Lagos State Government Pauses Planning Approvals Along Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road

The Lagos State Government has announced the immediate suspension of all planning approvals along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road corridor.

This decision, disclosed by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, is aimed at preventing unregulated construction and ensuring that the right of way for the major infrastructure project is preserved.

According to the government, the suspension affects all pending and new applications for building permits, redesigns, and land-use approvals within the designated path of the highway within Lagos territory.

The suspension is to remain in place until further notice, as the state government undertakes planning reviews and consultations with stakeholders.

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, a 700-kilometre highway project launched by the Federal Government in 2024, has sparked widespread discussions due to its impact on coastal communities, private developments, and critical infrastructure.

In Lagos, several properties have already been affected by the project’s alignment, including portions of the Landmark Beach resort, which were demolished to pave way for the road.

The state government’s action comes amid rising concerns from residents and developers along the route. Communities such as Okun-Ajah, Moba, and Ogombo have reported property demolitions and fear further displacement without adequate compensation. Some affected residents have taken legal steps to challenge the demolitions.

A recent suit filed by Okun-Ajah residents was dismissed by a Federal High Court for lack of jurisdiction but has since been refiled at the Lagos State High Court.

In April, following public outcry, the Federal Government slightly realigned the route to avoid damaging critical undersea cable infrastructure used by major telecommunications firms.

However, that adjustment did not resolve all controversies, and concerns persist over how property rights and development interests will be managed.

The Lagos State Government said the suspension is not a punitive measure but a necessary intervention to prevent further complications and ensure that the long-term planning of the coastal road is not undermined by uncoordinated construction.

Urban development experts have praised the suspension as a proactive move but stressed the need for transparent communication, a clear resumption timeline, and fair compensation processes for affected parties. Developers and residents in the affected corridor are now awaiting further guidance from state authorities on the way forward.