President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to state governors, stating that any planning approvals already granted for illegal setbacks along federal highways will be revoked by the Federal Government.
The President made this declaration on Thursday during the official inauguration of the access road to the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
His remarks follow a similar warning issued days earlier during the commissioning of Phase 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, where he cautioned developers against constructing structures on designated setback areas.
Reinforcing his position at Thursday’s event, which was attended by several state governors, Tinubu expressed serious concerns about unauthorized developments along federal routes.
“I am glad the Deputy Governor of Lagos is here. Take it that we will revoke all those approvals, even those already given for setbacks.
“Please note that we are very serious about this. No more planning approval for those unapproved islands being created illegally,” Tinubu said.
Setbacks refer to the minimum distance a building must be from a road or property line, typically ranging from three to nine metres. These regulations are crucial for infrastructure development and future road expansions.
Tinubu also urged state governors to work in close collaboration with federal agencies before granting planning approvals.
He specifically called for coordination with the Surveyor General of the Federation and the Ministry of Works.
“I have directed the Honourable Minister of Works to work with the Surveyor General and all state governors on these legacy project route bypasses.
“We need to procure reasonable setbacks for land, future expansion, infrastructure development, and to improve road architecture and return on investment,” the president added.
Speaking further,the president said, “Please, our dear governors, let’s work together. Don’t give planning approvals without collaborating with the Surveyor General of the Federation and the Ministry of Works, I appeal to you.”
Governors present at the event included those of Kaduna, Abia, Enugu, Borno, and the Deputy Governor of Lagos State.