The Lagos State Government has restricted construction activities across the state to the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays.

This was announced on Thursday in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Mukaila Sanusi, on behalf of the Commissioner, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide.

Olumide stated that the decision was aimed at protecting the environment, reducing the risk of building collapse, and promoting the overall well-being of residents.

“This restriction must be strictly observed by all stakeholders in the construction sector,” he said. “It is in the public interest and will be enforced by relevant government agencies.”

He acknowledged the complex nature of building projects but emphasised that any request for extended working hours must be formally submitted and would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

“Concessions may be granted, but only after proper due diligence and assessment,” he added.

The commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any construction activities that breach the new directive.

“We encourage members of the public to take ownership of their environment. If you observe construction work taking place outside the approved hours, please report it to the appropriate authorities,” he said.

A construction worker at a site in the Agodo-Egbe area of Alimosho Local Government Area, who identified himself as Musa Tola, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that while the directive might affect project timelines, it was a welcome development.

“Sometimes we work overnight to meet deadlines, but safety is important. If the government is serious about this, we will have to adjust,” Tola said.

Similarly, Mrs. Ifeoma Uche, a resident of Idimu, described the move as timely.

“Some sites operate throughout the night, and the noise disturbs everyone. I think this will restore some sanity,” she said.

Lagos has recorded several building collapses in recent years, prompting increased regulatory scrutiny of the construction sector. The state government said enforcement of the new working hours takes immediate effect.