Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has officially launched the recertification of Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) as part of a comprehensive initiative to improve land management in the state.
The program, unveiled on Monday, aims to enhance transparency, secure investments, and resolve land ownership disputes.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Yusuf urged landowners to participate promptly in the process, emphasizing its benefits for individuals and the state.
“This recertification ensures accurate and secure land records, protects investments, and resolves disputes. We call on landowners to embrace the reforms,” Yusuf stated.
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The governor highlighted the renovation of the Kano State Geographic Information System (KANGIS) and the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning’s administrative block as evidence of his administration’s commitment to land reforms.
The updated Geographic Information System (GIS) is expected to improve urban planning, enhance taxation, and eliminate revenue leakages.
“We have banned inappropriate land allocations and set up a Task Force on Development Control to tackle urban development challenges and preserve Kano’s cultural heritage,” Yusuf added.
Governor Yusuf also criticized the previous administration for alleged corruption and inadequate urban planning, vowing to restore accountability and innovation to land management in Kano State.
The state’s Commissioner for Land, Abduljabbar Umar, detailed the transition to digital Certificates of Occupancy, noting that the process would render current titles void after a specified period, requiring landowners to revalidate their ownership.
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“This process will reduce manipulation and make land ownership easier to verify and update,” Umar explained.
He stressed the importance of registering unapproved residential and commercial structures and formalizing informal settlements, ensuring accurate records and preventing future disputes.
“The people of Kano should expect a Ministry of Land and Physical Planning that is more efficient, customer-focused, and committed to timely and transparent services,” he added.
The new digital system features enhanced security, making Certificates of Occupancy nearly impossible to forge.
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The reforms are also designed to protect property owners from fraud, streamline administrative processes, and support urban development in line with modern standards.
Landowners are encouraged to renew their titles promptly to take advantage of the upgraded system and safeguard their property rights.