By Seyi Odewale
The Lagos State Government has reiterated that residents in its housing estates must secure approval before making external alterations, including installing solar panels on buildings and flats.
The directive, issued by the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, is aimed at protecting shared infrastructure and reducing safety risks linked to unregulated modifications in government-owned estates.
The clarification was issued by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Engr. Abdulhafis Toriola, following complaints on social media over enforcement by the Ministry’s Monitoring and Compliance Team at the Lagos State Millennium Housing Estate, Ibeshe.
The statement was signed by Ganiu Lawal, Director, Public Affairs.
“An allottee must obtain approval from the Ministry for any intended alteration to the flat allocated and the building, and this includes installation of solar panels,” Toriola stated.
He explained that the requirement is embedded in official documents issued to beneficiaries at purchase. “This is clearly contained in the Letter of Allocation and the Allottees Guide,” he said.
Toriola noted that the policy is designed to protect shared assets such as rooftops, walls and water systems. He added that it also seeks to curb risks, particularly fire outbreaks caused by poorly installed solar systems.
“In recent times, the Ministry had to intervene in fixing leaking rooftops and addressing fire incidents linked to solar installations by some residents,” he said.
He further explained that government estates are built as interconnected housing units accommodating multiple families, making regulation critical.
“In order to minimise risk that will affect the entire building structure, the Ministry made regulations covering installation standards, material quality and the technical competence of installers,” he added.
The Permanent Secretary also pointed out that the guidelines help prevent disputes among residents over limited rooftop space and ensure adequate protection of buildings through insurance.
He assured residents that the Ministry remains open to feedback and continues to engage communities through regular sensitisation campaigns.
“Allottees are encouraged to seek clarification where necessary and comply with established procedures to ensure safety, structural integrity and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
