Minna: The Niger state government has announced the revocation of 20 undeveloped land allocations across the state between 2023 and 2025 as part of its ongoing efforts to improve land governance and curb speculative holding. Alhaji Bello Ahmadu, the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, made this disclosure in Minna, emphasizing the government’s zero-tolerance policy on illegal land layouts.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ahmadu revealed that the revoked plots, which were initially allocated for housing, agriculture, and other projects, have remained undeveloped for three to five years, particularly in the Suleja and Tafa Local Government Areas. He stressed that no private developer would be allowed to subdivide, design, or sell land without obtaining full approval from the Ministry of Lands and Survey.
Ahmadu pointed out that some investors were allocated as much as 150 hectares but failed to commence development years after allocation. The government is determined not to let strategic lands remain idle. The ministry has been directed to inventory undeveloped plots across the state and take appropriate action, including revocation when necessary.
He explained that land is a strategic public asset vested in the governor in trust for the people and must be allocated and utilized in line with statutory provisions. The ministry is developing a comprehensive governance framework that covers land administration, town planning, survey coordination, development control, and land value management. This policy document will be presented to the public post-approval by the State Executive Council to institutionalize due process, transparency, and sustainable land utilization.
On the infrastructure front, Ahmadu highlighted ongoing projects such as the construction of new hospitals, renovation of schools, and major road corridors, which have opened up new investment opportunities. Initiatives like the Greater Suleja Development Plan and the redesign of the Jazu to Chanchaga corridor are aimed at modernizing the areas and ensuring orderly urban expansion.
The state plans to use the Land Value Capture model to enhance revenue sustainability. Proceeds from corridor development, structured plot allocations, Infrastructure Reserve Land, and change-of-use approvals are expected to boost internally generated revenue. The ministry has set a revenue target of between N7 billion and N8 billion for the 2026 fiscal year, urging landowners to regularize their titles.
Ahmadu further revealed plans for an industrial layout in the Diko community, with about 1,000 hectares approved, part of which is earmarked for agriculture to stimulate economic growth and attract investors. A Land Use Enforcement and Monitoring Unit will be established, and mining and quarry operators will need to obtain Temporary Rights of Occupancy. Additionally, a comprehensive audit of telecom masts is planned to enforce compliance with land use charges.
He called on the media and the public to report illegal subdivisions and encroachments, emphasizing the importance of public vigilance. Dr. Abdul Hussein, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, reiterated the state government’s commitment to peaceful resolution and transparent land administration.