LAND REGISTRATION PROCESS FOR SUSTAINABLE LAND REGISTRATION PRACTICE IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Sustainable land registration practice is crucial in any developing market economy, such as Lagos State, because land is used and exchanged more efficiently when the underlying rights are properly documented. Although efforts to modernize the land registration process in Lagos have gained momentum, particularly with the introduction of the Aumentum technology to streamline the entire land administration infrastructure, such innovations remain uneven, and their impact on sustainable land registration practice in Lagos State is still unfolding. Therefore, it is essential to examine the land registration process for sustainable land registration practice in Lagos State. The quantitative method was adopted in this study. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire electronically sent to 200 respondents.  The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Several significant findings emerged from the analysis, highlighting the importance of sustainable land registration practice. The findings suggest that while there is a growing awareness of the benefits of land registration, procedural delays, high transaction costs, and a lack of transparency continue to undermine the system's overall sustainability. Furthermore, the study revealed that although technological tools have been introduced, many users cannot navigate these platforms effectively, limiting their potential impact. The study also found that trust in the system remains low, particularly among property owners with prior negative experiences. Based on these insights, the study recommends strengthening digital infrastructure, simplifying procedures, improving public education on land rights, and enhancing the capacity of land administration personnel. These measures are crucial for improving access, efficiency, and accountability in land registration, ultimately contributing to more sustainable urban development in Lagos State.