The Lagos State Government has officially unveiled the Electronic Physical Planning Process System (E-PPPS), a digital platform designed to streamline building permit applications and approvals while enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the physical planning sector.
The initiative, introduced by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), was presented to professionals and stakeholders in the built environment during a sensitisation programme aimed at familiarising users with the operations and benefits of the new system.
The E-PPPS represents a major technological advancement in Lagos State’s urban planning framework, enabling applicants to submit planning permit requests electronically, track applications in real time, and access approval services more efficiently.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, described the initiative as a landmark reform that signals Lagos State’s transition from paper-based approval processes to a fully digital planning permit system.
“This reform replaces bulky paper submissions of architectural and structural drawings with secure digital uploads, positioning Lagos as a leader in development modernisation across Nigeria,” he said.
Olumide explained that the platform was designed to be user-friendly and accessible while ensuring strict compliance with statutory requirements, including tax clearance and payment assessments.
He stressed that architects, engineers, builders, surveyors, town planners, and other industry professionals remain key partners in the successful implementation of physical planning regulations and policies across the state.
According to the commissioner, the E-PPPS aligns with the broader vision of the Lagos State Government to build a more responsive, transparent, and efficient planning permit system capable of supporting the demands of a rapidly expanding megacity.
He further disclosed that the state would soon discontinue the manual building approval process, citing its cumbersome nature, excessive paperwork, and prolonged processing timelines resulting from multiple human interactions.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Wasiu Olayinka, noted that the digital platform would address longstanding complaints from developers and stakeholders by providing a clear, transparent process with real-time application updates.
He said participants were introduced to the platform’s operational procedures, compliance requirements, and key features, while also being given the opportunity to provide feedback and recommendations to improve the system’s effectiveness.
Olayinka encouraged all stakeholders within the built environment to embrace the digital transition and take advantage of the training sessions designed to facilitate a smooth adoption process.
Industry stakeholders welcomed the initiative, describing it as a transformative step for urban development and regulatory administration in Lagos State.
Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Lagos Chapter, Omotayo Awomosu, described the E-PPPS as a game-changing innovation capable of shaping future digital planning practices and advancing smart city development in Lagos.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Lagos Chapter, Tosin Kadiri, said the platform would improve efficiency, transparency, and sustainable urban development, pledging the association’s support for its successful implementation.
However, the Ologba of Oba and practising surveyor, Oba Egbeyemi Lateef, urged the state government to adopt a gradual transition strategy. He recommended that the electronic and manual approval systems operate concurrently for a period to allow stakeholders sufficient time to adapt while lessons are drawn from the implementation process.
The E-PPPS is expected to significantly reduce approval delays, eliminate administrative bottlenecks, and improve the ease of doing business in Lagos, further reinforcing the state’s position as a leader in digital governance and urban development innovation.
