The Lagos State Government has unveiled a comprehensive initiative targeting a 50% annual reduction in slum settlements across the state through extensive urban regeneration and infrastructure upgrades. The move aims to improve living conditions, enhance infrastructure, and foster sustainable development in some of Lagos’s most challenged communities.
Speaking at a ministerial press briefing in Ikeja, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, detailed the government’s progress. “Our urban regeneration efforts, led by the Lagos State Urban Renewal Authority (LASURA), have resulted in the upgrading of 36 roads across key local government areas including Somolu, Bariga, Surulere, and Ifelodun,” he said. “We are also implementing comprehensive drainage solutions and water reticulation projects to support these communities.”
The regeneration program targets nine major slum communities identified as grossly deficient in essential facilities. These include Ilasan Housing Estate, Ikota Housing Estate, Adeniji-Adele Housing Estate, Makoko, parts of Shomolu/Bariga, Ifelodun/Ijora-Badia, Obalende, Isale-Eko, and Ebute-Ero. The initiative is part of the broader Lagos State Development Plan (2015-2025) and the T.H.E.M.E.S. Agenda, which envisions a sustainable and smart megacity.
Mrs. Ajibike Shomade, General Manager of LASURA, emphasized the legal backing for the project: “The Lagos Urban Regional Planning and Development Law empowers LASURA to prepare and implement improvement plans aimed at rehabilitating and upgrading blighted communities to ensure provision of infrastructural facilities and amenities.”
One of the flagship projects is the regeneration of the Otumara slum in Ebute Meta. LASURA has engaged residents directly in the planning process to ensure inclusive development. Olajide Abiodun, Special Adviser on Urban Development, assured affected residents of fair compensation and urged them to regularize land documents to benefit fully from the redevelopment.
The government’s approach balances upgrading existing structures with necessary clearance of dilapidated buildings, aiming to create vibrant, safe, and economically viable neighborhoods. Dr. Babatunde added, “Additional urban renewal efforts are underway in areas such as Lakowe Phase II, Adeniji Adele Low-cost Housing Estate, Jakande Estate, Ilasan, Lekki, Ipodo-Olowu, Ikeja, and informal communities across Ajegunle, Alimosho, Agege, and Ajeromi-Ifelodun.”
Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho, reassured Lagosians that the plan prioritizes improving living standards rather than displacing residents. “We are committed to building new houses, schools, and health centers to make these communities more comfortable and sustainable,” he said.
The urban renewal drive also includes upgrading drainage systems to mitigate flooding, road rehabilitation to improve accessibility, and water projects to enhance sanitation. These infrastructure improvements are expected to stimulate local economies and improve residents’ quality of life.
This ambitious project aligns with Lagos State’s vision to reduce slum prevalence by 5% annually and transform informal settlements into well-planned urban communities. It also addresses long-standing challenges such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, insecurity, and inadequate social amenities.
Residents and developers are encouraged to liaise with LASURA to ensure their activities align with the state’s urban renewal objectives. The agency has invited town planning professionals to participate in consultancy roles to guide the regeneration projects.
As Lagos continues its rapid urbanization, this phased approach to slum upgrading represents a critical step toward inclusive and sustainable city development.
