The Lagos State Government has announced sweeping urban reforms, including mandatory insurance for all commercial buildings exceeding two floors and a pilot regularization of 300 properties in Epe.

The initiative, unveiled at the 2025 Real Estate Discussions and Awards, is part of a broader strategy to modernize land administration, curb illegal developments, and promote climate-resilient urban growth.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu emphasized the urgency of compliance, warning of penalties for forged titles and unauthorized constructions. The reforms are anchored on the rollout of the Enterprise Geographic Information System (E-GIS), which promises electronic building permits within 10 minutes and real-time land verification capabilities.

Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser on E-GIS and Urban Development, highlighted the platform’s integration with international partners to enable instant land searches, online registrations, and title harmonization across legacy systems—from colonial-era Queen’s titles to federal certificates. “We’ve completed comprehensive digital mapping to support this,” Babatunde said, noting that the insurance mandate and Epe pilot aim to eliminate duplication and enhance investor confidence.

The reforms also encompass major urban renewal projects, including the redevelopment of Katangua, relocation of Okobaba sawmill to Agboyi, and new site-and-service schemes to optimize land use. Babatunde urged residents to verify property titles before transactions, as audits are underway to identify and sanction violations.

Permanent Secretary Olumide Sotire underscored the need for regulatory synergy amid rapid population growth and unplanned urban sprawl. He cited infrastructure projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, and expanded rail and water transport networks as catalysts for investment and spatial rebalancing.

Sotire also advocated for green architecture and smart technologies to support climate-resilient planning. Complementing the state’s efforts, Dr. Emeka Inegbum of Family Homes Funds outlined federal financing mechanisms—including the Affordable Housing Fund, Rental Housing Fund, Help-to-Own scheme, and Land Infrastructure Development Fund—to address housing deficits.

Thinkmint Nigeria CEO Imelda Olaoye praised the forum’s convening power, calling it a “blueprint for sustainable development” and a model for public-private collaboration.