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Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, recently revealed that a staggering 80% of Lekki houses in Ibeju lack proper approval.
In an interview with journalists, Olumide highlighted the challenges faced in obtaining necessary permits for construction in the area.
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He explained that the process for obtaining approval starts with acquiring planning information to understand the zoning regulations for specific areas.
However, many individuals purchase agricultural land without knowledge of its designated use. Consequently, when applying for permits, they discover that the land is not zoned for their intended purpose.
Olumide emphasized the importance of obtaining a fence permit, which helps applicants understand the zoning regulations. Despite these procedures, many developers proceed with construction and even advertise properties without securing proper approvals.
Jide Odusolu, CEO of Octo5 Holdings, added insights into the situation, stating that the masterplan for the Lekki Peninsula, initially established during Bola Tinubu’s governorship and updated under Babatunde Fashola, has been compromised due to rapid development post-2010. He noted that newer estates have skirted old regulations, leading to a distortion of the original plan.
Odusolu highlighted the efforts made by developers to provide infrastructure without government support, despite paying significant taxes. He criticized the government’s approach to planning and titling, which he believes discourages compliance and contributes to chaotic development.
Femi Oyedele, Managing Director of Fame at Oyster & Co. Nigeria, echoed concerns about the lack of coordination among estate layout plans, leading to an unplanned cityscape. He proposed demolishing approved estates along arterial roads to facilitate planned road construction, drawing a parallel with the restoration of Abuja by Nasir El’Rufai.
Oyedele emphasized the need for comprehensive urban planning to accommodate the growing population in the Lekki Peninsula and Victoria Island areas, suggesting that the current infrastructure falls short of meeting the area’s needs.
