Lagos Relocates Major Timber Market
The Lagos State Government has officially relocated the Okobaba Plank Market from Ebute Meta to a modern facility named Timberville in Agbowa, Epe.
As part of the move, the government also provided 260 units of two-bedroom flats to accommodate the traders and their families.
This was disclosed on Monday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held in Alausa, Ikeja.
The briefing was part of activities marking Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second year in his second term.
Babatunde explained that the relocation was not just about moving a market but enhancing urban infrastructure while ensuring the well-being of citizens.
“We have not only relocated the traders from Okobaba to Timberville in Agbowa, but we have also ensured their comfort by providing 260 units of two-bedroom flats,” he said.
In addition to the relocation, Babatunde revealed that 21 other markets across the state are undergoing various phases of redevelopment, including Computer Village, Katangowa, Abule Egba, and Jankara Gorodome.
These projects fall under the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), which is implementing a broad market revitalisation plan.
“Our target is to reduce slum areas by half every year through infrastructure renewal and proper urban planning,” he added.
According to him, LASURA also aims to cut slum settlements by 50 per cent annually through improved infrastructure and urban planning.
The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has also made significant strides. Over the past year, 140 professionals have been certified as Accreditors to screen construction drawings and monitor compliance.
Babatunde revealed that LASBCA detected 8,663 building infractions in the past year and issued 1,136 construction commencement authorisations.
To support safer building practices, the agency is enforcing stricter monitoring and encouraging sustainable housing.
“We now have 140 certified accreditors on ground to ensure only safe and compliant structures are approved in Lagos,” he said.
Furthermore, Babatunde said efforts are underway to regenerate slum communities like Ipodo through inclusive, community-focused plans.
A 30 per cent rebate is also being offered to individuals interested in constructing eco-friendly homes, signaling a new push toward green urban development.
Lagos Relocates Major Timber Market is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
