Lagos Sets Target of 40,000 Building Approvals Annually – Commissioner

The Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development says it is stepping up public engagement to boost compliance with planning permit regulations as it targets 40,000 building approvals yearly.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, disclosed this on Wednesday at a press conference in Alausa, ahead of the ministry’s stakeholders’ engagement themed “Planning Permit: A Rebirth”, scheduled for September 26.

Oluyinka revealed that the ministry processed about 18,000 planning permit applications in 2024 but must double that figure to meet Lagos’ development needs.

“Our assessment shows that Lagos should be issuing between 40,000 and 45,000 planning permits annually. We are far below this mark, which is why we have chosen to go back to the grassroots to sensitise the public and key stakeholders,” he said.

The commissioner likened planning permits to a building’s birth certificate, noting that they confer legal recognition on developments and provide government with reliable data for fiscal and infrastructural planning.

“Just as every child receives a birth certificate, every building in Lagos must have a planning permit. Without it, the structure is not recognised by law, and compensation cannot be paid if government needs the land for infrastructure projects,” he explained.

Oluyinka outlined the simplified process for securing approvals, noting that Lagos has 57 district offices where residents can apply directly without intermediaries. Proof of land ownership and up-to-date tax clearance are mandatory, he said.

“Once your drawings and documents are complete, you receive a registration number immediately, and all things being equal, you get your approval within 10 working days,” he assured.

He warned residents against erecting buildings without permits, stressing that such structures risk penalties and demolition.

“You cannot drive a car without a licence. In the same way, no building should be erected in Lagos without a planning permit. We will know and we will act,” he cautioned.

The commissioner said the ongoing stakeholders’ week would feature debates and interactive sessions with school children, professional town planners, architects, engineers, surveyors, estate developers, and market leaders to foster voluntary compliance.

He also disclosed collaboration with federal tax authorities to streamline requirements, as most applicants were not tax-compliant.

“Under the new reforms, you must show evidence of tax payment before your application is processed,” Oluyinka stated.

He urged residents to see the process as an investment in safety and legality, adding that permits enhance the value and bankability of properties.

“If you present a property document without a planning permit to a bank or embassy, it is invalid. The permit protects you, your family and your investment,” he said.

Oluyinka reaffirmed government’s commitment to efficient service delivery and promised continued engagement with stakeholders to remove bottlenecks and shorten approval timelines.

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