As FG constitutes building code advisory c’ttee 

The Lagos State government, through the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, yesterday, emphasised the significance of layout plans for estate developments in the state.
 
Speaking at a live radio programme monitored in Lagos, Olumide explained that a layout plan is a crucial requirement for all land developments spanning 10,000 square metres or more. According to him, a layout plan serves several purposes, including designating different land uses and allocating them to suitable areas, planning utility needs, such as power, water, and waste disposal, as well as designing drainage networks to prevent flooding and creating road networks to ensure effective connectivity within the estate.
 
However, despite its importance, Olumide said some developers exploit the housing shortage by flouting regulations, compromising communities’ well-being and the state’s vision of a livable, organised, and sustainable physical environment. 
 
He commended developers who have responded to the ministry’s call to regularise their status, particularly those listed among the 176 estates without layout approvals.
 
On the amnesty programme for existing buildings without planning permits, the commissioner offered hope to Lagosians, stating that the programme might be reintroduced soon. 
 
“Due to the success of the Amnesty Programme introduced last year with the gracious approval of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, we are strongly considering reintroducing the programme for another three months,” he said.
 
The commissioner emphasised the importance of adhering to planning regulations to ensure sustainable and well-planned developments in Lagos State, highlighting the government’s role in the built sector.

MEANWHILE, the Federal Government has constituted the National Building Code Advisory Committee (NBCAC) to reposition Nigeria’s building and construction industry on a solid foundation of standards, regulations, and professionalism.
 
By inaugurating the committee, they are demonstrating their determination to ensure that every Nigerian home, office, school, hospital, and place of assembly is built to specifications that guarantee safety, durability, and sustainability.
 
At the ceremony in Abuja, the Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf A.Atta, said the building code is the most important regulatory instrument for the built environment, setting its core and minimum standards on pre-design, design, construction, and post-construction stages to ensure quality, safety, and proficiency in the building industry.