News
Recommendations On How To Avoid Building Demolition In Lagos

By Dennis Isong
The Lagos State Government reiterated its commitment to uniformly applying the law during the ongoing demolition of unauthorized structures in Lekki Phase II and the surrounding areas.
One of the most awful events that can happen to anyone is investing millions in properties only to be demolished by the government later.
This begs the question of why the government was watching while construction was going on and had to wait till it became something worthwhile before coming to destroy it. One thing we should understand is that, there are some marked up areas and the government knows what they are doing.
Unfortunately, land sellers are duly aware but they try very hard to shield you from this information because of the money they hope to gain from its sales. If you are a victim,
I sympathize with you. In order not to fall victim again, I will highlight the things you should watch out for.
At Ikota, the level of encroachments is just unimaginable; people have built on the canal path and we resolved that these nuisances cannot be allowed to continue;
Recommendations
- Avoid land close to drainage canal:
Land near drainage canals is susceptible to flooding during heavy rains. Poor drainage systems can exacerbate this issue, leading to water damage to properties and posing a risk to the safety of inhabitants. Drainage canals can contribute to soil erosion, particularly during heavy rain events. This erosion can undermine the stability of buildings’ foundations, which was a factor in the demolition of some structures in Lagos. In many areas, there are regulations and building codes that prohibit construction too close to drainage canals due to the associated risks. Non-compliance can result in legal issues and property demolition, as observed in Lagos. Proximity to drainage canals can lead to safety concerns. In some cases, poor maintenance of these canals can result in accidents or structural damage. Real estate located close to drainage canals may have reduced property values due to the associated risks and inconveniences. - When getting building approval,also get drainage approval
In Lagos State, building approval and drainage approval are two distinct but interrelated processes that property developers and builders must go through when planning and constructing a new building or structure.
Building approval refers to the legal authorization granted by the Lagos State Government or relevant local authority to undertake construction or renovation of a building. It involves a thorough review of architectural plans, structural designs, and construction details to ensure they comply with building codes, safety standards, and zoning regulations. Building approval is crucial to ensure that structures are constructed safely, with proper planning, and in accordance with the law.
Drainage approval, on the other hand, pertains to the permission granted by the relevant authorities to manage the drainage and sewage systems associated with the building. It involves assessing how the building’s drainage, sewage, and wastewater systems will interact with the overall drainage infrastructure of the area. This approval is essential to prevent issues like flooding, erosion, and environmental contamination, which can result from inadequate drainage planning. By obtaining both approvals in tandem, developers can help mitigate the risks associated with inadequate drainage, such as flooding and erosion, and ensure that their construction projects are both safe and environmentally responsible. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive planning and compliance with local building and environmental regulations in Lagos State. - Follow the recommended setback
“At Ikota, the level of encroachments is just unimaginable; people have built on the canal path and we resolved that these nuisances cannot be allowed to continue; it just had to stop,’’ Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab(culled from Premium Times).
Following the recommended setback is crucial when building in Lagos to avoid the risk of demolition and legal consequences.
A setback in building terms refers to the minimum required distance between a building or structure and a property boundary, road, or other buildings. Lagos, like many urban areas, has specific building regulations that stipulate these setbacks. Lagos has zoning and building codes that mandate setbacks for safety, aesthetics, and urban planning. - Failing to adhere to these regulations can lead to legal violations and demolition orders. Setbacks are often designed to ensure that buildings have adequate spacing between them, allowing for proper ventilation, fire safety, and emergency access.
Disregarding setbacks can compromise safety. Encroaching onto neighboring properties due to insufficient setbacks can lead to property disputes and legal actions, potentially resulting in building demolition to resolve boundary conflicts.
In some cases, setbacks are established to protect public infrastructure like drainage systems. Failure to comply can disrupt these systems, causing flooding and further legal consequences.
- Government should employ the right staff with the right attitude in all the control agencies related to building.
This emphasizes the importance of having qualified and motivated personnel in government agencies responsible for overseeing and regulating building-related activities. It underscores the need to hire individuals who have the necessary knowledge, education, and expertise in fields such as architecture, engineering, urban planning, and building inspection.
These professionals are essential for making informed decisions and assessments regarding building construction, safety, and compliance with regulations.
Beyond qualifications, the right attitude is vital. Government employees working in control agencies related to building should be diligent, honest, and committed to their responsibilities.
They should prioritize the public interest, safety, and the enforcement of building codes and regulations.
Employing staff with the right attitude ensures that these agencies maintain a strong focus on quality control. It helps prevent corruption, negligence, and favoritism, which can compromise the safety and integrity of buildings.
The right staff can provide efficient oversight of construction projects, ensuring that they meet safety and environmental standards. This oversight is essential to prevent substandard construction, which can lead to disasters and costly corrections. When control agencies are staffed with qualified individuals who have the right attitude, it fosters public trust.
Citizens are more likely to have confidence in the government’s ability to regulate and enforce building standards effectively.
▪︎Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS.He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041
News
Massive Gridlock: FG reopens Independence Bridge in Lagos

