An Examination of Land Title Registration Process in Edo State

The land title registration process in Edo State is a critical component of land administration that involves government agencies and professionals. This study examines the institutional framework, professional stakeholders, procedural requirements, and challenges in the land title registration system of Edo State, Nigeria. The research objectives are to identify the government parastatals responsible for land title registration, ascertain the professionals involved in the process, examine the step-by-step registration procedures, and evaluate the associated challenges in Edo State. Using descriptive analysis methodology, data was collected from 63 respondents comprising estate surveyors and valuers, and staff from Edo Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS). The study utilized questionnaires and structured interviews analyzed through SPSS. Findings revealed that while EDOGIS serves as the primary agency, multiple departments including the Ministry of Lands and Survey, and the Land Use and Allocation Committee play crucial roles in the registration process. The research identified key professionals including estate surveyors, land surveyors, lawyers, and town planners as essential stakeholders in the registration process. The study also uncovered significant challenges including incorrect and incomplete documentations, bureaucratic bottlenecks, encroachment into adjoining properties, lack of man power and lengthy processing times averaging above 90 days for completion. It was concluded that the current system requires significant streamlining of registration process and establishing a clear timeframe for registration. Recommendations include the definition and optimization of the roles of each professionals while fostering inter professional collaborations. Some of the most significant challenges can be addressed by simplifying documentation requirements and improving boundary demarcations and staffing levels to enhance the efficiency of land title registration in Edo State.