LASG Reaffirms Authority to Enforce Planning Laws at Trade Fair Complex
Lagos, Nigeria — The Lagos State Government has reiterated its authority to regulate and enforce physical planning laws within the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, stressing that the complex falls under its jurisdiction despite being located on Federal Government land.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, explained that the Lagos State Government’s position is backed by the Supreme Court judgment of 2003 and the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law 2019 (as amended).
He emphasised that developers at the complex must obtain proper planning permits and comply with state laws, noting that safety and orderliness are non-negotiable.
“We have acted decisively to halt further development of unapproved and unsafe buildings in the Complex. A livable, organised, orderly, and sustainable built environment is crucial to achieving our T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda,” Dr. Olumide said.
History of Non-Compliance
According to the Commissioner, the Trade Fair Complex has a long record of non-compliance with building regulations, despite repeated efforts to bring developers into voluntary compliance.
He recalled that in November 2023, the State Government requested that all ongoing construction projects within the complex be regularised with the ministry, but developers failed to cooperate.
Recent Enforcement
The latest enforcement exercise, which led to the demolition of several structures at the New Mandilas Plaza within the complex, sparked outcry among traders who claimed they were not given adequate notice.
Dr. Olumide stressed that the demolition was not targeted at the traders but was part of the State’s regular safety drive aimed at promoting livability and reducing risks across all parts of Lagos.
“This is about safety, not sentiments. The law applies to all. Compliance is the only way to guarantee a sustainable environment,” he reiterated.
