The challenges surrounding the amendment of Nigeria’s Land Use Act (LUA), enacted in 1978, have been highlighted in recent discussions, particularly at the International Conference and Fair on Land and Development held in Lagos. Dr. Ugochukwu Chime, the Chairman of the Ministerial Land Reform Task Team, indicated that attempts to modify the LUA have repeatedly faltered due to apprehensions regarding its potential ramifications. He emphasized that the act is often perceived as a mechanism for land grabbing, which complicates the process of garnering support for any amendments. Dr. Chime advocated for improving operational issues at the 38 land administration agencies, coupled with enhancing the legal framework to facilitate swift resolution of land disputes. He contended that any reform initiatives concerning land must also involve the private sector, which plays a critical role in fostering economic development in Nigeria.
Echoing Dr. Chime’s sentiments, Toye Eniola, Executive Secretary of the Association of Housing Corporation of Nigeria, highlighted the governance structures established by the LUA that centralize power primarily in the hands of state governors. He explained that any amendments to the act necessitate cooperation from both the National Assembly and state-level Houses of Assembly, creating complex political dynamics. Eniola pointed out that the current system incentivizes governors to maintain control over land resources, as these assets represent a lucrative source of income for governments. This entrenched power structure results in hesitance to relinquish land authorities, further complicating the prospects for significant legislative change.
The perspective presented by these officials reveals a broader concern regarding the relationship between land governance, economic development, and the need for legislative reform in managing land resources. This stance is further elucidated by Prof. Timothy Nubi, Director of the Centre for Housing and Sustainable Development. He contextualizes Nigeria’s land issues within the larger framework of African and Asian urbanization, where rapid population growth has not translated into correspondingly high real estate values. The untapped potential for growth in African property markets, as identified by Prof. Nubi, stems from systemic bottlenecks that inhibit better utilization of land resources.
Prof. Nubi underscores that a significant proportion of real estate wealth across Africa remains classified as “dead capital”—assets that are untitled or unproductive due to unresolved ownership issues. This effectively stifles capital formation and economic growth, especially in Nigeria, where the LUA’s inefficiencies are a major factor. The academic narrative underscores the urgency of implementing stronger land tenure systems, which can yield productive land use, thereby mitigating wastage of resources and fostering economic advancement.
The discussions at the conference reflect an emerging consensus that the status quo under the LUA cannot sustain Nigeria’s aspirations for inclusive development and economic stability. For land reform to be effective, it is crucial to realign both governmental and private sector interests. Policies must focus on enhancing the legal and administrative frameworks governing land use while fostering an environment conducive to private sector engagement. Moreover, a thorough understanding of the systemic challenges hindering the real estate market in Nigeria will be instrumental in devising strategies that facilitate better land utilization and boost economic performance.
Ultimately, the complexity inherent in amending the Land Use Act requires a multifaceted approach that considers the socio-political implications of land governance. Engaging various stakeholders, including government entities, private investors, and civic organizations, is essential to forging a path towards sustainable land management that not only alleviates the burden of “dead capital” but also enhances the overall quality of governance. Comprehensive reforms that integrate land policies with economic objectives stand to usher in a new era of development, positioning Nigeria and other African nations to harness their full economic potential.
