The Lagos Standard

  Lagos State is increasingly cementing its status as a vibrant voice on the international stage , positioning itself as a premier destination of choice through strategic partnerships, cultural diplomacy, and a growing presence on global tourism platforms. This was highlighted by the State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka , during the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing marking the sixth anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration in Alausa, Ikeja, on Wednesday. She emphasised that through innovative collaborations and strategic engagements , the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture is working tirelessly to ensure Lagos not only attracts global visitors but also delivers a world-class experience that is seamless, enriching, and unforgettable. Earlier this year, she noted, the Ministry took a major step to enhance international tourism experiences by engaging directly with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to strea...

  The Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe , welcomed a delegation from the Lagos State Resilience Office (LASRO) , led by Chief Resilience Officer, Dr. Folayinka Dania , during a courtesy visit to the Ministry on Wednesday. The visit was part of ongoing efforts to enhance inter-agency collaboration and align the Ministry’s strategic programmes with the overarching goals of the revised Lagos Resilience Strategy (LRS 2.0) . This initiative forms a key component of the State Government’s commitment to fostering institutional synergy around sustainable development, economic empowerment , and resilience planning . During the meeting held in the Ministry's Conference Room, Hon. Ajigbotafe reaffirmed the Ministry’s crucial role in driving sustainable wealth creation and employment opportunities through targeted policies, innovative initiatives, and capacity-building programmes. “Our Ministry has made significant strides in support...

  In a strategic move to significantly enhance the business landscape, the Lagos State Government , through its Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation (OTCI) , recently concluded a pivotal two-day technical meeting involving 17 key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) . As the lead entity driving reforms in the state, the OTCI is proactively preparing for the upcoming World Bank assessment , fostering strong collaboration among stakeholders to create a more business-friendly environment . Speaking at the sessions, Mrs. Toyin Ajous-Ademuyiwa , Director-General of the OTCI , highlighted the strategic importance of the meetings. “These sessions reflect our unwavering commitment to transforming Lagos’ business environment, elevating the state’s Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) rankings, and stimulating sustainable economic growth,” she stated. She further emphasised that the reform efforts are not solely aimed at securing funding, but are focused on building...

The Lagos State Government has officially appointed Dr. (Mrs.) Ayodeji Ogunmuyiwa as the new Provost of the Lagos State College of Nursing (LASCON), Midwifery and Public Health Nursing . The appointment was formalised through a letter signed by the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro . Presenting the letter on behalf of the State Government at Alausa on Wednesday , the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule , described the appointment as timely, aligning with the government’s ongoing efforts to reposition its tertiary health institutions and enhance healthcare delivery systems for greater efficiency and effectiveness. He underscored the crucial role of LASCON in addressing the healthcare needs of the state’s growing population by producing world-class health professionals . “Dr. Ogunmuyiwa’s appointment is based purely on merit, reflecting her vast administrative experience, strong professional background, and remarkable achievements,” the Commissioner stat...

  The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to moving away from the outdated “collect and dump” waste management approach, embracing a sustainable circular economy aimed at creating a cleaner, healthier, and more livable city for all residents. Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab , emphasized this vision during a live appearance on TVC’s Your View on Wednesday. He called on residents to adopt proper waste disposal as a lifestyle, highlighting its critical role in building a sustainable environment. Addressing recent concerns about localised odours, Mr. Wahab clarified that while Lagos is evolving into a megacity with modern waste management systems, localised smells near landfill sites—such as Olusosun (Ojota) and Solous III (Igando) —are not uncommon globally and do not imply that “Lagos smells.” He noted a significant step forward with the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the government, which is expect...

In a landmark move to strengthen peace-building and expand access to justice, the Lagos State Government has announced the elevation of the Citizens' Mediation Centre (CMC) from a department to a full-fledged Bureau . This transformative initiative, led by the Office of Transformation, Creativity, and Innovation (OTCI) , is designed to boost the CMC's authority, resources, and operational efficiency in delivering conflict resolution services to residents. During a recent engagement with the CMC leadership, Mrs. Toyin Anjous Ademuyiwa , Director-General of OTCI, expressed the government's enthusiasm for this development. “This elevation underscores our commitment to enhancing service delivery, fostering peace, and ensuring every Lagosian has access to effective conflict resolution mechanisms,” she said. She emphasized that the transition to Bureau status aims to achieve key objectives, including enhanced recognition, increased resources and funding, and improved acc...

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka , has revealed that the State Government allocated over ₦8,475,238,265.00 in the past year to support and celebrate 143 cultural, arts, and tourism events , including festivals. She made this announcement on Wednesday while addressing the press during the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing at Alausa, Ikeja, marking the sixth year in office of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration . According to Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka, this investment underscores Lagos State’s strategic commitment to consolidating its position as Africa’s leading hub for arts, culture, and entertainment , while also encouraging the active participation of cultural and creative-oriented individuals and organizations. She stated: “This investment reflects Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering vision to build a resilient creative economy that empowers talents, preserves our rich heritage, and amplifies the global visibility o...

