The Cross River State government has embarked on a transformative journey to revolutionize land administration and enhance the ease of doing business within its borders. Governor Bassey Otu has spearheaded the full digitalization of the Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) issuance process, a move aimed at eradicating bureaucratic hurdles that have long hampered property owners and investors. This initiative, powered by Nugi Technologies Nigeria Ltd in collaboration with the Cross River State Land Cluster, promises a swift, transparent, and efficient system, marking a significant departure from the cumbersome analogue processes of the past. The governor’s commitment to his “People First” mantra is evident in this effort to streamline land administration and unlock economic opportunities for the people of Cross River State.
The digitalization of the C-of-O process signifies a paradigm shift in land administration, promising expedited timelines and enhanced transparency. What once took years to accomplish can now be achieved within a drastically reduced timeframe: 21 days for government land and 42 days for private land. This dramatic improvement underscores the government’s dedication to creating a more conducive environment for business and investment, eliminating the frustration and delays that previously characterized the process. The new system stands in stark contrast to the antiquated analogue systems of the past, which were plagued by inefficiencies and frequent errors. The digital platform streamlines every stage, from application to issuance, ensuring accuracy and accountability.
The benefits of this digital transformation extend beyond mere efficiency. The new system empowers property owners with legally recognized documentation, enabling access to financial institutions and unlocking economic opportunities previously inaccessible. For many in Cross River State, the lack of proper land documentation has been a significant barrier to economic participation, effectively marginalizing them from the formal financial sector. The streamlined C-of-O process removes this barrier, allowing property owners to leverage their assets and participate fully in the economy. This newfound access to financial services will undoubtedly stimulate economic growth and improve the livelihoods of countless individuals and businesses.
The digitalization of the C-of-O process is not just about speed and efficiency; it’s also about security and integrity. The incorporation of modern security features, such as QR codes, ensures the authenticity and verifiability of each certificate, making them tamper-proof and resistant to fraudulent activities. This enhanced security instills confidence in the system and protects property owners from potential scams and disputes. The move towards digitalization demonstrates Cross River State’s commitment to modernizing its systems and embracing technological advancements to improve governance and service delivery.
The unveiling of this groundbreaking initiative included the presentation of C-of-Os to several landlords and businesses, signifying a concrete realization of the government’s promise. Recipients, some of whom had waited years for their certificates under the old system, expressed their gratitude and hailed the initiative as a transformative step for Cross River State. The tangible benefits of this reform are immediately apparent, bringing relief and empowerment to those who have long awaited proper land documentation. This symbolic gesture underscored the real-world impact of the digital transformation and its potential to uplift the lives of ordinary citizens.
The digitalization of the C-of-O issuance process in Cross River State is a testament to the government’s commitment to creating a more business-friendly environment and empowering its citizens. This comprehensive overhaul of land administration not only streamlines procedures and reduces processing times but also enhances transparency, security, and accessibility. By removing the obstacles that previously hindered property owners and investors, the state is laying the foundation for economic growth and prosperity. This initiative signals a new era of efficiency and progress in Cross River State, demonstrating its readiness to embrace innovation and drive development. The successful implementation of this digital platform serves as a model for other states seeking to modernize their land administration systems and unlock the full economic potential of their land resources.
