…Seeks Collaboration with Traditional Rulers
By Sylvia Okoi
In a bid to enhance service delivery and improve land management, the Cross River Geographic Information Agency (CRGIA) has taken its property rights advocacy campaign to Bakassi Local Government Area.
Speaking at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Bakassi, the Director General of CRGIA, Mr. William Archibong, described the visit as crucial to streamlining the issuance of customary land rights for rural dwellers.
Mr. Archibong explained that the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, in line with his People First mantra, has directed the streamlining of customary land rights to guarantee land ownership security for rural communities across the state.
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He added that with the Agency’s advanced technology and plans to decentralize the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy to Local Government Councils and Traditional Institutions, the process would enhance credibility, promote wealth creation, and drive economic growth in the state.
According to him, in collaboration with Local Government Councils, CRGIA outlets will be established in each council to handle land administration processes, including the issuance of customary land rights.
Reiterating the Agency’s mandate for effective land administration, the Director of Operations, Mr. Jesam Iwara, explained that issuing Certificates of Occupancy at the local government level would not only bridge proximity gaps but also reflect Governor Otu’s goodwill in ensuring that the impact of good governance is felt across all 18 local government areas of the state.
He noted that although the signing of Certificates of Occupancy by Local Government Chairmen is recognized by law, the authority has remained dormant over the years. Mr. Iwara emphasized that the Land Use Act recognizes traditional institutions as custodians of land, adding that customary land rights provide equal opportunities for all.
“You are presiding over land territories. Unlocking the potentials and benefits of issuing Certificates of Occupancy will drive rural investment, as more people will be able to secure bank loans for their businesses,” he stated.
In his response, the Paramount Ruler of Bakassi, HRM Etiyin Dr. Etim Okon Edet, appreciated the Management of CRGIA for recognizing traditional rulers, describing the visit as enlightening and critical in advancing the goodwill of Governor Otu’s administration toward improving citizens’ welfare.
The monarch also called for a simplified and accessible land registration process, noting that reviving customary land rights in Cross River showcases inclusivity and reinforces the role of traditional institutions in governance.
Also speaking, a clan head and member of the Bakassi Traditional Rulers Council, Chief Ekeng Bassey, advised the Agency to adopt best practices and close loopholes that could undermine the initiative.
On his part, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Mr. Eyibio Asuquo, highlighted the services offered by the Agency, which include consent processing, Geographic Information System (GIS) and mapping consultancy, as well as the issuance of digital, bankable, and tamper-proof Certificates of Occupancy both statutory and customary. He assured the royal fathers of the Agency’s commitment to delivering efficient and transparent services.
The meeting ended on a highly positive note, with all parties expressing satisfaction as CRGIA’s proactive engagement with traditional rulers and stakeholders paves the way for a more efficient and secure land management system in Cross River State.
