The Lagos State Government has dismissed reports that it has increased billboard permit fees to ₦700 million, describing the claim as false and misleading.
The government was reacting to a social media post alleging that the purported increase was responsible for the absence of National Democratic Congress (NDC) campaign materials on major roads in Lagos.
The post reportedly stated: “That is why you hardly see NDC on Lagos roads.”
However, in a statement issued on November 13, 2026, the Lagos State Government, through the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, described the allegation as fake news intended to tarnish the government’s image.
It clarified that billboards are owned and operated by private advertising companies, adding that the most expensive billboard space costs approximately ₦10 million monthly.
The government explained that the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) is a regulatory body and does not own or operate billboards or determine the commercial rates charged by billboard owners.
It further stated that individuals and organisations seeking to register as outdoor advertising practitioners in Lagos State are required to obtain a non-refundable registration form for ₦7 million, register with the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and fulfil other requirements stipulated by the agency.
According to the government, billboard advertisements, including political campaign materials, must be displayed on approved advertising structures operated by registered outdoor advertising practitioners with valid LASAA permits.
It added that such structures must comply with established regulations on location, structural safety and environmental standards.
The government also explained that statutory permit fees payable to LASAA are separate from the commercial costs of media placement, production and other advertising services provided by registered outdoor advertising practitioners.
It noted that regulatory charges applicable to billboard owners vary according to factors such as the size, format and location of advertising structures, with different rates applicable across designated zones.
As part of efforts to ensure compliance with the regulations, the agency recently conducted a public sensitisation exercise on election campaign advertising guidelines in Lagos State.
The exercise, according to the statement, was aimed at educating political parties, candidates, advertising practitioners and members of the public on the applicable regulatory requirements.
The government reiterated that LASAA’s responsibility is to regulate outdoor advertising, administer permits and ensure compliance with relevant laws.
It added that the agency would continue to ensure that all outdoor campaign materials comply with established regulations.
The statement further disclosed that LASAA would remove campaign materials after electioneering activities to restore the city’s visually appealing environment at no cost to the public.
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