LASG gives Trade Fair Complex property owners 2 weeks to obtain necessary approvals
The Lagos State Government has given property developers and owners at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo a two-week ultimatum to regularise their buildings by obtaining the necessary planning approvals.
In a statement on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, directed all developers and occupants to approach the ministry within the stipulated period to “regularise the approval status of their buildings in line with extant regulations.”
Dr. Olumide clarified that the state’s enforcement action is not a challenge to land ownership or titles within the complex. Instead, the focus is solely on ensuring that all physical developments have the required planning permits, as mandated by law.
“The Lagos State Government calls on all residents and stakeholders to cooperate with its ongoing efforts to ensure a safe, well-planned, and sustainable Lagos for all,” the Commissioner stated.
He reiterated the government’s zero tolerance for illegal and unapproved developments, emphasizing that every structure in the state must possess a valid planning permit from the ministry.
To justify the state’s authority over the federal-owned complex, the Commissioner cited the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act (1992) and the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law (2019). He explained that the state is empowered to regulate physical development on all lands within its territory, excluding those used for exclusive federal purposes like military bases.
The government warned that after the two-week grace period, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) will resume the demolition of all non-compliant structures.
This action follows recent demolition exercises carried out by the state government against illegal structures in various parts of Lagos, including areas around the Trade Fair Complex.
