Edo govt issued over 9,000 certificates of occupancy in two months: Official

Mr Ikpasaja emphasised the legal significance of the document, noting that any landed property without a Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) was not recognised as a legal asset.

News Agency of Nigeria • April 20, 2025

C of O

The Edo Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS) processed and registered over 9,000 certificates of occupancy (C-of-Os) between February and April 17, 2025.

EdoGIS’ managing director, Tony Ikpasaja, disclosed this on Sunday in Benin while hosting executive members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo Council.

Mr Ikpasaja was appointed in January by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

He described the achievement as remarkable, especially in the face of challenges, including a system shutdown allegedly orchestrated by a consultant engaged by the immediate past administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.

According to him, the number of C-of-Os processed during the period surpassed the approximately 1,000 certificates handled under the previous administration between 2023 and date.

He attributed the success to the deployment of new software and the upgrade of operational infrastructure.

“When I assumed office, I met over 7,500 unattended files belonging to applicants who had already paid for their land registration. It was disheartening.

“As of today, I can confidently say we have captured and processed over 9,000 files. We are now signing and issuing certificates of occupancy efficiently,” Mr Ikpasaja said.

Mr Ikpasaja emphasised the legal significance of the document, noting that any landed property without a certificate of occupancy (C-of-O) was not recognised as a legal asset.

He also reassured applicants that ongoing submissions were secure and protected from duplication or unauthorised processing.

“Thanks to the agency’s newly adopted system, which complies with international standards, including those of the World Bank,” he added.

Mr Ikpasaja announced the establishment of new offices in Auchi and Ekpoma to decentralise operations and bring land administration services closer to local communities.

Earlier, the Correspondents’ Chapel chairman, Patrick Ochoga, congratulated Mr Ikpasaja on his appointment and described land administration as a critical sector in Edo development.

(NAN)

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