakers, urban planners, financiers, and community leaders at the summit to contribute forward-thinking solutions to tackle the state’s urban challenges.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Abiodun Olumide, outlined the summit’s objectives, including assessing Lagos’ Operative Development Plans (ODPs), addressing financial obstacles, and exploring sustainable infrastructure development.
“With over 22 million residents, Lagos is Africa’s fastest-growing urban area, facing unique challenges that demand comprehensive planning. This summit provides a platform to discuss these issues and prepare the state for future investments,” Dr. Olumide stated.
