26/09/2025
Clearing the Air on the Proposed Sale of Land in Nguroje(The land situated in Forest, Nguroje)
In light of recent concerns raised by some youths over the proposed sale of land in Nguroje, it is important to set the record straight. The Land Use Act of 1978 clearly provides the legal framework for land administration in Nigeria.
Section 1 of the Act states:
“All land comprised in the territory of each State in the Federation is hereby vested in the Governor of that State, and such land shall be held in trust and administered for the use and common benefit of all Nigerians.”
This means that land in Nguroje is held by Government in trust for the people, and Government has the authority to allocate, lease, or sell such land when it serves the common good. Section 5 empowers the Governor to grant statutory rights of occupancy for all purposes, while Section 6 gives Local Governments power to grant customary rights of occupancy in rural areas. Section 22 further makes it clear that no transfer or sale of land is valid without the Governor’s consent, and Section 28 gives power for revocation in overriding public interest, with compensation where necessary.
From these legal provisions, the sale of land in Nguroje is not improper — it is lawful and can be a tool for development. What is important is how the land is sold and who benefits from it.
The land should be sold in a way that brings economic benefits to the town of Nguroje, by attracting housing projects, agricultural ventures, commercial activities, and infrastructural growth that will uplift the community. At the same time, the poor masses must not be left behind. Prices should be set at affordable levels, so that ordinary citizens can also purchase land for housing and other related activities. This way, development is not for the rich alone but for everyone.
Selling land is not about taking away from the people — it is about putting the land to productive use. What matters most is that the process should be transparent, fair, and inclusive, so that Nguroje as a whole reaps the benefits of progress.
Land is the foundation of growth. If managed wisely, the sale of land in Nguroje will not only bring investment but also ensure that the poor and ordinary citizens can secure a place for their families, businesses, and future.
Comr Naimu Ahmad Abdullahi
Secretary, Media and publicity
September 26, 2025
