The Lagos State Government has issued a directive to members of the Association of Estate Agents in Nigeria (AEAN), instructing them not to engage in any property transactions without a valid Planning Permit in the state.
Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, conveyed this message during a courtesy visit by the AEAN leadership to the ministry.
Emphasizing the association’s crucial role in the built environment, Olumide urged AEAN members to advocate for organized, orderly, and sustainable development by ensuring adherence to proper building procedures.
He suggested that estate agents should request to see the Planning Permit before entering property transactions, contributing to efforts to curb illegal developments and enhance sustainability.
Contrary to misconceptions, Olumide clarified that the process of obtaining a Planning Permit is straightforward, clear, and simple.
He stated, “Let your members and the public know that existing buildings without Planning Permit can still apply for it.”
In addition to emphasizing the importance of Planning Permits, Olumide encouraged AEAN to support government efforts by monitoring, reporting irregularities, and training artisans on standard measures at construction sites. Addressing the issue of building collapses, he expressed confidence that collaboration with AEAN could contribute significantly to reducing such incidents in Lagos State.
The commissioner urged AEAN to align with the upcoming Lagos State Urban Development Policy by submitting memorandums that would shape the policy. Bola Aliu, Director of Technical Services, suggested extending collaboration to the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), responsible for the government’s regeneration program.
In response, Mr. Gbenga Ismail, the Vice Chairman of AEAN, conveyed the association’s commitment to collaborating with the government to enhance the integrity of the built environment. As AEAN enters its first decade, the intention is to actively contribute to sanitizing the real estate sector in Lagos State.
