Sequel to the devolution of Planning Permit Approval Powers to District Officers of the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), the Lagos State Government has secured commitments for ethical and professional conduct from 30 District Officers saddled with the delegated approval powers.
Speaking during the meeting with District Officers on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Idris Salako stated that as part of the reforms to ease the Planning Permit Approval process, district officers were granted some levels of Planning Permit Approval powers and, therefore, directed to give an undertaking on ethical and professional conduct.
The Commissioner said that for the public to have good perceptions of the crucial reforms pivotal to the ideals of Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy, it is essential that officers interfacing with the people and acting on behalf of the government live up to expectations.
He said that given the sensitivity of their roles, the State Government has secured the commitment of the District Officers to comply with their approval limits, display a high level of competence and integrity as well as carry out their assigned duties with professionalism and diligence.
“We are confident that the District Officers, who are now the face of the State Government will make good use of this opportunity and change the narratives to justify our commitment to a livable, orderly and sustainable physical environment”, he said.
Dr. Salako urged the 30 District Officers to handle their assignments with the honesty and seriousness it deserved, bearing in mind the implications of not doing so or getting it wrong.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, Mr. Ganiyu Adele Ayuba, urged the officers to be on top of their game and justify the confidence reposed in them to grant approvals, adding that they have no option than to succeed as they are the mirror through which the public perceives the Government.
The Permanent Secretary, Arc. Foluso Dipe, also charged the LASPPPA District Officers to note that the speed of approval is important towards achieving the 28-day target for processing Planning Permits in the State.
On his part, the General Manager of LASPPPA, Tpl. Funmi Oshifuye enjoined all the District Officers to be above board as anyone found wanting will face disciplinary action.
MS/TMS/OS
