on Real Estate Development in Udenu,
Enugu State, Nigeria
FEATURED PAPER
By Innocent Franklin Makata and Prof. Nnamdi Alex Udobi
Department of Estate Management
Delta State University of Science and Technology
Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria
Abstract
This study delves into the complex dynamics of land ownership in Udenu, Enugu State, Nigeria, and how these dynamics influence real estate development. In Udenu, land ownership is largely dictated by customary practices, where land is communally or family-owned and passed down through generations without formal documentation. This lack of legal titles poses significant challenges for real estate developers, who often face legal uncertainties and administrative hurdles when trying to acquire land. The situation is further complicated by the coexistence of these traditional practices with statutory regulations, particularly after the introduction of Nigeria’s Land Use Act of 1978. This overlap has led to conflicts and delays in land management. The study examines how these land ownership issues impact both urban and rural development in Udenu. In urban areas, fragmented land ownership slows down urbanization, causing conflicts between the need for development and traditional landholding patterns. In rural areas, unclear land titles and resistance to converting agricultural land for other purposes hinder development. The practice of dividing land among heirs further fragments landholdings, making it difficult to find large plots for development. Through case studies, the research underscores the importance of clear land ownership structures for successful real estate projects in Udenu. For instance, successful developments in Obollo-Afor highlight the economic benefits of resolving land ownership issues, while stalled projects in Ibagwa-Aka and Amalla-Egazi demonstrate the challenges posed by land disputes and opposition from local communities. The study also looks at current trends in Udenu, such as efforts to formalize land titles and increased government involvement in land management. These trends are expected to improve land tenure security, reduce disputes, and attract more investment to the region. However, ongoing land disputes, high land costs, and bureaucratic obstacles remain significant challenges. The study recommends comprehensive reforms to harmonize customary and statutory land tenure systems, improve land administration, and promote secure and transparent land ownership practices. By involving all stakeholders; traditional authorities, government bodies, developers, and local communities, Udenu can unlock its real estate potential, achieve sustainable economic growth, and preserve its cultural heritage.
Keywords; land, ownership, real estate development, Udenu.
1.0 Introduction
Land ownership dynamics refer to the complex mix of social, legal, and economic factors that shape how land is owned, controlled, and transferred in a particular area. In Udenu, a local government area in Enugu State, Nigeria, these dynamics are shaped by both customary land tenure systems and formal government regulations. Land tenure here defines who has the right to use the land, for how long, and under what conditions, all of which significantly impact property development in the region (Oluwasola & Agbola, 2020).
Understanding land ownership dynamics in Udenu is crucial because they directly affect how accessible, usable, and secure land is, key elements that drive real estate development. In many Nigerian communities, traditional land tenure systems often conflict with modern laws, leading to disputes and complications when acquiring land for development (Ezenagu, 2017). These challenges create barriers for investors and developers, ultimately slowing down urbanization and economic growth. On the flip side, clear and well-organized land ownership systems can make it easier to develop real estate by providing secure land titles and reducing the risks involved in land acquisition (Omirin, 2019).
Udenu, like many areas in southeastern Nigeria, has a long history rooted in traditional land tenure systems. Here, land is typically held by families or communities and passed down through generations. While this system is deeply embedded in the local culture, it poses challenges in modern times, especially when it comes to formalizing land ownership and facilitating property development (Afigbo, 2016).
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How to cite this work: Makata, I. F. and Udobi, N. A. (2024). Land Ownership Dynamics and Their Impact on Real Estate Development in Udenu, Enugu State, Nigeria, PM World Journal. Vol. XIII, Issue X, October/November. Available online at https://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pmwj146-OctNov2024-Makata-Udobi-Land-Ownership-Dynamics-Impact-on-Real-Estate-Development-in-Udenu.pdf
About the Authors
Innocent Franklin Makata
Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria
Mr Innocent Franklin Makata holds BS.c, MS.c in Estate Management from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. He is currently a lecturer at Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, Delta Stat,e Nigeria. He has been published in some reputable journals. Mr. Makata can be contacted at makataif@dsust.edu.ng.
Prof. Nnamdi Alex Udobi
Awka, Nigeria
Prof. Nnamdi Alex Udobi is a Former Head, Department of Estate Management, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka. An Associate Member of Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (ANIVS) and a Registered Estate Surveyors and Valuers (RSV). He has published national and international journals. He is a Professor in Estate Management at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria. He is Principal Consultant at Alex Udobi and Company, a firm of Estate Surveyors and Valuers in Nigeria.
