By JKNewsMedia
CONCERNS RAISED within Lagos State’s outdoor advertising sector about possible arbitrary enforcement have prompted a response from the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA), which reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, professionalism, and sustainable industry growth.
The Agency emphasised that its regulatory mandate is rooted in dialogue, transparency, and collaboration with stakeholders.
Managing Director of LASAA, Prince Fatiu Akiolu, stated that suspicions of a return to heavy-handed practices are unfounded, pointing to a history of engagement with stakeholders.
He explained that the Agency frequently convenes industry fora, maintains cordial relations with operators, and offers concessions such as discounts on vacant billboard charges.
He further noted that stakeholders’ input is sought before major policy decisions are taken.
Prince Akiolu clarified that LASAA does not engage in direct commercial competition with private operators.
According to him, the Agency manages a limited number of state-approved advertising structures primarily used to amplify government programmes, regulatory oversight, and public awareness campaigns.
He stressed that LASAA’s core mandate remains the enforcement of orderliness, public safety, and environmental aesthetics in Lagos.
On licensing, the MD explained that criteria remain stringent to ensure only qualified practitioners operate in the outdoor advertising space.
Addressing concerns about billboard oversupply, particularly around military and police formations where illegal structures are common, he disclosed that LASAA placed a moratorium on new registrations and permits earlier in 2025.
He said the measure was designed to uphold industry integrity and raise professional standards.
Prince Akiolu further highlighted that LASAA’s Health and Safety team actively inspects installations to confirm they meet engineering and safety requirements, thereby reducing risks to life and property.
He underlined that the Agency’s regulatory approach is preventive rather than punitive, relying on monitoring, early warnings, and corrective measures, with enforcement only applied when unavoidable.
While acknowledging continuing challenges such as spacing violations, setbacks, and structural irregularities, Akiolu attributed these issues largely to operator non-compliance rather than regulatory excesses.
He urged industry associations, particularly the Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN), along with licensed practitioners, to strengthen self-regulation and cooperate in reporting violations to enhance urban safety, aesthetics, and economic vibrancy.
To restore order and safeguard public interests, LASAA has launched an enforcement and cleanup operation targeting illegal advertising installations across Lagos.
Akiolu also stressed the importance of outdoor advertising in shaping the city’s visual identity and called for responsible industry practices to prevent disorder.
He reiterated that the Agency’s framework balances oversight with industry sustainability, creating a transparent environment that protects investments and enhances the city’s appeal.
LASSA MD reassured both the public and practitioners that LASAA’s mandate is not intended to stifle industry growth or penalise compliant operators but to guarantee a fair and regulated system that promotes safety, professionalism, and long-term viability.
Lastly, Akiolu reaffirmed LASAA’s dedication to nurturing an outdoor advertising sector that protects investments, safeguards the public, and enhances the beauty of Lagos.
