From TCNEWS
In its efforts to sort out and address double land allocation issues, Abia State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije has announced that the recertification exercise of all existing titled documents would commence in the state from June 1st, 2024.
The Commissioner who also assured that the exercise would be seamless and effective, also dosaid that every part of the state is important in the new Abia project.
Speaking at the ongoing 1st session of the 11th synod at All Saints Church World Bank Housing Estate Umuahia World Bank Archdeaconry, with the theme, “Sitting at the feet of Jesus, the right choice”, the Commissioner also said that the state government has reduced the processing period for certificate of occupancy (C-of-O) in the state to a maximum of 30 days with the non-interference of the middle man.
He pointed out that the Ministry of Lands and Housing, Abia State is responsible for issuing certificates of occupancy; processing land applications; providing housing schemes for citizens; land administration and management; housing development and provision; urban planning and development control; survey and mapping and dispute resolution
He said the reduction of the processing period for certificate of occupancy is aimed at ensuring easy and quick processing of the certificate.
The Commissioner who emphasized the importance of the certificate, explained that the certificate is the only document that will guarantee compensation for a property in case of its acquisition or demolition by the government but has the potential of unlocking the untapped oil well in one’s land.
“The theme of the synod – sitting at the feet of Jesus is in line with the vision of Governor Alex Otti, because the new Abia is sitting at the feet of Jesus. We are running a corrective administration that has come to set the right foundation for Abia”, Chukwumerije said, even as he appealed to both prospective and property owners in the Anglican communion Umuahia Diocese to avail themselves of the opportunity of getting their Certificate of Occupancy.
He said that the plan of the present administration is to steadily invest in public infrastructure for the purpose of making the communities economically viable and attractive to investors.
The Rt. Rev’d Geoffrey Ibeabuchi, Anglican Bishop of Umuahia Diocese in his speech, said that the Church is in partnership with the State Government in the repositioning of the state and in the course of making Abia better.
He passionately pleaded with the Commissioner to assist them realize the land allocated to Church in Bende Local Government Area, which is being disputed.
Bishop Ibeabuchi also seized the opportunity to laud Mr. Chukwumerije’s exemplary leadership qualities.