Tinubu Warns Developers: No Structures on Coastal Road Setbacks — Violations Will Be Demolished Without Compensation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern warning to developers and property owners, declaring that the Federal Government will strictly enforce the setback regulations along the newly constructed Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

Speaking on Saturday during the commissioning of the first 30 kilometres of the highway in Lekki, Lagos, Tinubu said any unauthorized structures built on the designated setbacks will be demolished—without compensation.

“Let me, at this stage, warn all developers. The Federal Government will enforce the setbacks. If not for anything, it is for the interest of our nation,” Tinubu stated.

In urban planning, setbacks refer to the minimum distance a structure must be from a road or property line—usually ranging from 3 to 9 metres. In Lagos State, the enforcement is overseen by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) and the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) to ensure orderly development, safety, and environmental compliance.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to due process and national development, the President added:

“Development without approval will not be compensated. We have gazetted and published the setbacks. We are going to enforce it rigidly in every way possible.”

Tinubu also urged citizens to take collective responsibility in preserving the newly built infrastructure.

“The government can build roads, but we must maintain them. Motorists and residents are encouraged to use this infrastructure responsibly.”

The commissioning event was attended by key dignitaries including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, Finance Minister Wale Edun, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, and several second-term governors such as Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).