Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially endorsed the initial set of Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).
The State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, disclosed this development in his Umuahia office, confirming that the Governor’s commitment to completing the signing of C/O and other titled documents within a 30-day cycle has been fulfilled.
Chukwumerije also revealed plans to establish a Building Laboratory in the state as part of measures to control and enhance the quality of materials used in construction projects.
Highlighting the backlog challenge, the Commissioner mentioned that approximately 2,000 Certificates of Occupancy, dating back seven years, are awaiting resolution.
Assuring transparency, efficiency, and value, Chukwumerije stated that the state aims to address land transactions, public building maintenance, and ensure adherence to the principles of the current administration.
As part of the Ministry’s 2024 goals, he outlined initiatives such as achieving the best land administration system in Nigeria, enhancing service delivery for Abians, renovating public buildings, increasing land transactions, issuing a million C/Os, and resolving land issues in specific areas.
Chukwumerije acknowledged the Ministry’s focus on building control enforcement and expressed appreciation to the Umuahia Capital Development Authority for its efforts in preventing haphazard construction and addressing building collapse concerns.
Recalling the December 11, 2023, awareness campaign in Aba and Umuahia, the Ministry continues to emphasize the importance of obtaining the only legal title to land ownership, the Certificate of Occupancy.
