The Lagos State Government has officially limited construction activities across the state to between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays.
The directive was announced by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, in a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Mukaila Sanusi.
Dr. Olumide explained that the restriction is intended to protect the environment, reduce the frequency of building collapses, and enhance the well-being of residents.
“This restriction must be strictly adhered to by all stakeholders in the construction sector. It is in the public interest and will be enforced by relevant government agencies,” he said.
While acknowledging the dynamic nature of construction projects, the Commissioner stated that requests for extended work hours would only be considered through formal applications. “Concessions may be granted, but only after due diligence and evaluation,” he added.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report construction sites that operate outside the approved hours. “We encourage the public to take ownership of their environment. If you observe construction activities going on outside the approved hours, please report them to the appropriate authorities,” Olumide said.
A construction worker in the Agodo-Egbe area of Alimosho Local Government, who identified himself as Musa Tola, told NAN that the policy might affect project timelines but acknowledged its potential benefits. “Sometimes we work overnight to meet deadlines, but safety is important. If the government is serious about this, we will have to adjust,” Tola said.
Mrs. Ifeoma Uche, a resident of Idimu, also welcomed the policy. “Some sites work all night, and the noise disturbs everyone. I think this will bring some sanity,” she said.
Lagos State has experienced a number of building collapse incidents in recent years, prompting increased scrutiny of construction practices and stricter enforcement of regulations. The government confirmed that the enforcement of the new working hours will begin immediately.
The Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development is responsible for regulating and overseeing urban development in Lagos. Its duties include implementing master plans, issuing building permits through the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, upgrading slums, and enforcing building standards through agencies like the Lagos State Building Control Agency.
The ministry is also charged with controlling unauthorized developments and ensuring that physical growth within the state aligns with approved planning regulations.
