Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development in Lagos State, has raised alarm over the alarming rate of unapproved buildings in the upscale Lekki area, disclosing that over 80% of structures lack official approval.
In a recent interview, Dr. Olumide highlighted the widespread non-compliance with building regulations, underscoring the urgent need for better urban and regional planning in Lagos. He recounted a recent visit to the Ibeju Lekki and Epe areas, where numerous estates were found to be operating without the requisite approvals.
Despite their prominence, a large majority of these estates have not undergone the necessary approval processes, according to Dr. Olumide. He attributed this phenomenon to a lack of awareness about zoning regulations and the improper acquisition of agricultural land for development purposes.
Dr. Olumide outlined the typical approval procedure, emphasizing the importance of zoning awareness and obtaining the necessary permits before commencing development. However, he lamented that many developers proceed with construction and advertising without adhering to these regulatory requirements.
Jide Odusolu, CEO of Octo5 Holdings, provided historical context to the urban planning challenges in Lekki, noting the distortion of the area’s master plan in recent years. He highlighted the burden placed on developers to provide infrastructure without government support, contributing to chaotic development patterns.
Femi Oyedele, Managing Director of Fame at Oyster & Co. Nigeria, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the lack of coordination among estate layout plans and advocating for a comprehensive approach to urban planning. He proposed a model akin to urban restoration efforts in Abuja to address infrastructural challenges and accommodate Lekki’s burgeoning population.
The revelations from Dr. Olumide’s interview underscore the need for concerted efforts to address the urban planning crisis in Lekki, with stakeholders calling for better regulation, enforcement, and infrastructure development to ensure sustainable growth in the area.