The Land Use Act of 1978 is one of Nigeria’s most significant pieces of legislation, regulating land ownership and use. It vests all land in a state’s governor, who holds it in trust for the people.
Key Aspects:
- Ownership and Control: Individuals can only acquire rights to land through a Certificate of Occupancy issued by the governor.
- Compulsory Acquisition: The government can acquire land for public purposes but must compensate the owner fairly.
- Customary Land Use: Traditional practices are recognized, but they must align with the Act’s provisions.
Recent Cases:
- A notable case in 2023 involved the revocation of land titles in Lagos due to non-compliance with zoning laws, sparking debates about the Act’s fairness.
While the Act has streamlined land administration, critics argue it limits private ownership and centralizes too much power in governors’ hands.