In a bold move to shape the future of Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu embarked on a comprehensive five-hour inspection tour of coastal communities, urging property developers to adopt sustainable practices and adhere to planning regulations along the state’s riverine corridor.
The governor, accompanied by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and members of the State Executive Council, embarked on a tour of Ibeshe, Kare, Inagbe, and Ilashe to evaluate the areas’ development potential and identify opportunities for growth. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu expressed concern about the proliferation of structures that defy safety standards and approved planning setbacks, but emphasized his administration’s commitment to restoring order and sanity to these communities. “We are determined to unlock the full potential of these areas, while ensuring that development is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to all stakeholders,” the governor said. He announced that officials of the Ministry of Physical Planning and the Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA, would conduct a comprehensive audit of all identified infractions, with findings guiding the government’s strategic actions to regularize developments, grant titles, and safeguard the rights of locals. “Our goal is to rejuvenate these communities, unlock their tourism potential, and create sustainable opportunities that benefit everyone,” Sanwo-Olu noted.The governor, accompanied by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and members of the State Executive Council, embarked on a tour of Ibeshe, Kare, Inagbe, and Ilashe to evaluate the areas’ development potential and identify opportunities for growth. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu expressed concern about the proliferation of structures that defy safety standards and approved planning setbacks, but emphasized his administration’s commitment to restoring order and sanity to these communities. “We are determined to unlock the full potential of these areas, while ensuring that development is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to all stakeholders,” the governor said. He announced that officials of the Ministry of Physical Planning and the Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA, would conduct a comprehensive audit of all identified infractions, with findings guiding the government’s strategic actions to regularize developments, grant titles, and safeguard the rights of locals. “Our goal is to rejuvenate these communities, unlock their tourism potential, and create sustainable opportunities that benefit everyone,” Sanwo-Olu noted.
During the tour, the governor also inspected a newly built 30-megavolt-ampere electricity station in Ilashe, constructed by the state government, symbolizing a significant leap towards empowering coastal communities. He officially handed over the facility to EKO Disco with a directive to connect the host communities to the national grid, paving the way for a brighter future. “This entire stretch of coastal communities represents a vital future that must be preserved and nurtured. We have met with traditional rulers to share our plans, and we are committed to addressing environmental and infrastructural challenges in these areas,” Sanwo-Olu stated. Issuing a firm yet encouraging warning to developers, the governor emphasized that the government would take corrective action where necessary to ensure sustainable growth.
This is a proactive message to those who have breached planning regulations along the coastline, signaling the government’s commitment to collaborative solutions that balance safety, order, and sustainable development, empowering a brighter future for all.
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