President Bola Tinubu has declared an uncompromising stance against illegal constructions on Nigeria’s setback zones and the rising menace of unauthorized island developments. This bold move aims to safeguard Nigeria’s coastal and urban landscapes from unchecked environmental degradation and unregulated urban sprawl.
Following mounting concerns over reckless land reclamation and unlawful building activities along Nigeria’s waterfronts, the President emphasized that such illicit projects threaten public safety, disrupt ecosystems, and undermine sustainable urban planning. Tinubu’s directive marks a critical effort to enforce existing laws and uphold national zoning regulations.
Official data from the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Commission highlights a surge in illegal encroachments within setback areas, especially in Lagos and Rivers states, where illegal island formations have altered coastal geography and impacted maritime activities. The government insists that no further tolerance will be extended to these violations.
During a policy briefing held on June 4, 2025, President Tinubu underscored that relevant agencies must collaborate rigorously to detect, halt, and dismantle all unauthorized developments immediately. “Nigeria’s environment and future urban growth depend on strict compliance. We will prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law,” he stated firmly.
This crackdown aligns with ongoing national efforts to strengthen environmental protection frameworks and support climate resilience initiatives. Urban planners and environmentalists have welcomed the President’s call, noting it as a pivotal step to reverse years of neglect and enforce accountability.
Beyond legal enforcement, the administration is launching public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the dangers of illegal constructions in setback zones, including flood risks, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. Partnerships with local governments are expected to intensify monitoring and regulatory enforcement on the ground.
Nigeria’s fight against illegal land development now enters a new chapter under Tinubu’s leadership—one that promises decisive action and transformative urban governance. Citizens and stakeholders alike watch closely as the government mobilizes resources to restore order and protect the nation’s environment for future generations.