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has directed the immediate reopening of the Independence Bridge in Lagos to vehicular traffic.
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, had earlier stated that the closure was for planned maintenance and rehabilitation.
She expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and appealed for public understanding.
The Federal Ministry of Works has clarified that necessary repairs on the bridge would be carried out at a later date.
The new instruction to reopen the bridge is ostensibly as a result of the gridlock caused by the closure which resulted in outcry by commuters since its closure on Tuesday, April 1.
News
JUST IN: President Tinubu to Embark on Working Visit to Paris

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart for Paris, France, today on a short working visit.
This information was stated in a press release today, April 2, 2025 by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy.
Onanuga said during the President’s visit, he will appraise his administration’s mid-term performance and assess key milestones.
“He will also use the retreat to review the progress of ongoing reforms and engage in strategic planning ahead of his administration’s second anniversary”.
“This period of reflection will inform plans to deepen ongoing reforms and accelerate national development priorities in the coming year”.
“Recent economic strides reinforce the President’s commitment to these efforts, as evidenced by the Central Bank of Nigeria reporting a significant increase in net foreign exchange reserves to $23.11 billion—a testament to the administration’s fiscal reforms since 2023 when net reserves were $3.99 billion”.
“While away, President Tinubu will remain fully engaged with his team and continue to oversee governance activities. He will return to Nigeria in about a fortnight, the statement reads.
Business
Algiers-Abuja direct flights begin April 6

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, announced the launch of Air Algérie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja, set to begin on April 6, 2025.
This is said to strengthen the diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Algeria.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the new route, which is the result of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries, will be operated by the national carrier, Air Algérie, using a Boeing 737 aircraft.
This new service is expected to boost connectivity, encourage tourism, and facilitate trade and investment between Nigeria and Algeria.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the commencement of Air Algerie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja, scheduled for 6th April 2025.
“This historic development marks a significant milestone in the growing diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Algeria.
“It is pertinent to state that it is the implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between both countries, which culminated in this successful venture,” the statement read in part.
The inaugural flight is expected to carry the Charge d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Algiers, Nigerian community leaders, and representatives from the Algerian government.
The Federal Government has extended congratulations to Air Algérie and offered its full support to ensure the success of the new service.
With affordable fares and Algeria’s proximity to Europe, the flight also offers Nigerians a convenient gateway to Europe, enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for business, tourism, and transit.
The statement added, “The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant aviation authorities, extends its warm congratulations to Air Algerie and assures all necessary support to ensure the success and sustainability of this new service.
“We believe this initiative will further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and Algeria, while opening new opportunities for mutual growth.
“The affordable fare structure and the proximity of Algeria to Europe would also provide Nigerians with a convenient gateway to Europe, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for business, tourism, and transit.”
The ministry encouraged citizens and businesses to take advantage of this new connectivity to explore opportunities for trade, tourism and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
-
News2 days ago
Kogi State enforces ban on rallies, public gatherings amidst riding security concerns
-
News2 days ago
President Tinubu congratulates Jim Ovia on admission to the freedom of the city of London
-
Politics2 days ago
I would have handled economy better than Tinubu – Obi
-
Sports2 days ago
NTTF U-12 National Hopes Week kicks off today in Lagos
-
News2 days ago
BREAKING: Tinubu Sacks NNPCL Board , Replaces Mele Kyari with Bashir Ojulari as Group CEO
-
Business2 days ago
Women make up 15% of 288 new billionaires in 2025
-
Politics2 days ago
New Political Party – TNN, Seeks INEC Registration
-
Business2 days ago
FG borrows N13.21trn from World Bank in 20 months