By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Lagos State Government has reduced the minimum land size required for estate development from 10,000 square metres to 5,000 square metres, in a bid to respond to rising population pressures and growing housing demand in the state.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, announced the policy shift during the maiden Quarterly Media Parley at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa.
Olumide explained that the decision was taken “in sync with current realities in Lagos,” where urbanisation has heightened the need for estate developments across different parts of the state.
“Some of the promoters of the 176 non-complying estates published in August had come forward to seek assistance on how to regularise the status of their estates.
Enforcement will soon commence on those in the list that have not come forward for regularisation,” the commissioner said.
He further disclosed that the government would extend regulatory exercises to areas such as Ikorodu and Ikeja, while spelling out requirements for communities that had been unilaterally converted into estates without approval.
Highlighting the state’s broader urban development efforts, Olumide emphasised the role of Lagos’ Operative Development Plans, which he said were aligned with major infrastructure projects like the Blue and Red Rail Lines, flyovers, and highways.
According to him, model city plans have already been completed for Alimosho, Kosofe, Lagos Island, and Badagry, with a call on government agencies and stakeholders to strictly adhere to the guidelines.
On planning permits, the commissioner praised the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Agency for surpassing expectations in its mandate.
He noted that approvals can now be secured within 10 days of payment, thanks to more district offices, motivated staff, and increased awareness. Plans are also underway to fully automate the process.
Olumide added that the state government was actively working to reclaim and redesign underutilised informal spaces, especially along power-line and gas-line corridors and drainage setbacks.
Over 3,000 hectares of land have already been earmarked for structured projects such as parking zones to ease congestion in high-density areas.
“This administration remains committed to transforming Lagos into a more sustainable and organised megacity where growth is properly planned, monitored, and beneficial to all residents,” he said.
