The Lagos State government says it is ready to collaborate with the Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association (BIPORAL) to improve the functionality of the estate.

The commissioner for physical planning and urban development,  Oluyinka Olumide, stated this when members of BIPORAL paid him a courtesy visit on Friday.

This is contained in a statement issued by Mukaila Sanusi, director, public affairs, ministry of physical planning and urban development, on Saturday in Lagos.

Mr Olumide said that it was necessary to review the layout of Banana Island to make it more efficient and sustainable.

He commended the association for reaching out to the government and identified areas for collaboration, including infrastructure, accessibility, building approval processes and the control of illegal extensions.

Speaking on accessibility, the commissioner noted that having only one entry and exit route posed a serious challenge that must be addressed urgently to improve safety and ease of movement.

The permanent secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Oluwole Sotire, described the planned collaboration as a welcome development that would help to restore the original vision of the estate and serve as a model for other communities.

Earlier, BIPORAL chairman, Abidemi Sonoiki, appealed for government’s support to sanitise and enhance the estate.

He assured that the residents were ready to cooperate fully with the state government.

(NAN)