THE LAND USE ACT OF 1978 AND THE IMPERATIVES FOR REFORMS FOR EFFECTIVE LAND ADMINISTRATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Land is one of the most indispensable resources available to man. It is a store of wealth and a

vital element in the socio-economic development of any country. To ensure its accessibility and

prudent use, various legislations have been enacted by governments all over the world. In Nigeria,

the principal legislation governing the control and management of land is the Land Use Act of

1978, which abolished the existing freehold title to land and limits the title that can be granted

under it to leasehold interests not exceeding 99years. This makes all allottees of state land and

owners of properties covered by Certificates of Occupancy to be tenants of the state. This paper

examines some salient issues relating to the administration of land

as stipulated in the Land use

Act and their implications for growth and development. It posits

that unless urgent steps are

taken to review the Act and bring about reform in the system of

land administration, Nigeria’s

quest for sustainable national development will remain elusive.