The Lagos State Government has reduced the minimum land size required for estate development from 10,000 square metres to 5,000 square metres.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, disclosed this during the ministry’s maiden Quarterly Media Parley held at Alausa, Ikeja.

Olumide said the decision reflects current realities in Lagos, where rapid population growth and urbanisation are driving the demand for housing and estate projects.

He revealed that some of the promoters of the 176 non-compliant estates published in August have approached the ministry for assistance to regularise their status, adding that enforcement would soon begin against those who remain defiant.

According to him, the regularisation and enforcement exercise would be extended to other parts of Lagos, including Ikorodu and Ikeja, with new guidelines to be introduced for communities converted into estates without approval.

Highlighting the importance of Lagos’ Operative Development Plans, the commissioner stressed that major infrastructure projects, including the Blue and Red Rail Lines, flyovers, and highways are tied to these plans.

He further announced the completion of several Model City and Master Plans for Alimosho, Kosofe, Lagos Island, and Badagry, urging government agencies and stakeholders to adhere strictly to their provisions.

Olumide also commended the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Agency for surpassing expectations in processing planning permits, noting that applicants can now obtain approvals within 10 days of payment.

He disclosed that the process will soon be fully automated to enhance efficiency.

The commissioner added that over 3,000 hectares of land across Lagos had been earmarked for the transformation of informal spaces, including areas under power-line and gas-line corridors.

These spaces will be redesigned for structured developments such as parking zones to ease traffic congestion in high-density parts of the state.