The Lagos State Government has announced plans to introduce a new Building Code next year, aimed at elevating the city’s infrastructure to meet high-performance standards, thereby contributing to its transformation into a sustainable and Smart City.
This commitment was shared during the Lagos State Executive Council Retreat on the Domestication of the Lagos Building Code, organized by the Office of the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, held at Ikeja GRA on Wednesday.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, speaking at the event, highlighted the importance of enhanced collaboration across all ministries and agencies within the built environment sector to ensure the city’s growth aligns with global best practices.
“The Lagos Building Code is designed to create a regulatory framework that enhances the resilience of our city,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said. “Lagos is the first state to domesticate the National Building Code initiated by the Federal Government, but what sets ours apart is the input from all cabinet members, as this will impact various sectors of society.”
He added, “What we aim to do is to establish a building regulation that reflects international standards—covering construction design, land use, building materials, and sustainability. Ultimately, this will improve health, safety, and overall occupancy, making Lagos more resilient and better equipped to absorb future challenges, positioning it among the world’s leading cities.”
Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, explained that the new Lagos Building Code will complement existing regulations, addressing challenges in land use, urban planning, and physical development. He emphasized that it will also focus on building safety, sustainability, and preventing structural collapses.
“We’ve been working on adapting the National Building Code to suit the unique needs of Lagos, and by next year, we’ll roll out our own version,” Babatunde said. “The code has been developed through a participatory process, engaging professionals, academics, market leaders, and the public, ensuring that it’s both comprehensive and widely accepted.”
Engr. Olufemi Daramola, Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, described the initiative as a key step towards creating a “Green Lagos.” He explained that the new Building Code will help ensure that all future construction is planned properly and contributes to the development of durable infrastructure.
At the retreat, members of the Lagos State Executive Council also discussed strategies for sensitizing residents about the Lagos Building Code ahead of its implementation, aiming to ensure a smooth transition and widespread compliance.
