By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has launched the Electronic Physical Planning Process System (EPPPS), a fully digital platform designed to tackle racketeering, corruption, and other challenges in land administration across the state.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who officially unveiled the system on Friday, described the initiative as a major leap forward in managing land use, development, and urban growth in Africa’s largest megacity.
Developed by the state government in partnership with technical experts, the platform aims to digitize land administration, mapping, and data management.
“Our city has grown incredibly fast. With more people, more businesses, and more activities every day, it is clear that we need a smarter way to plan and manage our city. The old paper-based systems can no longer keep up with the speed, scale, and transparency that a 21st-century megacity demands,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor noted that the new platform aligns with the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, particularly under Technology and Innovation, strengthening the state’s push toward a modern, efficient public service.
“Through EPPPS, citizens, developers, and professionals in the built environment can now submit planning applications, upload building designs, and monitor application progress online from any location. The system is expected to improve transparency, reduce delays, minimize human interference, and curb corruption within the planning process,” he added.
According to him, the platform will also provide accurate data to support urban management, infrastructure planning, and environmental monitoring, ensuring that developments comply with Lagos’ master plan and safety standards.
“For citizens, this innovation means less stress, shorter queues, and faster approvals. It brings fairness and confidence, knowing that every application is treated on merit and every development meets environmental and safety requirements. This is how technology brings the government closer to the people,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, said the initiative will add significant value to land administration and management in the state.
“This is the future of Lagos. This is where we want to be. Beyond blocking loopholes and preventing the loss of government revenue caused by human interference, the system also reduces processing time,” he stated.
“And above all, it curbs corruption—from both government officials and members of the public. The systems are incorruptible because they provide real-time, verifiable information that cannot easily be manipulated,” he added.
