In a sweeping reform set to reshape the state’s property sector, the Lagos State Government has banned manual processing of building and planning permits, declaring that all approvals must now be obtained digitally.

The announcement, which was made by Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, warned that anyone bypassing the new system would be engaging in illegal activity.

The directive follows the full rollout of the Electronic Physical Planning Process System (EPPPS), a digital platform designed to handle planning approvals, construction authorisations, and stage certifications.

“This is the end of manual processing. Any attempt to operate outside the system is illegal,” Babatunde declared.

Babatunde said the reform will eliminate long-standing bottlenecks associated with manual processing, including missing files, endless queues, and delays.

Officials disclosed that all personnel have been fully trained, with computer systems and internet connectivity deployed across all planning districts, signalling readiness for the transition.

According to him, to enforce compliance, the state will deploy a monitoring task force to clamp down on illegal processing and ensure adherence to the new directive.

In a related move, Babatunde introduced the Certified Accredited Programme (CAP). With the initiative, private sector professionals will partner with regulators in monitoring construction projects.

He added that the initiative will strengthen compliance and help curb the persistent challenge of building collapse in the state.

The government also unveiled a new e-GIS regional office in Ikeja, aimed at bringing land services closer to residents and easing pressure on the Alausa secretariat.

The Special Adviser also announced a major efficiency boost. Mortgage consent processing has been reduced from 29 steps to just eight through a digital platform known as Moola Tracker. He explained that the reforms will significantly cut processing time and improve access to property financing.

Despite the sweeping changes, the SA maintained that no new charges have been introduced, retaining the existing 2.5 per cent statutory fee.

He then concluded by reading the riot act to developers and property owners, insisting that the era of backdoor dealings is over.

“We have provided the tools. There will be no more shortcuts,” he said.