LAGOS, August 4, 2025 — The Lagos State Government has declared 176 residential estates across the state illegal due to non-compliance with physical planning and land-use regulations, giving developers and stakeholders a 21-day deadline to initiate proper regularisation procedures or face enforcement actions.
Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, disclosed this during a press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja. He revealed that the affected estates were identified through a comprehensive audit of development activities in emerging communities, particularly in Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Ikorodu, Badagry, and Eti-Osa, where unapproved layouts have become increasingly rampant.
According to the commissioner, these estates were developed without obtaining the necessary layout approvals, planning permits, or infrastructure assessments, thereby violating the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law of 2019. He warned that failure to comply within the 21-day window would attract demolition or sealing of the non-compliant properties.
The government’s ultimatum is part of a broader crackdown aimed at restoring order in the built environment and curbing unregulated expansion that strains public utilities, threatens environmental safety, and undermines sustainable urban growth.
Dr. Olumide stressed the importance of adhering to state planning protocols, noting that many of the illegal estates operate without drainage systems, roads, green spaces, or considerations for public infrastructure, thereby endangering residents and exposing them to flood and other environmental risks.
He urged affected developers to approach the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) and the Lagos State New Towns Development Authority (NTDA) to regularise their layouts and obtain the necessary approvals to align with the state’s development masterplan.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting orderly development, ensuring safety, and preventing speculative land sales that exploit unsuspecting members of the public. Residents were also advised to verify the approval status of estates before making real estate investments.
