Ogun Unveils New Planning Regulations, Introduces First State Building Code

Popoola Jamiu, Abeokuta

The Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has announced the rollout of new planning regulations alongside the state’s first-ever Building and Construction Code, marking a significant step in efforts to promote safer and more sustainable urban development.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Olatunji Odunlami, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ engagement held in Abeokuta, where government officials briefed the public on the new policy direction.

Odunlami described the approval of the Ogun State Building and Construction Code 2025 as a major milestone, noting that it represents the first time a Nigerian state has adopted a building code derived from the national framework.

He explained that the new regulations are designed to strengthen planning processes and ensure orderly, safe, and environmentally sustainable development across the state.

According to the commissioner, the reforms build on a broader restructuring of the ministry over the past seven years, which saw its transition into a system of three specialised agencies overseeing physical planning and development. The restructuring was backed by legislation, including the Ogun State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law 2022 and a set of regulations covering planning permits, slum regeneration, building production management, outdoor infrastructure, and land subdivision.

Odunlami said the updated 2025 regulations, together with the new building code, position Ogun as a frontrunner in planning reforms, particularly in response to rapid urbanisation and economic expansion within the state.

He attributed the pace of development to policies introduced under Governor Dapo Abiodun, which he said have helped attract investment, improve infrastructure, and boost the ease of doing business.

The commissioner stressed that compliance with the new framework is mandatory for all stakeholders, including property owners, developers, and construction professionals.

As part of implementation efforts, he announced the introduction of an electronic planning platform to be piloted in six zones, allowing residents to process planning permits online and improving service delivery.

Odunlami also raised concerns over the increasing encroachment on road setbacks, warning that illegal structures along highways and major roads pose risks to public safety and urban order.

He cautioned that the government would enforce strict compliance going forward, urging affected property owners to remove unauthorised developments or face penalties, including demolition and prosecution.

The reforms are part of Ogun State’s broader strategy to strengthen urban governance and align its development framework with modern planning standards.