Table of Contents
- Announcement of Enforcement
- Compliance Deadline
- Enforcement Measures
- Public Safety Considerations
- Previous Directive
The Lagos State Government has announced that it will initiate comprehensive enforcement actions against individuals and organizations involved in illegal land reclamation and waterfront encroachment throughout the state.
This announcement was made in a statement released on Monday by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab.
According to Wahab, the enforcement activities will commence on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, following the conclusion of a seven-day ultimatum given earlier on September 18 and 19, respectively.
He clarified that the grace period for compliance and the suspension of all unauthorized reclamation activities ended on September 25, 2025, indicating that the government will now enforce the relevant environmental regulations promptly.
“It is essential to inform the public, especially individuals, developers, and corporate entities engaged in unauthorized reclamation or waterfront encroachment, that the grace period for compliance has expired,” the statement read.
The commissioner stated that, in accordance with the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law of 2017 and other existing regulations, the government will now implement the following actions:
Removal of all illegal reclamation structures and fill materials conducted without an approved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Drainage Clearance Certificates.
Seizure of all reclamation equipment and materials discovered at unauthorized sites.
Prosecution of offenders under the environmental and urban development laws of the state.
Wahab emphasized that this enforcement initiative is vital for environmental protection, flood prevention, and public safety.
He also warned residents against purchasing land from illegal reclamation operators, cautioning that such transactions will not be recognized by the government.
“Enough is enough,” Wahab declared, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to restoring order and protecting Lagos’ coastal and waterfront areas.
This announcement follows an earlier directive from the state government that suspended all reclamation projects across Lagos due to the environmental and social risks associated with ongoing activities in wetlands, floodplains, and lagoon regions.
Wahab further warned that failure to comply with the directive would leave the ministry with no choice but to decommission reclaimed sites, prosecute violators, and arrest offenders found operating illegally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions will the Lagos State Government take against illegal land reclamation?
The government will remove illegal structures, seize reclamation equipment, and prosecute offenders under environmental laws.
When will the enforcement actions begin?
Enforcement actions will commence on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
What should residents know about purchasing land?
Residents are advised against purchasing land from illegal reclamation operators, as such transactions will not be recognized by the government.
