Abia Govt Flags Off Phase II Of C-of-O Awareness Campaign, Records Highest Issuance In State History (Video)

The Abia State Government has launched Phase II of its public sensitization campaign for the “Get Your C-of-O in 30 Days” initiative.

Speaking during a press briefing in Umuahia on Thursday, November 20, 2025, the Honourable Commissioner for Lands, Chaka Chukwumerije, said the programme has already recorded historic progress since its introduction.

According to him, Governor Alex Otti has so far signed 3,256 Certificates of Occupancy, with 1,778 issued in 2025 alone, the highest number ever recorded in a single year in Abia since 1999.

Chukwumerije explained that the initiative is helping residents secure their land ownership, access mortgages, conduct property transfers easily, and support business growth.

He noted that while the process has greatly improved, some applications still experience delays due to faulty survey plans, incomplete documents, delayed payments, or incorrect information submitted by applicants.

The Commissioner also announced that enforcement of land-related statutory fees, including ground rent, has now begun fully in 2025, following earlier waivers granted in 2023 and 2024.

He further revealed that the government is currently engaged in large-scale projects requiring land including the proposed Abia Airport, new housing layouts, agro-industrial sites, and power infrastructure as well as a full digital mapping of the entire state to improve planning and land administration.

Chukwumerije encouraged property owners and new applicants to take advantage of the simplified system, stressing that the process is transparent and does not require middlemen.

For enquiries, the public is advised to contact the Ministry via 0916 000 2083 or [email protected].