Akwa Ibom State Initiates Plan to Digitize Land Acquisition

Akwa Ibom State Government has announced its readiness to unveil a Geographical Information System (GIS), named Akwa-GIS, designed to streamline land administration and curb irregularities in the state. This initiative was revealed by the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Capt. Iniobong Ekong (retd.), during a media briefing on Monday. Ekong emphasized that the delay in the project’s launch was due to the integration process involving various state agencies such as the Office of the Surveyor General, the State Internal Revenue Services, the Land Use and Allocation Committee, and the Uyo Captain City Structure.

He highlighted that the forthcoming GIS launch aims to revolutionize land acquisition processes by enabling citizens to carry out land-related transactions online from the comfort of their homes. Ekong stressed that this system would expedite procedures such as land searches, submission of documents like power of attorney, and issuance of Certificates of Occupancy. The overarching goal is to eliminate fraudulent practices and promote the principle of ease of doing business within the state.

Ekong reassured that the Ministry of Lands and Housing is working diligently to finalize the GIS integration process and ensure a successful launch shortly. He expressed optimism that once operational, the GIS would significantly reduce cases of land grabbing in Akwa Ibom State. The commissioner underscored the government’s commitment to modernizing land administration and enhancing transparency in the state’s real estate sector.