Trade Fair Developers Given Two Weeks To Regularize Buildings

The Lagos State Government has issued a two-week deadline for property developers and occupants at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo to obtain proper building approvals and align their operations with existing physical planning regulations. The move follows recent demolition exercises targeting illegal structures across the state, including areas around the trade fair complex.

The Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development is tasked with overseeing the regularization process. Developers and property owners are required to approach the ministry within the stipulated timeframe to confirm the approval status of their buildings, ensuring compliance with the law. Failure to meet the deadline will result in the resumption of demolition activities under the supervision of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).

Focus on Safety and Compliance

The government clarified that land ownership and title are not in question, emphasizing that the enforcement targets unapproved developments only. The demolition and compliance measures aim to address safety concerns, prevent haphazard construction, and promote an orderly urban environment. Over time, the Trade Fair Complex has accumulated numerous unapproved structures, posing significant risks to public safety and emergency response.

The enforcement aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11, which advocates for inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities, and complements Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda.

The regulatory framework for these actions is anchored in the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act (1992) and the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law (2019), which empower the state to regulate physical development within its jurisdiction, including federal lands not designated for exclusive federal use.

Authorities have urged residents and stakeholders to cooperate with the ongoing enforcement initiatives to foster a safe, well-planned, and sustainable Lagos. The state’s approach seeks to ensure that all developments are compliant with the law, mitigating the risk of future hazards and creating a more orderly urban landscape.

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Next Steps for Developers

Following the two-week window, LASBCA will resume enforcement, targeting structures that remain non-compliant. The ministry will provide guidance and support to developers to facilitate the approval process, promoting adherence to planning standards.

The recent demolition exercises have drawn criticism from some residents, who perceived the operations as targeting specific groups. However, government officials maintain that the measures are impartial, focusing solely on building approvals and urban safety. Developers and occupants at the Trade Fair Complex are now under pressure to comply or face renewed demolition activities.

The Lagos State Government continues to emphasize that regularizing physical developments is essential to achieving a sustainable and orderly city. By ensuring that all buildings meet statutory requirements, the state seeks to safeguard residents, enhance emergency responsiveness, and uphold urban planning standards across Lagos.