The Lagos State Government has announced plans to automate the approval process for telecommunication infrastructure with the upcoming launch of the Telecommunication Infrastructure Regulatory System (TIRS) in February 2026. The initiative aims to streamline permit approvals for masts, towers, and fiber optic right-of-way, reducing manual processes and improving regulatory efficiency across the state.
The announcement came from Prince Oyekanmi Elegushi, General Manager of the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA). He emphasized that TIRS will enforce compliance with established safety and operational standards, ensuring all telecom projects meet regulatory requirements. Companies will now be able to submit applications online, reducing the need for physical visits and human interaction by up to 99%.
Preparations for TIRS are already underway, with LASIMRA completing comprehensive training for all its departments. Staff members have received both theoretical and practical instruction on the platform’s features, equipping them to manage permit applications efficiently and support telecom operators during the transition. Elegushi said the move reflects Lagos State’s commitment to digital governance, sustainable development, and a more investor-friendly environment.
The launch of TIRS comes after a series of regulatory actions by LASIMRA. In previous years, the agency decommissioned over 95 unsafe or non-compliant telecom masts and towers, with additional removals planned following structural investigations. These actions were part of LASIMRA’s “Zero Tolerance on Non-Compliant Mast and Towers” initiative, aimed at protecting public safety and enforcing proper urban planning.
Earlier in 2025, LASIMRA partnered with the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to carry out the Lagos City Mast and Tower Enumeration Project. The exercise created a comprehensive database of telecom infrastructure across Lagos, distinguishing between telecom-owned and other private or public towers, further strengthening the groundwork for a safer and more regulated telecom environment.
source: Nairametrics