Lagos summit proposes South-West spatial development compact across six states

Experts and policymakers at the two-day Lagos Physical Planning Summit 2.0, held in Victoria Island, called for an integrated regional development framework to address urban challenges that cross state boundaries, arguing that coordinated planning across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti would improve transport networks, strengthen economic corridors and promote sustainable growth.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele proposed a Lagos-to-South-West Spatial Development and Investment Compact to foster collaboration among the six states on cross-border infrastructure, environmental resilience, regional economic development and investment opportunities. He said the framework should bring together state governments, relevant federal institutions, planning authorities, infrastructure agencies, private-sector organisations and development partners to identify common priorities and practical implementation plans.

Bamidele said regional transportation and logistics, industrial development, power infrastructure, housing, environmental management and investment mobilisation require greater cooperation among the states. He called for improved land administration, digital innovation, transparent development regulations and effective public-private partnerships, stressing that regional projects must have clear funding arrangements, defined responsibilities and measurable performance targets.

Lagos State governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the state Head of Service Bode Agoro, said rapid population growth, expanding economic activity and limited land resources made proper planning essential. He stressed that decisions on land use, housing, transportation, drainage and infrastructure must be coordinated to prevent congestion, flooding and overcrowded settlements, and called for stronger collaboration among ministries, departments and agencies, consistent enforcement of planning regulations and transparent approval processes.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development Dr Oluyinka Olumide said master plans and model city plans must guide infrastructure provision, housing, transportation, environmental management and investment decisions rather than remain documents without effective implementation. He said the Electronic Physical Planning Permit Processing System, introduced on April 1, 2026, was designed to let applicants process planning permit applications remotely, reduce unnecessary human interference and improve efficiency without compromising planning standards or public safety.

The Permanent Secretary in the Office of Physical Planning, Tpl Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, commended the state government's commitment to physical planning through its T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, and said the summit's recommendations would strengthen partnerships and promote practical solutions for sustainable urban development in Lagos and the wider region.