- June 6, 2025
No More Illegal Islands”: Tinubu Warns Lagos, States Over Unauthorized Land Approvals
Speaking on Thursday during the commissioning of the Lekki Deep Sea Port Access Road in Lagos, the President decried the trend of unregulated land reclamation and reckless planning approvals, calling them a threat to national infrastructure, coastal safety, and long-term development strategy.
“I have directed the Honorable Minister of Works, the Surveyor-General of the Federation, and all state governors—this legacy project must be protected,” Tinubu declared. “We must secure stable setbacks for future expansion and infrastructure development to strengthen our road network.”
He emphasized that any planning approvals granted on federal setbacks without proper collaboration would be revoked, stressing that Lagos and other states must desist from issuing approvals for illegally created islands or waterfront settlements.
“Please, our dear governors, let’s work together. Don’t grant planning approvals without involving the Surveyor-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Works,” Tinubu stated firmly. “I’m glad the Deputy Governor of Lagos State is here and taking note—we will revoke all approvals already issued on setbacks. No more approvals for illegally created islands.”
The President, who initiated the Lekki Deep Sea Port project during his time as Governor of Lagos State, expressed pride in the successful completion of the port access road. He described it as a legacy infrastructure that will enhance logistics efficiency, lower operational costs, and deliver higher economic returns.
Tinubu hailed the project as a shining example of public-private partnership (PPP) success. “I can brag about that,” he said.
As his administration pushes for coordinated infrastructure development, the President made it clear that unregulated urban expansion and disregard for national planning protocols would no longer be tolerated.