🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Lagos Ministry of Housing clarifies solar panel approval for government estates
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Lagos State Ministry of Housing has reiterated that residents of government-owned housing estates must obtain official approval before installing solar panels or making any external alterations to their units. This clarification follows a viral video showing ministry officials confronting a resident at the Lagos State Millennium Housing Estate, Ibeshe, over an unapproved solar panel installation. Abdulhafis Toriola, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, stated that the approval requirement is detailed in the Letter of Allocation and Allottees Guide. He explained that government estates are social housing schemes with shared infrastructure, and these guidelines protect other flat owners, ensure building insurance, and allocate roof space fairly. Toriola noted that the policy was implemented due to structural and safety problems, including leaking rooftops and fire outbreaks, caused by unapproved solar panel installations. The Ministry emphasized that these regulations stipulate guidelines for installation, material quality, and personnel expertise to minimize risks to the entire building structure. The Ministry clarified that this policy does not apply to private property owners in Lagos. The viral video, posted around April 21, 2026, showed a resident expressing frustration over the permit requirement, leading to widespread criticism from viewers who mistakenly believed the policy applied to all Lagos residents. The Ministry urged allottees to comply with the approval
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