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Challenges in amending Nigeria’s land use act highlighted at land reform conference
Dr Ugochukwu Chime and experts discuss challenges in amending Nigeria’s Land Use Act, citing concerns over governance and economic impacts.
At the 2nd edition of the International Conference and Fair on Land and Development in Lagos, the Chairman of the Ministerial Land Reform Task Team, Dr Ugochukwu Chime, highlighted the difficulties of amending Nigeria’s 1978 Land Use Act (LUA).
He explained that various attempts to amend the Act had failed due to fears about its potential impact on various interests and the widespread perception of the law as a tool for land grabbing.
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According to Dr Chime, revising the LUA will prove to be a “tall order” due to the socio-political implications associated with land ownership in Nigeria.
He stressed that improving operational processes within the 38 land administration entities and enhancing the legal infrastructure for quicker resolution of land disputes must be prioritised before considering any amendments.
Dr Chime also pointed out the necessity of aligning land administration with the country’s financial services and legal systems, stressing the involvement of the private sector in driving these reforms.
He warned against government attempts to use land reforms primarily as a means to increase taxation and generate income, urging a more comprehensive approach that considers the efficiency of private sector businesses, which control over 85% of Nigeria’s productive activities.
In support of these concerns, Toye Eniola, Executive Secretary of the Association of Housing Corporation of Nigeria, reiterated that amending the Land Use Act is challenging due to the provision that grants governors full control over land.
Eniola explained that any amendment would require the approval of both the National Assembly and the state Houses of Assembly, a complex process hindered by the influence governors hold over the legislature.
Eniola further noted that the control of land has become a significant source of income for many state governments, and thus, no government would be willing to relinquish these powers.
Meanwhile, Prof Timothy Nubi, Director of the Centre for Housing and Sustainable Development, provided insights into the broader issue of land and property value in Africa.
Despite rapid urbanisation and economic growth in regions like Africa and Asia, he noted that these areas still have much lower real estate values compared to their potential.
He attributed this to systemic challenges, including inadequate data on property markets and the continued existence of “dead capital” – untitled or unproductive assets, as described by economist Hernando De Soto.
Prof Nubi pointed out that in Nigeria, weak land tenure systems and unresolved land ownership issues, particularly those under the Land Use Act, have hindered capital formation and economic growth, leading to significant wastage of potential wealth.
The discussions at the conference underscore the complex relationship between land ownership, governance, and economic development in Nigeria, suggesting that comprehensive reforms are needed to unlock the full potential of the country’s land and property markets.
Joseph Aloba, father of late singer Mohbad, reveals his life improved significantly after his son’s passing, attributing it to divine help
Joseph Aloba, the father of late Nigerian singer Mohbad, has shared how his life has seen a remarkable improvement since the tragic passing of his son in September last year.
Speaking in an interview with media personality Akin Abolade, Aloba expressed gratitude for the unexpected blessings he has received, which he credits to the combined influence of Mohbad’s spirit and God.
In the emotional interview, Aloba revealed that Mohbad had made significant plans to support him, but these ambitions remained unfulfilled due to unforeseen circumstances before the singer’s untimely death.
However, he stated that since Mohbad’s passing, he has experienced an outpouring of support from well-wishers who have provided him with essential items, including a car.
“Let me just say yes, my life got better after Mohbad’s death because he is my friend. He had it in plan to do many things for me, but they didn’t allow him to do them,” Aloba explained.
“After his death, it was the spirit of Mohbad, and that of God combined together that began to send people to assist me. Even the car and everything I have now, it was people that gave them to me, and it is beyond ordinary.”
Reflecting further, Aloba noted that the assistance he now receives mirrors the intentions his son had for him. He added, “Those were the things he was meant to be doing for me, but they didn’t allow him to do them.”
The late Mohbad, born Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, passed away under mysterious circumstances in September 2024, leaving fans and the Nigerian music industry in mourning. Investigations into the cause of his death remain ongoing, with many still seeking answers.
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo ends the controversial tax clearance policy, ensuring students’ education rights remain protected
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, has ordered an immediate halt to the policy requiring parents to present Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) for their children’s enrollment in state-owned tertiary institutions.
This decision follows public outcry and protests led by civil society groups, who argued that the policy infringed upon the right to education.
Announcing the directive during a media briefing in Lokoja, the Chairman of the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS), Alhaji Sule Enehe, stated that the move reflects the governor’s commitment to accessible education.
“The governor responded swiftly to public concerns, emphasizing that education must remain accessible to all Kogi State students,” said Enehe.
The policy, introduced to encourage tax compliance, drew criticism for potentially denying access to education for students whose parents were unable to provide TCCs.
With the directive now revoked, students can register and gain admission without the previously mandated requirement.
Enehe, however, reminded residents of their constitutional duty to pay taxes, noting that non-compliance could restrict access to benefits such as bursary allowances.
He added, “Parents must play their part by paying taxes to support state education and other social amenities.”
Highlighting further reforms, Enehe disclosed that KGIRS has ramped up efforts to eliminate illegal tax practices. Since the crackdown began, 43 illegal tax collectors have been prosecuted, while several corrupt staff members have been dismissed.
To streamline operations, the revenue service has digitised tax payment systems, allowing individuals and businesses to fulfil their obligations more efficiently.
KGIRS reported steady revenue growth in recent years, with collections rising from ₦17 billion in 2021 to ₦27.7 billion in 2024.
The service has set an ambitious target of ₦35.1 billion for 2025, aiming to sustain the state’s developmental initiatives.
Governor Ododo’s administration continues to prioritise education, as seen in the establishment of three state-owned universities.
The governor’s directive aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder educational access for Kogi State students.
This decisive action signals the government’s resolve to balance tax compliance with the constitutional right to education, fostering both development and inclusivity.
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate has risen to 34.80% in December 2024, driven by increased demand during the festive season. The report highlights ongoing economic challenges despite a slight month-on-month decrease
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate surged to 34.80% in December 2024, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
This marks a slight increase from 34.60% in November, driven by heightened demand for goods and services during the festive season.
The year-on-year comparison shows a significant 5.87 percentage point rise from 28.92% in December 2023, pointing to a persistent inflationary trend.
However, month-on-month inflation decreased marginally, falling to 2.44% in December from 2.64% in November 2024.
Urban areas experienced a more pronounced inflation rise of 37.29%, while rural areas saw an inflation rate of 32.47%.
Despite this, the month-on-month decrease offers a sign of easing inflationary pressure. Analysts emphasise the need for effective monetary and fiscal measures to stabilise prices and address the persistent economic challenges.
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