The Lagos State Government has cut the minimum land size required for estate development from 10,000 square metres to 5,000 square metres, in a move aimed at easing housing delivery in Africa’s most populous city.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, announced the policy shift during the ministry’s maiden Quarterly Media Parley held in Alausa, Ikeja.
Olumide explained that the adjustment reflects the realities of Lagos, where rapid urbanisation and population growth continue to drive demand for housing. He noted that the reduction would enable more developers to participate in the housing sector and help address the rising accommodation needs.
The commissioner also warned that enforcement would soon begin against the 176 non-complying estates earlier listed by the government in August. According to him, while some promoters had approached the ministry to regularise their estates, others risk sanctions for failing to comply.
Plans are underway to extend regulatory oversight to areas such as Ikorodu and Ikeja, with particular attention on communities that have been unilaterally converted into estates without approvals.
Olumide underscored the importance of aligning urban projects with the state’s Operative Development Plans, highlighting the integration of projects such as the Blue and Red Rail Lines, flyovers, and major highways. He added that Lagos had completed key urban blueprints, including the Alimosho, Kosofe, Lagos Island, and Badagry Model City Plans.
On planning permits, the commissioner assured that the approval process is now faster and more efficient. “Applicants can obtain their approvals within 10 days of payment,” he said, attributing the improvement to expanded district offices, motivated staff, and ongoing awareness campaigns. He added that the process would soon be fully automated.
Olumide also revealed that the state is moving to reclaim and redevelop informal spaces, particularly along power-line and gas-line corridors as well as drainage setbacks. Over 3,000 hectares have been identified for structured projects such as parking zones, aimed at reducing congestion in high-density areas.
He stressed that the state’s transformation agenda includes developing clear requirements for specialised projects like seaports, airports, and highways, while reinforcing Lagos’ position as a model for urban planning in Nigeria.
