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The Lagos State Government recently announced a 94 meter Right of Way (RoW) for the Eti-Osa – Lekki-Epe Expressway, stretching 69.1km from Admiralty Toll Plaza to Epe Junction. This move is part of the state’s THEMES+ Agenda and aligns with the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning Law (2019) to facilitate infrastructure expansion, including a dual carriage way, rail tracks, pedestrian bridges, and drainage systems.
While this development promises long-term benefits like reduced traffic congestion and improved connectivity, it raises critical concerns for real estate investors and property owners in the affected areas. This article explores the implications of the Lagos State Right of Way enforcement on investors and what steps they should take next.
Key Implications for Property Investors
1. Risk of Property Demolition
The Lagos State Government has warned that unauthorized structures within the 94 meter RoW will face enforcement actions. Investors who own residential, commercial, or industrial properties along this corridor must verify if their land falls within the demarcated zone.
What’s at stake? Buildings, fences, and other developments within the RoW may be demolished without compensation if they lack proper approvals.
Who is most affected? Investors in high growth areas like Lekki, Ajah, Sangotedo, and Epe may be impacted if their properties encroach on the designated space.
2. Potential Loss of Investments
Many investors purchased land or developed properties in the Lekki-Epe corridor without anticipating future government infrastructure plans. Now, those with developments too close to the expressway may suffer financial losses due to:
- Forced relocations
- Devaluation of property near construction zones
- Delayed ROI due to uncertainty
3. Legal and Compliance Issues
The government’s announcement references the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning Law (2019), meaning:
- Properties without approved permits are at higher risk.
- Investors who bought land from unauthorized sellers may face legal battles if the land falls within the RoW.
Solution: Investors should conduct a land search with the Lagos State Bureau of Lands to confirm their property’s status.
What Should Investors Do Now?
1. Verify Property Alignment with the RoW
- Check the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development for official RoW demarcation maps.
- Hire a surveyor to confirm if your property falls within the 94 meter zone.
2. Seek Legal Redress (If Necessary)
- If your property was legally acquired with government approval, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Consult a real estate lawyer to explore options if the land was wrongly allocated.
3. Consider Alternative Investments
- If your property is at risk, explore relocation or selling before enforcement begins.
- Look into developments outside the RoW but still within the Lekki-Epe growth corridor.
Long-term Benefits for Investors
While the immediate impact may seem negative, the Lagos State infrastructure expansion will bring long-term advantages:
- Once completed, the expressway and rail projects will likely increase property values due to improved accessibility.
- Areas near interchanges and rail stations may experience higher appreciation.
Opportunities for Strategic Investors
Despite risks, the project presents opportunities:
- Land Banking: Investors can acquire properties outside the RoW but near future infrastructure nodes.
- Commercial Developments: Increased traffic flow will boost demand for retail spaces, hotels, and offices along the expressway.
- Affordable Housing: The government may incentivize developers to build relocation homes for displaced residents.
Conclusion
The Lagos State Government’s Right of Way declaration is a double-edged sword for investors. While it poses short-term risks like demolition and market slowdown, the long-term benefits—better infrastructure, increased connectivity, and higher property demand—could outweigh initial setbacks.
Smart investors should conduct due diligence, adapt strategies, and position themselves for future growth in Lagos’ most dynamic corridor.
