No more approvals for illegally created islands in Lagos

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong warning to Lagos State and other subnational governments against granting approvals for unauthorized islands and developments encroaching on designated road setbacks and maritime areas.

Speaking on Thursday during the commissioning of the Lekki Deep Sea Port Access Road, Tinubu expressed pride in the project’s completion, which he initiated during his tenure as Lagos State governor. He described the access road as a legacy infrastructure that will improve logistics efficiency, reduce costs for port users, and boost economic returns on investment.

However, the president condemned the rising trend of illegal island creation and unregulated land reclamation, warning that such activities undermine national development and long-term infrastructure planning.

“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 said. “We must secure stable setbacks for future expansion and infrastructure development to strengthen our road network.”

He emphasized that any planning approvals granted on existing setbacks without federal collaboration would be revoked, particularly in Lagos.

“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,” he urged. “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.”

Tinubu stressed the need for coordinated infrastructure development aligned with national priorities and warned that unsanctioned urban expansion would no longer be tolerated.

Earlier, he hailed the progress of the Lekki Port project, calling it a “huge success” and a testament to the potential of public-private partnerships. “I can brag about that,” he said.

He also praised Aliko Dangote’s massive investment in the region, referencing the nearby Dangote Refinery, which he called “a great phenomenon” and “a massive investment” that reflects confidence in Nigeria’s future.