By Olakunle Oke
The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has issued a seven-day stop-work notice to individuals and developers engaged in unauthorised and illegal construction activities within its estates across the country.
In a press release issued on Thursday, the Authority said it had observed with concern that some persons were still carrying out developments in FHA estates without approval, despite earlier directives prohibiting such actions.
According to the FHA, these developments are often executed without the required approvals and professional supervision, in clear violation of its development control guidelines and established building standards.
The Authority stated that it has consistently frowned at the practice, stressing that it had previously warned against unauthorised construction through radio announcements and newspaper publications nationwide.
Reaffirming its commitment to safety, the FHA said it would not fold its arms and allow unprofessional activities to continue in its estates, noting that as a professional housing delivery agency, it prioritises structural safety through proper supervision from project inception to completion.
The Authority explained that strict adherence to professional standards has helped reduce incidents of building collapse within its estates, thereby saving lives and property.
Consequently, the FHA announced a seven-day stop-work order effective from January 29, 2026, directing all persons involved in unauthorised developments to immediately halt construction activities.
It said the grace period is intended to allow affected developers and individuals to obtain the necessary approvals and building permits from the Authority or regularise existing ones that may have expired.
The FHA warned that upon the expiration of the notice, maximum sanctions would be applied to all defaulters who fail to comply with the directive.
