Abia Govt Begins Enforcement Of Title Recertification, Ground Rent Payments

The Abia State Government, through the Ministry of Lands and Housing, has commenced the enforcement of land title recertification and ground rent payments across the state.

This follows an earlier announcement in May and July 2024, mandating all landowners—whether for developed or undeveloped properties—to submit their title documents for recertification.

A public notice issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Housing during a press briefing with journalist in Umuahia, Chaka Ikenna Chukwumerije, warned that failure to comply with the directive would result in legal consequences, including the possible revocation of Certificates of Occupancy (CofO) and land allocations.

According to the notice, landowners are required to provide the following documents:

1. Proof of submission of their title document for recertification.

2. Evidence of up-to-date payment of ground rent and other statutory fees.

3. Fencing permit and approved building plan (where applicable).

4. A copy of their title document if it has not been previously submitted.

The enforcement covers all housing estates in Abia, including IBB Phase I, Agbama, Ehimiri, Isieke, and World Bank (Umuahia and Aba). It also extends to any authorized land-use changes, with the Ministry of Lands and Housing tasked with monitoring compliance.

Landowners have been given 14 days from the date of the announcement to comply. Those who fail to do so will be considered in default of their land allocation terms, which could lead to sanctions under existing laws.

The ministry has directed landowners to submit the required documents to the Customer Service Unit at the Abia State Secretariat, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, or the Aba Zonal Lands Office at No. 2 Industry Road, Off Ikot Ekpene Road, Aba. For further inquiries, the ministry can be reached via phone at 09160002083 or 09160002084, or via email at cofo@abiastate.gov.ng.

This move aligns with the state’s broader efforts to enforce compliance with land regulations and ensure that landowners meet their financial and legal obligations.