President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern warning to the Lagos State Government and other states regarding land approvals on federal government road pathways, vowing to revoke all such approvals.
The President made this declaration on Thursday during his speech at the launch of the reconstruction of the Deep Sea Port Access Road through Epe-Ijebu Ode.
Addressing state governors, Tinubu emphasized the importance of collaboration in infrastructural development projects. "Please, our dear governors, let's work together. Don't give planning approvals without collaborating with the Surveyor General of the Federation and the Ministry of Works on these roads," he stated.
With the Deputy Governor of Lagos State in attendance, the President delivered a pointed message: "I'm glad the Deputy Governor of Lagos State is here. Take it that we will revoke all those approvals given on setbacks, and please note that we are very serious about it—no more approvals for those unapproved islands being created illegally."
Infrastructure Collaboration Between Federal and State Governments
The President's warning highlights ongoing tensions between federal and state authorities regarding land use and development along federal infrastructure corridors. Road setbacks—areas reserved alongside highways for future expansion and utilities—have increasingly been encroached upon through state-issued approvals.
This development comes as the federal government intensifies efforts to improve Nigeria's infrastructure, particularly transportation networks connecting economic hubs like the Deep Sea Port to major cities.
The Epe-Ijebu Ode road reconstruction project represents a significant investment in enhancing Nigeria's logistics capabilities and is expected to boost economic activities in Lagos and Ogun states when completed.
Analysts suggest that the President's firm stance may lead to increased scrutiny of existing developments along federal highways nationwide, potentially affecting property owners who received approvals without proper federal coordination.
