Enugu Gov’t Grants 90-Day Amnesty For Buildings Without Approval
Naija News • 3h ago
**Enugu Gov't Gives Property Owners a Chance to Get Their Houses in Order**
In a move aimed at promoting structured urban development in Enugu, the state government has launched a 90-day window of opportunity for property owners without approved building plans to regularise their properties. This initiative, which kicked off on February 27, 2026, is a major step towards enforcing regulatory compliance and sanitising the built environment across the state.
**A Chance to Correct Past Mistakes**
The amnesty, which is being implemented in collaboration with relevant planning authorities, offers property owners a chance to obtain proper approvals and avoid future sanctions. Under the initiative, owners of existing buildings without approved plans are required to submit as-built drawings for approval through the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS). Those without existing drawings have been advised to engage certified architects to prepare as-built plans reflecting the current state of their structures and submit them within the amnesty period.
**A Fresh Start for Enugu's Built Environment**
The ENGIS Managing Director, Chiwetalu Nwatu, described the amnesty as a corrective and forward-looking intervention. "This window is not punitive; it is an opportunity for property owners to come into compliance without penalties while helping the state build a more organised and secure urban environment," he said. Nwatu added that the move aligns with the state's broader land administration reforms, which aim to protect genuine property owners and ensure Enugu grows in a planned and sustainable manner.
**A Warning to Property Owners**
While the amnesty offers a chance to correct past mistakes, the ENGIS has also issued a strong advisory on mandatory compliance going forward. The agency stressed that no building plan approval will henceforth be granted without a registered land title, noting that acceptable documents include a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or a registered Deed of Assignment. The ENGIS also warned that no construction should commence without both a valid land title and an approved building plan issued by the appropriate authority.
**The Way Forward**
The Enugu State Government's initiative is a major step towards promoting orderly physical development in the state. As the amnesty period comes to an end, property owners are advised to take advantage of this opportunity to regularise their properties and avoid future sanctions. With the ENGIS's commitment to enforcing regulatory compliance, Enugu's built environment is set to become more organised, secure, and sustainable.