Reported by: Ijeoma. G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Lagos State Government has engaged residents and stakeholders in Surulere on the proposed plan to establish a cemetery along Babs Animashaun Street, as part of efforts to improve urban planning and address the shortage of designated burial spaces in the area.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, while speaking at the stakeholders’ forum held at Eko Club, Surulere, on Tuesday, stressed the importance of inclusive consultation in the government’s decision-making process.
He explained that the project aims to meet the increasing demand for burial spaces within Lagos, especially in Surulere, which currently lacks an official cemetery. According to him, the initiative aligns with the State’s goal of equitable distribution of essential facilities, including healthcare and public infrastructure, across all local governments.
Dr. Olumide noted that establishing the cemetery within the informal space on Babs Animashaun Street is a practical solution given Lagos’ population density and limited land availability, adding that it follows international best practices in urban development.
“Lagos is expanding rapidly within a fixed land area, and this calls for creativity and collective action to meet our planning needs,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Oluwole Sotire, explained that the meeting was meant to foster understanding and address community concerns such as safety, environmental impact, and security.
He disclosed that Legacy Gardens, the project’s proponents, had revised their initial proposal to include modern features like street lighting, 24-hour CCTV surveillance, effective drainage, and a 20-metre setback from nearby buildings to ensure safety and hygiene.
During the presentation, Project Manager, Mr. Olumide Amure, outlined the design and sustainability features of the project, while Tpl. Risikat Bello and Tpl. Sulaiman Raheem presented the ministry’s technical review.
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed mixed opinions—some welcomed the idea as a necessary infrastructure upgrade, while others raised concerns over environmental and social implications.
The government announced that another stakeholders’ session will be held soon to continue discussions and gather additional feedback before implementation.
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