The Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has identified over 3,700 hectares of informal spaces across more than 1,700 locations within the state. This discovery was announced by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, during the 2026 Ministerial Briefing held on May 29, 2026, to commemorate the governor's seventh year in office.
Dr. Olumide revealed that the mapping of these spaces was completed as of December 2025. He highlighted several achievements of the agency under the THEMES Plus Agenda of the current administration. Notably, Governor Sanwo-Olu approved the engagement of Octragon Multi Projects Nigeria Limited as a consultant to collaborate with the Lagos State Infrastructure and Setback Management Agency (LASISMA) in implementing the Setbacks, Common Areas and Roadsides Administration and Monitoring Project (SCRAMP).
The SCRAMP initiative is designed to unlock the social, economic, and environmental value of setbacks, common areas, roadside corridors, informal spaces, and incidental open spaces throughout the state. It involves identifying, reorganizing, and optimizing the use of all informal spaces. The project has successfully mapped over 3,700 hectares of informal spaces in more than 1,700 locations, which will be properly designated by LASISMA for appropriate use and development in line with relevant operational development plans.
Dr. Olumide also stated that LASISMA has maintained real-time data collection and collation of operators within informal urban spaces, positioning the agency as a key repository of reliable information for ministries, departments, agencies, and the state government. This effort enhances the state's readiness for emerging land-use developments.
Previously, the Lagos State Government introduced a tenancy bill to address rent hikes and fraudulent agency practices, requiring estate agents to register to curb real estate fraud and expedite landlord-tenant dispute resolution. Additionally, the government raised property transaction charges, with some fees increasing by up to 300 percent, particularly in prime locations like Lekki, Ikoyi, and Banana Island, to align with current market realities.
