By Sylvia Okoi
The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, recently presented new Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to some landowners whose properties and businesses are located within the State.
Speaking during the presentation, Governor Otu emphasized that obtaining proper land documentation would not only enhance the state’s economy but also facilitate business growth through improved access to bank loans.
“This is a significant date in the history of Cross River State’s development,” declared Governor Otu. “It has been one of our thematic areas from the onset, and we are committed to making substantial progress.”
The Governor praised the efforts of the Cross River State Geographic Information Agency (CRGIA) for their exemplary overhaul of land documentation processes.
He expressed satisfaction with the readiness and technical skills demonstrated by CRGIA in facilitating the regularization of C of O.
Acknowledging the achievements of the land cluster, Governor Otu assured that securing land titles would enable businesses in the state to flourish, making Cross River more inviting for investors. “Many people possess valuable assets that lack recognition due to the absence of certification,” he added.
The Governor expressed optimism that these recent developments represent steps toward greater achievements for the State. He extended his gratitude to NUGITECH Company for their vital contributions, emphasizing that their involvement signals a call for increased commitment.
Earlier in his remarks, Director General of the Cross River Geographic Information Agency, Mr. William Archibong, commended Governor Otu for his practical leadership and commitment to ensuring a seamless land regularization process. He noted that obtaining a C of O for government lands typically takes 21 days, while private lands take approximately 42 days.
Mr. Archibong assured investors that the newly designed process would be free of complications, stating, “With the systems established by our consultants, I can guarantee that there are no leakages. Our digital systems ensure faster processing and tracking, mitigating any potential issues.”
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Lands, Chief Francis Ekpenyong, asserted that this initiative would transform the state into an economic hub, enabling landowners to easily access loans by using their land documents as collateral.
He emphasized that cumbersome processes are now a thing of the past, with the land cluster fully equipped to fulfill its mandate.
On his part, Surveyor Patrick Bassey, the State Surveyor General, echoed the sentiment, stating that the presentation of the Certificates of Occupancy signifies the state’s digital advancement. He noted that the land cluster has been collaborating effectively for better land management.
In their separate interviews, beneficiaries including Barr. Eno Edet representing Mainland Oil and Gas, Prof. Victor Ansa, Lt. Awah Sunday Sam, Ugorji Harriet Ifunaya representing Avix Mobile Device Limited, and Dr. Boniface Uji Ago—expressed their gratitude to the state governor and the entire land cluster for streamlining the process.
They noted that they had previously faced significant challenges in documenting their lands.
In attendance were the Chief Executive officer, Nugi Technologies Nigeria Ltd, Ms. Akinlabi Ajoke and their financial partner from Sterling bank; Relationship Manager/State Representative, Ms. Chidinma Onyemaizu.