The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, has initiated efforts to formalize ownership of its landed properties nationwide.
In particular, it has called on waterfront property owners to comply with legal requirements and ensure proper documentation.
Dr. Shuaib Belgore, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized that these measures align with the Supreme Court judgment of January 2024, which affirmed federal authority over waterfront, shoreline areas, and waterways setbacks.
To facilitate this process, the Honourable Minister, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has engaged key stakeholders, especially waterfront property owners in Lagos State, to secure proper documentation, titling, permits, and statutory charges in accordance with the exclusive legislative list under the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and the Lagos State Government have clearly defined roles and responsibilities regarding the administration of landed properties as provided by law,” Belgore stated.
Consequently, he urged all waterfront property owners, dredgers, and boat operators to ensure they process the necessary documents to conduct their businesses without legal obstructions.
This includes compliance with regulations set by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, NIWA, and, where applicable, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
In response to a recent publication by LASBCA addressing residents of Banana Island, Belgore reaffirmed that waterfront property owners must adhere strictly to the Supreme Court’s January 2024 ruling.
“The general public and LASBCA should note that the Land Use Act, CAP L.5, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, along with the exclusive legislative list in the 1999 Constitution, vests the Federal Government with authority over all lands along the shorelines, including Banana Island, Osborne Phase I and II, and Lekki Waterfront,” he stated.
Oyenike Oyeniyi
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