The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, is taking decisive steps to prevent building collapses and improve land management across the state. This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Akin-Funmilayo, during the Omituntun 2.0 Inter-Ministerial Briefing held in Ibadan.
Strengthening Building Regulations to Save Lives
Speaking to journalists, Mr. Akin-Funmilayo reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to tighten enforcement of building codes and regulations across Oyo State. He urged developers, builders, and homeowners to secure proper approvals before beginning construction to avoid tragedies linked to building collapses.
“We are committed to protecting lives and property in Oyo State. No life should be lost due to preventable building failures. We will enforce the law and ensure strict compliance,” he declared.
Digital Transformation of Land Administration
In line with its modernization agenda, the Ministry has introduced several digital innovations, including:
- Electronic allocation letters
- Online plot selection and land allocation via www.lands.oyostate.gov.ng
- A building permit amnesty programme
- A fully operational online building permit platform
These innovations have not only improved efficiency and transparency but have also boosted internally generated revenue (IGR).
“We have issued 17,046 digital title documents since 2019, with over 4,570 issued in 2024 alone—the highest in a single year,” the Commissioner noted.
Focus on House Numbering and Full Digitisation
Looking ahead, the Ministry is set to embark on a statewide house numbering campaign. It is also pursuing the digitisation and archiving of all physical planning documents to enhance service delivery and streamline operations.
One key reform in progress is the administrative independence of the Physical Planning Department, which is expected to become a fully autonomous division within the Ministry.
Public-Private Partnerships Fuel GRA Expansion
Akin-Funmilayo revealed that 15 Government Reserved Areas (GRAs) have been developed through public-private partnerships. These include:
- Engr. Lere Adigun GRA (completed)
- Senator Rashidi Ladoja GRA
- Senator Abiola Ajimobi GRA
- Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala GRA
- Chief Michael Koleosho GRA
- Baywood Gardens
- Tonabim Estate
- Oyo GRA
- Ogbomoso GRA, and others
He also disclosed that premium locations like Alalubosa, Aerodrome, and Agodi Gardens GRAs will soon be available for sale.
Revenue Growth and Economic Impact
Oyo’s land reform initiatives have yielded impressive financial results. The Ministry generated:
- ₦4.8 billion in 2023
- ₦6.1 billion in 2024
- ₦3.2 billion as of May 15, 2025
This growth is credited to Governor Makinde’s visionary leadership and the Ministry’s digital systems that have widened the state’s tax net. The Oyo State Property Reference System has also improved property identification and tax collection.
“Between January and May 2025, we recorded a ₦500 million increase in revenue compared to the same period in 2024,” Akin-Funmilayo highlighted.
Innovations and Staff Expansion
To support these reforms, the Ministry has:
- Digitised property records in the Deeds Registry
- Procured Real Time Kinematic (RTK) digital surveying equipment for accuracy in land mapping
- Recruited 77 new staff to improve service delivery
- Enacted a new Land Use Charge Law
- Paid ₦935.8 million in compensation for properties affected by major infrastructure projects, including:
- Circular Road (East Wing): ₦260 million
- Ajia Junction Interchange: ₦139 million
- Ogbomoso/Iseyin Road Weighbridge: ₦23.8 million
- Air Force Base, Ajia: ₦513 million
Balancing Development with Affordability
Despite rising land values in GRAs due to infrastructure development, the Commissioner assured that the Makinde administration remains committed to delivering affordable housing for middle- and low-income earners before the end of its tenure.
Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Urban Development
Oyo State’s Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development is setting a benchmark in sustainable urban planning through digitisation, transparency, and enforcement. By focusing on safety, affordability, and innovation, the state aims to prevent tragedies while unlocking the economic potential of real estate.
For more updates on land development and property regulations in Oyo State, visit www.lands.oyostate.gov.ng.
