Lagos State Government has announced plans to fully automate the approval process for telecommunication infrastructure through a new digital platform known as the Telecommunication Infrastructure Regulatory System (TIRS), set to launch in February 2026.
The announcement was made in a statement by Prince Oyekanmi Elegushi, General Manager of the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA). According to him, the TIRS platform will ensure that all telecom infrastructure projects in Lagos, such as masts, towers, and right-of-way for fiber optic cables, comply with established regulations and standards.
Streamlined Permit Process for Telecom Operators
Elegushi explained that the TIRS system will enhance transparency and accountability in the permit approval process by minimizing human interaction by up to 99%. With the new system, companies will be able to apply for permits online, significantly reducing physical paperwork and visits to government offices.
He noted that the automation aligns with Lagos State’s digital governance agenda, improving efficiency and service delivery while creating an investor-friendly environment for telecom operators and infrastructure providers.
Preparations for Rollout
Ahead of the launch, LASIMRA has completed a comprehensive training programme for its staff across all departments to ensure a smooth transition once the system goes live. The training covered both theoretical and practical aspects of the platform, equipping personnel with a full understanding of its features and regulatory applications.
Elegushi reiterated LASIMRA’s commitment to building a sustainable and secure telecom environment through proactive regulation and the adoption of modern technology.
Strengthening Compliance and Safety
In previous years, LASIMRA decommissioned over 95 illegal or unsafe telecom masts and towers across the state, with 20 more identified for removal after investigations linked unsafe installations to structural failures, including a fatal building collapse on Massey Street, Lagos Island.
This effort was part of the agency’s “Zero Tolerance on Non-Compliant Mast and Towers” initiative, designed to improve public safety and ensure proper urban development.
Earlier in 2025, LASIMRA also partnered with the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to launch the Lagos City Mast and Tower Enumeration Project. The exercise aims to create a comprehensive database of all communication masts and towers in the state, enhancing regulatory oversight and distinguishing telecom-owned infrastructure from those of broadcasters, banks, and government agencies.
Lagos’ Push for Digital Transformation
The introduction of TIRS marks a significant step in Lagos State’s broader digital transformation strategy, showcasing its commitment to governance automation, investor confidence, and sustainable urban development.
