BY CHINYERE OBIORA – Worried about evident environmental threats posed by the proliferation of projects’ sites along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway, the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced the immediate suspension of planning approvals along the Road.
According to the administration, the directive is meant to address the highway project’s impact on the Physical Development Plans in Lagos State going forward.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, who made the announcement in Alausa on Monday, June 16, 2025, said the order became necessary because the project has significantly impacted the just-concluded Ode-Omi Action Area Plan.
He said also affected are the ongoing Ibeju-Lekki Model City Plan and Lekki Comprehensive Master Plan currently at various stages of preparation.
A statement signed by Mukaila Sanusi, Director, Public Affairs, quoted the Commissioner as saying; “As a result of the effects of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road on our Development Plans, it is germane to review the situation on ground and align it with the Development Plans to forestall any further distortion now or in the future.
“In this connection, it is equally important to temporarily suspend Planning Approvals in the axis until further notice.”
The statement further explained that “the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), has been mandated to carry out this suspension order until it is directed otherwise.”
Dr Olumide assured that the Lagos State Government is committed to an organised, livable, inclusive, and sustainable built environment, adding that the State is well positioned to reap the many benefits of the inter-state Coastal Highway.
