Sanwo-Olu allocates land to 98 Eti-Osa communities, promises inclusive development

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday presented land allocation letters to 98 indigenous communities within the Ito Omu project area in Eti-Osa Local Government Area, assuring residents that development would not come at the expense of long-established settlements.

The allocation covers Ito Omu and neighbouring communities along the rapidly developing Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki and Epe corridor. Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Sanwo-Olu said the exercise was aimed at recognising communities with deep historical ties to the area and ensuring they have a place in Lagos’ future.

He noted that for generations, the communities have supported the state’s growth through fishing, farming, trading and other traditional livelihoods, adding that the allocation was the result of years of engagement that began in 2020.

According to Sanwo-Olu, the allocation letters are more than official documents as they represent the government’s commitment to protecting the interests of indigenous communities and ensuring they are not left behind amid ongoing development across the Lekki and Ibeju-Lekki axis.

“The future of Lagos cannot be built on unplanned expansion. It must be built on deliberate planning, appropriate infrastructure, secure communities and opportunities for our people to prosper,” he said.

He explained that the development plan would guide how land is used for residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and recreational purposes while making it easier to provide infrastructure, attract investment and improve living standards. He also pledged continued investment in roads, bridges, drainage systems, social infrastructure and water transportation, including plans to build the Ito Omu Water Jetty.

Sanwo-Olu, however, urged residents to protect the value of the allocation by resisting the temptation to turn it into a land-selling venture. He said the government’s long-term goal is to develop Ito Omu into a thriving urban centre that could one day rival or even surpass Lekki.

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Lands Bureau, Kamar Olowoshago, said the presentation fulfilled the state’s promise to ensure host communities benefit directly from development in the corridor. Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Sesan Olowa, described the exercise as a landmark achievement that would help secure the future of indigenous communities in the fast-growing area.