The Lagos State Government has successfully relocated the Okobaba plank market in Ebute Meta to a new purpose-built site, Timberville, in Agbowa. As part of the relocation, the government has provided 260 units of two-bedroom flats to accommodate the traders.
This was disclosed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, during the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing at Alausa, Ikeja, held to mark the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.
Dr. Babatunde explained that the relocation is part of a broader urban renewal initiative aimed at revitalising major markets and improving living and working conditions for residents.
He revealed that 21 markets—including Computer Village, Abule Egba, Alabama Transnational Market, Pelewura, Katangowa, and Jankara Gorodome—are currently undergoing relocation, revitalisation, or redevelopment through the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA).
According to him, LASURA is working towards achieving a 50 percent annual reduction of slums and squatter settlements across Lagos. This, he said, will be accomplished through the construction, upgrading, or rehabilitation of drainage infrastructure and road networks in affected areas.
Dr. Babatunde also reported that, in the past year, 140 consultants have been certified as State Accreditors. These professionals are responsible for screening building drawings, conducting stage inspections, and monitoring illegal or non-conforming structures under the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA)—all in a bid to prevent building collapse.
He added that LASBCA detected 8,663 building infractions during the review period, while 1,136 building authorisations were issued to developers poised to commence new construction projects.
Looking ahead, Dr. Babatunde outlined LASURA’s two-year projection, which includes the regeneration of the Ipodo slum settlement using inclusive renewal methods. He also announced plans to establish a streamlined and sustainable process for property applicants and urban regeneration efforts.
To encourage eco-friendly development, LASURA will introduce a 30 percent rebate incentive for individuals or organisations willing to construct Green Eco-houses in the state.