The Oyo State government has rolled out a 60-day Online Building Permit Amnesty (OYBPA) program aimed at regularizing buildings constructed without proper government approval and addressing violations of building regulations. The program officially commenced on August 26, 2024, and will run until October 27, 2024.
The Commissioner for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Mr. Williams Akin-Funmilayo, made this announcement in Ibadan, stating that the initiative aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s transformation and sustainable development agenda. The program is designed to improve urban planning, enhance safety, and offer property owners an opportunity to obtain building permits at a discounted rate.
He emphasized that property owners can now regularize their permits during the amnesty period with a 20% discount. “This initiative allows property owners in Oyo State to get their building permits faster, easier, and cheaper, as the government plans to embark on strict enforcement after the amnesty period,” he noted.
The amnesty applies to all property types, including residential, commercial, industrial, educational, and health facilities, allowing property owners who have no building permits or those with unauthorized developments to regularize their status. The program is primarily conducted online to prevent exploitation by touts and middlemen.
Mr. Akin-Funmilayo further stated that the initiative guarantees authentic permits that will safeguard property owners from further government interference, provided they adhere to the approval guidelines. He advised property owners to take advantage of the 60-day window to avoid penalties when enforcement begins.
However, the commissioner highlighted that properties in certain restricted areas—such as government acquisition zones, power line zones, or locations too close to dams and streams—will not be eligible for amnesty. Properties built on roads, within pipeline setbacks, or under legal disputes will also be exempt.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Mofoluke Adebiyi, added that the scheme will help update the state’s property database, contributing to improved security across all local governments. She encouraged those with unauthorized buildings to participate in the program, noting that even those outside the state can apply online.
The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including architects, engineers, surveyors, town planners, and other professionals, signaling the government’s commitment to streamlining the process and supporting sustainable development in Oyo State.
