The Lagos State Government has declared that it will commence strict enforcement against illegal land reclamation and waterfront encroachment starting Wednesday, October 15, after the expiration of a seven-day grace period given to offenders.
This was confirmed in a statement by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who noted that the enforcement will be spearheaded by his ministry.
Wahab explained that the decision followed two public notices published in The Punch and The Nation on September 18 and 19, cautioning developers, individuals, and companies involved in unauthorized reclamation to stop or face sanctions.
He added that with the grace period ending on September 25, the state could no longer postpone enforcement.
“Following the expiration of a 7-day ultimatum given by the Lagos State Government through two Public Notices published in two separate ANNOUNCEMENTS on September 18th and 19th in the Punch and The Nation newspapers respectively,” Wahab wrote.
“It has become imperative 1. To notify the general public, particularly individuals, developers and corporate bodies engaging in unauthorised land reclamation and waterfront encroachment, that the grace period of SEVEN DAYS for compliance and cessation of illegal reclamation activities as contained in our earlier public notices have since expired on 25th September, 2025.
“2. Consequently, in accordance with the provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017 and other extant regulations, the Ministry shall commence immediate and full enforcement actions, effective from Wednesday, 15th October, 2025.”
He said the government will begin the “Removal of all illegal reclamation structures and fillings without the Statutory EIA and Drainage Clearance Certificate.”
The commissioner added that any equipment or materials found on sites without proper approval will be seized, and offenders will be prosecuted in line with the state’s environmental and urban development laws.
Wahab noted that the state’s actions are necessary to protect the environment, prevent flooding and ensure public safety within the state.
Wahab also warned the general public against purchasing land or property from unapproved reclamation operators.
“The General Public are hereby warned from patronising or buying from such illegal reclamation operators so as not to fall victim,” Wahab said.