The Lagos State Government has denied recent online reports claiming it revoked all existing building permits. Instead, the government clarified it has introduced a three-month amnesty period from May 2 to July 30, 2024, allowing property owners to obtain or regularize their planning permits without incurring statutory penalties.
Oloye Olusegun, Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Building Control Agency, stated, “It should be noted that the issuance of a Planning Permit is the prerogative of the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, LASPPPA.” He emphasized that the directive to revalidate Letters of Authorisation for construction was to ensure developers engage all necessary professionals in their projects.
The revalidation process aims to audit and authenticate the professionals involved in building construction across the state. Additionally, buildings that have been abandoned for extended periods must be re-certified for structural stability before construction can resume.
Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, mandated that no one should sleep in buildings under construction, and all construction activities should cease by 7 pm daily, with no work permitted on Sundays. He urged developers to revalidate their letters of authorization to commence building.
The government has extended the amnesty period for property owners without planning approvals by three months, from August 1 to October 31, 2024. Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, highlighted the extension’s goal to accommodate the high number of applications and provide more opportunities for compliance.