The Lagos State Informal Space Management Authority (LASISMA) and the Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have commenced discussions on strengthening collaboration to curb illegal encroachment and improve the management of informal urban spaces within the council area.
The LASISMA leadership paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, Hon. Bola Oladunjoye, on Friday, with discussions centred on the theme, “Strengthening Collaboration for Effective Informal Space Management and Sustainable Urban Development.”
Leading the LASISMA delegation, the General Manager, TPL Daisi Oso, outlined the Authority’s statutory mandate and identified key areas for collaboration, including the management and protection of setbacks, incidental open spaces, walkways and public institutions’ rights-of-way.
Oso said effective management of informal urban spaces required stronger coordination among government agencies and local communities. He called for the LCDA’s support in stakeholder sensitisation, data collection, documentation, enforcement and compliance with physical planning regulations.
He also stressed the need to prevent setbacks and other public spaces from becoming hideouts for criminal elements, while curbing unauthorised activities and encroachment that could threaten public safety, physical orderliness and the aesthetics of the environment.
The LASISMA General Manager further emphasised the importance of implementing relevant physical planning policies and exploring opportunities for revenue optimisation through the proper regulation and management of informal spaces.
Responding, Oladunjoye welcomed the LASISMA delegation and commended the presentation by the Authority. He described the initiative as multidimensional, noting that it covered important aspects of public space management, including the designation of car parks, children’s playgrounds, garages and other facilities.
The Council Chairman expressed the LCDA’s readiness to work with LASISMA to promote peaceful coexistence among residents and businesses. He also assured the Authority of the Council’s support in enforcement activities when necessary.
Both organisations identified practical areas of cooperation aimed at safeguarding informal urban spaces and incidental open spaces while promoting sustainable physical development within Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA.
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, improve compliance with physical planning regulations and promote safe, orderly and sustainable urban development across Ikoyi-Obalende and Lagos State.
