The Lagos State Government has imposed a new restriction limiting construction activities to the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays, across the state.
The announcement was made on Thursday by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, in a statement released by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr Mukaila Sanusi.
Dr Olumide said the directive aims to protect the environment, minimise the risk of building collapse, and enhance the general well-being of residents.
“This restriction must be strictly complied with by all stakeholders in the construction sector. It serves the public interest and will be enforced by the appropriate government agencies,” he stated.
While acknowledging that building projects may sometimes require flexibility, he explained that any extension beyond the stipulated hours must be formally requested and will be evaluated individually.
“Concessions may be granted, but only after careful review and due diligence,” he added.
The Commissioner called on residents to actively monitor their communities and report any construction activities that take place outside the approved hours.
“We urge the public to take ownership of their environment. If you notice construction going on beyond 6 p.m., please alert the relevant authorities,” Olumide said.
A construction worker at a site in the Agodo-Egbe area of Alimosho Local Government, identified only as Musa Tola, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the policy could affect project delivery timelines, but it was understandable if it helped improve safety.
“Sometimes we work overnight to meet targets, but safety is important. If the government is serious, we’ll have to adapt,” Tola remarked.
Residents have largely welcomed the policy. Mrs Ifeoma Uche, a resident of Idimu, described the move as long overdue.
“Some sites work through the night, and the noise disturbs the neighbourhood. This will help restore some peace,” she said.
Lagos has witnessed several cases of building collapse in recent years, prompting a stronger emphasis on construction oversight and safety enforcement.
The state government has confirmed that implementation of the new construction hours has already begun.
The Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development plays a pivotal role in regulating Lagos State’s physical growth through various functions:
Urban Planning and Regulation: Oversees master plans and urban regeneration to ensure orderly development.
Building Approvals and Permits: Through the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), it issues permits and enforces building standards.
Urban Renewal and Slum Upgrading: Implements redevelopment initiatives to transform distressed communities.
Monitoring and Enforcement: The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) supervises ongoing construction and addresses illegal development.
Development Control: Prevents unauthorised structures and demolishes non-compliant buildings to uphold planning regulations.