The Lagos State government has announced a restriction on construction activities to the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays, as part of new measures to improve safety and reduce disruptions in residential areas.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, disclosed the directive in a statement released Thursday by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Mukaila Sanusi.
Olumide said the policy aims to safeguard the environment, prevent building collapses, and promote the general well-being of residents.
“This restriction must be strictly adhered to by all stakeholders in the construction sector. It is in the public interest and will be enforced by relevant government agencies,” the commissioner stated.
While acknowledging that construction timelines vary, Olumide noted that requests to work outside the approved hours must be made formally and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
“Concessions may be granted but only after due diligence and evaluation,” he added.
The government also called on Lagosians to help monitor compliance.
“We encourage the public to take ownership of their environment. If you observe construction activities going on outside the approved hours, please report them to the appropriate authorities,” Olumide urged.
Reactions to the policy have been mixed among workers and residents.
A construction worker in the Agodo-Egbe area of Alimosho Local Government, Musa Tola, told NAN that while the move could impact project deadlines, it prioritises safety.
“Sometimes we work overnight to meet deadlines, but safety is important. If the government is serious about this, we will have to adjust,” he said.
A resident of Idimu, Mrs. Ifeoma Uche, welcomed the policy.
“Some sites work all night and the noise disturbs everyone. I think this will bring some sanity,” she said.
Lagos has recorded multiple building collapses in recent years, prompting stricter enforcement of construction regulations. Authorities say enforcement of the new working-hour directive will commence immediately.
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