The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to developers of illegal structures along the Lagos shoreline, urging them to regularise their projects within one month or risk revocation and demolition.
The directive was delivered by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, during an inspection of the Lagos Lagoon Estates and other shoreline developments on Thursday. Accompanied by senior ministry officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, Dangiwa expressed concern over unauthorized land reclamation and construction activities that lack proper federal documentation and approval.
“There is no room for haphazard developments on the Lagos shoreline,” Dangiwa stated. “We are collaborating with the Lagos State Government to address these anomalies and ensure adherence to the law.”
During the tour, the minister and officials from the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority observed instances of developers filling parts of the shoreline with sand and commencing construction without securing necessary titles and permits.
Dangiwa emphasized the Federal Government’s determination to regulate shoreline developments, citing the Land (Title Vesting) Act of 1975, which grants the ministry authority to issue titles for shoreline properties. The Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority also plays a role in granting permits for dredging activities.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government oversees physical development in the area. Both entities are working together to ensure compliance and proper planning.
Developers have been given a one-month deadline to regularize their projects. Failure to comply will result in the revocation of titles and demolition of illegal structures.
In addition to the shoreline inspection, Dangiwa visited federal projects in Lagos, including the Ogbogbo Housing Project in Ikorodu and the Ikorodu Low-Cost Housing sites.
The minister’s visit will conclude with a stakeholder engagement on December 13, 2024, where further discussions on Lagos shoreline development are expected.
This move underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to enforcing urban development regulations and protecting Nigeria’s shoreline assets.