  On Thursday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State met with the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot , to discuss strengthening Lagos-EU relations and boosting multilateral business ties. The high-level meeting, held at the State House in Marina, centered around the proposed ‘Omi Eko’ project —a visionary €410 million initiative aimed at transforming Lagos’ inland waterways into a world-class transportation hub. The project will be jointly financed by the EU, French Development Agency (AFD), European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Lagos State Government. Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed excitement about the project, which will feature high-capacity electric boats, expanded stations, and improved security and surveillance for the waterways. He noted that the initiative aligns with his administration's vision of delivering an integrated urban transportation system. Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of timely funding and swift commencement o...

 Commuters and motorists in Lagos on Wednesday recounted severe disruptions as multiple roads were shut down by security operatives for the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), held at Eko Hotels and Suites. The high-profile event, attended by President Bola Tinubu and other West African leaders, resulted in gridlock across key areas of the city. Many commercial drivers were stranded, while passengers abandoned vehicles and continued their journeys on foot. Key access routes, including Alfred Rewane Road and Falomo Bridge in Ikoyi, as well as Ahmadu Bello Way on Victoria Island, were completely closed to regular traffic. Despite travel advisories issued by the Lagos State Government earlier in the week, frustration among commuters was palpable. Many reported being caught off guard by the scale of the lockdown. The government had announced alternative routes via Adetokunbo Ademola Road, Ozumba Mbadiwe, and Akin Adesola, but the ...

  The Lagos State Government has reiterated the officially approved speed limits for key roads across the state. Motorists are urged to adhere strictly to these limits to ensure safety and compliance with traffic laws. Approved Speed Limits by Road Road Name/Location Speed Limit (km/h) Third Mainland Bridge 80 Alapere–Ogudu Road 80 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way (NITEL Area) 60 Ojota Bridge (by Motorway) 50 Lekki–Ikoyi Link Bridge 50–60 Allen Avenue Junction 50 Nurudeen Olowopopo Road 50 Ikorodu Road 50–60 Oshodi–Apapa Expressway 50 Epe Expressway 80 Murtala Muhammed International Airport Rd 60 Traffic Offense Penalties • Speed Limit Violation: ₦50,000 • Running a Red Light: ₦20,000 Note: The fine is payable by the driver in control of the vehicle at the time of the traffic offense. The Lagos State Government urges all road users to comply with these regulations. Let us continue to be safety-conscious, law-abiding, and professional on the roads—always.

  The Lagos State Government has warned developers and property owners across the state not to tamper with or remove official seals placed on buildings that break planning regulations. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) said such actions are illegal and punishable under existing laws. The General Manager of LASPPPA, Kehinde Osinaike, said any property sealed by the agency had been confirmed to violate the Lagos State Planning Permit Law. “Once a property is sealed, trying to break or remove the seal is a serious offence,” Osinaike warned. “Anyone caught doing so will face legal consequences. The government will not tolerate defiance of its planning regulations.” He advised affected developers and property owners not to take matters into their own hands but to visit the appropriate LASPPPA District Office to resolve any issues related to the contravention notices before further action is taken. Osinaike also called o...

  The Lagos State Government announced on Tuesday that it has started adding the National Identification Number (NIN) of residents to the Lagos State Single Social Register. This register is a part of the National Social Register and is being used to help the Federal Government distribute cash transfers to vulnerable residents. The state’s Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Ope George, shared this news during a press conference at Alausa, Ikeja. He revealed that 130,000 heads of households have already been linked to the register. George explained that this step is necessary to ease the hardship caused by the collapse of the forex window, the removal of fuel subsidy, and the planned payment of relief grants. He added, “The Federal Government, through the Presidential Panel, has directed that households on the national register must be updated, especially with their NIN and locations.”

 Tinubu’s plane landed at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja, at 4:15 pm. He was welcomed by a delegation led by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. There was also a military honour for the president. Tinubu will join other West African leaders and dignitaries today to mark the 50-year existence of the regional bloc. In a statement, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said that as ECOWAS Chairman, Tinubu will highlight the bloc’s achievements at the event. While in Lagos, the president will also inaugurate several projects this weekend. These include Section I of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Lekki Deep Sea Port Tax Credit Concrete Road, the flag-off of Section II of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, and the 7th Axial Road. Tinubu will observe Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the State House, Dodan Barracks, before returning to Abuja.

 The Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, said this on Monday during a press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, as part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second-year report in his second term. Babatunde shared that the government demolished at least 349 unsafe buildings in the past year to protect lives and property. Earlier, the government announced plans to demolish buildings on Banana Island that were built without approval or in restricted areas, like near the shoreline or under power lines. This plan has raised concerns from residents and property owners on the island, who have asked the government to review the decision. Babatunde also mentioned that the Lagos State Building Control Agency, led at the time by Gbolahan Oki, had issued demolition notices and requested property owners to submit their building documents for review. He stated, “This action shows the government’s strong commitment to enforcing urban planning laws, protecting...

