Lagos Begins Demolition of Illegal Structures in Lekki Free Trade Zone Following Final Deadline Issued to Developers
Lagos State has commenced the demolition of illegal structures within the Lekki Free Trade Zone following the expiration of an earlier ultimatum issued to developers and landowners operating without proper approvals.
The enforcement team, led by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, continued operations on what officials described as a smooth Day Four of the exercise. Crews worked through the zone clearing road corridors, dismantling unapproved buildings, and removing environmental infractions that have obstructed infrastructure development in the area.
According to the ministry, the clearing is aimed at restoring order and protecting critical road expansion work currently underway within the Free Trade Zone. In a statement shared on social media, Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab noted:
“Day four of our ongoing enforcement activities at the Lekki Free Trade Zone went smoothly. Our team continued the removal of illegal structures and the clearing of environmental infractions that have affected the road corridors in that axis.”
Government officials described the operation as part of a wider urban regeneration and environmental compliance campaign across Lagos. The state reiterated that full adherence to planning laws, approved layouts, and environmental standards is non negotiable, especially in fast growing economic zones like Lekki.
The ministry added that the enforcement will continue until all affected areas meet the required standards. Residents and stakeholders were urged to cooperate with authorities as the exercise proceeds.
Why This Matters
The Lekki FTZ is one of the most strategic development corridors in West Africa. Government crackdowns here are signals of a broader push for regulated, orderly development.
Demolitions may affect ongoing land sales and development plans, especially for estates without approved layouts or documentation.
The enforcement drive highlights renewed pressure on developers to comply with planning rules as Lagos expands major road and industrial projects in the corridor.