The Lagos State Government on Wednesday presented land allocation letters to 98 villages across Ito-Omu, Sangotedo and the Ibeju-Lekki axis, marking a significant step in its push for structured urban expansion and inclusive development.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu handed over the allocation letters to community leaders during a ceremony held at the Ito-Omu Link Bridge in Sangotedo, describing the initiative as a deliberate move to transform the fast-growing corridor into a well-planned, economically vibrant hub.
The allocation follows the State Government’s acquisition of 16,300 hectares of land through the New Towns Development Authority (NTDA), aimed at addressing housing needs and supporting large-scale developmental projects across the axis.
Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu emphasised that Lagos must move away from unregulated expansion and embrace intentional planning that prioritises infrastructure, sustainability and inclusive growth.
“The future of Lagos cannot be built on unplanned expansion. It must be built on deliberate planning, appropriate infrastructure, secure communities and opportunities for our people to prosper,” the governor said.
He explained that the Ito-Omu development plan provides a comprehensive framework to guide growth in the area, integrating residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and recreational land use to ensure efficient infrastructure delivery and improved quality of life.
According to him, the initiative aligns with his administration’s THEMES+ Agenda, which focuses on building a resilient, inclusive and globally competitive Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu assured residents that the government would complement the land allocation with critical infrastructure, including improved road networks, drainage systems and social amenities, while also advancing plans for the Ito-Omu Waterfront Jetty to enhance connectivity within the region.
He stressed that the allocation marks the beginning of a new phase, urging beneficiaries to collaborate with government agencies to ensure orderly and sustainable development.
The governor also commended the Lands Bureau, NTDA, Office of the State Surveyor-General, consultants and other stakeholders for their roles in bringing the project to fruition.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Lands Bureau, Kamar Olowosago, praised the affected communities for their cooperation and sacrifice, noting that the initiative would unlock economic opportunities and boost socio-economic activities in the area.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiary communities, the Onibeju of Ibeju-Lekki, Oba Razak Olasunkanmi, lauded the government’s efforts but called for a balanced mix of residential and commercial development to strengthen connectivity across the villages.
He also appealed for the establishment of a technical college in the Ibeju-Lekki axis to equip youths in the communities with practical skills.
The beneficiary villages include Orofun, Agadangba, Oko-Keji, Okun-Abe, Abegede, Idi-Ori, Anikansogbo, Anwoye Oke, Anwoye Ebute, Ladaba Ebute, Idi Afon, Oguntedo, Megun, Isan, Ipesu, Arapagi Lotu, Ibon, Ito-Omu, Ladaba, Dongo, Oregun, Ladega and Ladaba Oke-Odo, among others.