The Lagos State Government has set new working hours for construction sites across the state. From now on, building work is only allowed between 7 am and 6 pm, Monday to Saturday . This was announced on Thursday by Dr. Oluyinka Olumide , the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development. Dr. Olumide explained that this rule applies to everyone involved in building construction. Government agencies will be monitoring sites to make sure everyone follows the rule. However, if a company needs to work outside these hours, they can apply formally and their request will be considered. The main reasons for this new rule are to protect the environment, prevent building collapses, and promote the health and well-being of people living nearby. Residents are encouraged to report any construction sites that break this rule. And that's the new Lagos Standard. 

  In an age where digital ads flood our screens every second, it’s easy to assume that outdoor advertising is outdated. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. In 2025, out-of-home (OOH) advertising is not just surviving, it’s also thriving, and major brands are taking full advantage. It’s currently the year 2025 and honestly, even if it were 3025, there’s two things that definitely wouldn’t change in a metropolitan city like Lagos: pedestrians and billboards. It’s the one form of advertising so physical, so present, that it becomes part of the community.  From Lagos to Abuja, advertising agencies like FPL Media are placing top-tier billboards, wrapping buses, and lighting up cities with creative, physical ads that can’t be scrolled past or blocked. In Nigeria, where the streets are alive with movement and daily traffic, outdoor ads remain one of the most effective ways to be seen, remembered, and they create brand awareness that digital media could never dream to match...

  Dear Lagosians, The Lagos State Government has denied the circulating claim about an update to the Tenancy Law, stating it is false and did not come from any official source. In a statement shared with The PUNCH on Friday, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing, made it clear that the news was not true. She said, “The Lagos State Government has noticed a false online publication claiming that the Lagos State Tenancy Law has been updated to better protect tenants and regulate landlords. To be clear, the Lagos State Government wants to say that this information did not come from the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority. The public, especially Lagosians, should know that the Tenancy Law of 2015 is still in effect. However, a new Tenancy Law is being considered by the Lagos State House of Assembly, but it has not been passed yet.” Odunuga-Bakare also shared that the Ministry of Housing is actively working with stakeholders. ...

The Lagos State Government has started using drones to help monitor crime and improve emergency response across the state. This new programme was shared by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde , during the 2025 Annual Ministerial Press Briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja. Oyerinde explained that the drones will send live videos from crime hotspots to a new control room that uses modern technology to manage the information. He said that adding drone surveillance is a big step forward in the state’s plan to improve its security systems and make sure local areas are safer. “We now have drone technology working to map out crime areas, watch hotspots, and send real-time videos to our control room,” he said. “Our new control room, built with the latest technology, can handle live feeds from both drones and security cameras placed all over the state.” And That’s The Lagos Standard.

Dear Lagosians,   The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested 277 people across the state during a week-long operation focused on areas known for criminal activities. The operation was based on information gathered from residents and intelligence reports. In a statement released on Sunday , the Taskforce spokesperson, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem , said the operation was led by the Taskforce chairman, Adetayo Akerele . The team focused on locations with a history of illegal activities and makeshift settlements. Abdulraheem explained that the raids started each day around 1:30 a.m. , covering key areas on both the Island and Mainland . Some of the locations covered included Victoria Island, Osborne Road, Chevron area, Lekki Roundabouts, Obalende, Ikota, Ikoyi, Falomo Bridge, near the Law School, Eko Hotel, Oniru Beach , as well as railway tracks in Agege , Isale Oja in Ketu , and the AP Roundabout . Akerele said the operation was part of a larger effort to reclaim public spaces from...

  Dear Lagosians, A few months ago, you may have noticed that takeout food packs and some plastic items were banned in Lagos. This decision was made by the Lagos State Government in 2024 . If you’ve been wondering why this happened and how far the ban goes , here’s what you need to know: The Lagos State Government has explained that the ban on single-use plastics , starting July 1, 2025 , will NOT include plastic bottles (PET), water sachets, or nylon bags that are thicker than 40 microns . This clarification was made by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab , on Tuesday. He said there was confusion and misinformation suggesting the ban would cover all types of single-use plastics. Wahab confirmed that the enforcement of the ban will begin on July 1 , after an 18-month grace period which started in January 2024 . Speaking during a visit by Tetra Pak West Africa at his office in Alausa, Ikeja , Wahab explained that the ban was made to prot...

In the fast paced visual culture of Lagos, outdoor advertising remains one of the most powerful tools for brand visibility. Among the many players in the space, one company consistently rises above the rest, Four Pulley Limited, also known as FPL Media.  This billboard company in Lagos has quietly and confidently established itself as a leader in Nigeria’s out-of-home advertising landscape. From high-impact LED billboards along Lekki Expressway to eye-catching lamp pole ads that line major roads in Victoria Island and Ikoyi, FPL Media is everywhere and for good reason. They are the silent force behind some of the most mind-blowing billboard campaigns in Nigeria, with visuals so striking they often become landmarks in their own right. More than just a billboard company in Nigeria, Four Pulley Limited is a full-scale outdoor advertising agency, offering services that include large-format unipoles, LED digital displays, lamp pole branding, and more. Their strategic placement and aesth...