Lagos: Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has launched a new land mapping project aimed at identifying and putting informal lands across the state to better use. Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Sam Egube, spoke at the handing over of three operational vehicles to the Lagos State Informal Space Management Agency (LASISMA) on Tuesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, LASISMA is the state government agency responsible for managing informal spaces and regulating informal businesses. The governor stated that the initiative would help the government to map and define informal land. He noted that open spaces and setbacks not officially designated for any use could be put to more productive and aesthetic use.
The purpose of the unveiling is to inform the public about the new mapping project for informal spaces across Lagos. These lands, which are not part of the formal development plan such as incidental open spaces or road setbacks, are important. The aim is to define their use and ensure proper utilization, Sanwo-Olu explained.
The governor announced that within the next six months, a pilot scheme would begin across the state. He stated that the informal lands would be mapped, reviewed, and their purpose determined by the state Ministry of Physical Planning. He also warned against unauthorized use of these spaces, emphasizing the need for formal designation for specific purposes to organize the city better.
State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, mentioned that the project is part of efforts to improve the environment of Lagos and better manage the state’s limited land resources. He highlighted the importance of making the best use of every space, including those not formally developed.
Dr. Olumide Oluyinka assured that legitimate operations such as parks or transport hubs on informal lands would still be allowed but regulated properly, with payment required for their use. The goal is to ensure better organization, increased safety, and revenue generation for the state.
Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, noted that the project would end arbitrary land use and bring order to public spaces’ utilization. The project aims to clearly designate each space’s purpose, preventing misuse.
Mr. Dasisi Osho, General Manager of LASISMA, expressed gratitude to the governor for providing the agency with three vehicles to support its operations. He emphasized that these resources would enhance the agency’s efficiency in transforming informal spaces across the state, benefiting residents and supporting the government’s broader development goals.