The Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, has urged residents, community development associations, community development committees, and other stakeholders in Ojo, Badagry, Iba/Oto-Awori, Amuwo, Oriade, and Olorunda districts to obtain planning permits for all physical developments in their areas.
Olumide made the appeal during an awareness programme organised by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) to sensitise stakeholders on the importance and social benefits of obtaining planning permits, both for individuals and the government.
The commissioner warned that many structures sited on the government’s right of way would be demolished once road construction begins in those areas, noting that such losses could have been avoided with proper planning permits.
“If any building sited on the right of way had obtained a planning permit, the owners would be adequately compensated,” he said.
The General Manager of LASPPPA, Kehinde Osinailke, reaffirmed the agency’s openness to the public and encouraged residents, developers, and professionals to visit its offices for clarifications or assistance regarding planning permit applications.
“Our office doors are open to everyone. We are here to enlighten, support, and work with you to ensure compliance with planning laws and promote a well-organised Lagos,” Osinailke stated.
A Senior Director in LASPPPA, Claudius Akinyemi, explained the procedures, requirements, and benefits of obtaining a planning permit, noting that applications can now be processed online for greater speed and convenience.
She emphasised that a valid planning permit not only serves as a legal document but can also be used as collateral in financial institutions. Akinyemi added that property owners with valid planning permits are eligible for compensation if their buildings are affected by government road expansion or other development projects.
She further detailed that LASPPPA issues various types of permits, including those for building, renovation, remodelling, and revalidation, as part of the state government’s efforts to promote orderly urban development across Lagos.
