The Ondo State House of Assembly has called for faster processing and issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to facilitate investment, improve access to credit and promote economic development.

The assembly made the call during an oversight visit by the committee on lands and housing to the ministry of lands and housing, Ondo State Property Development Corporation (OSDPC) and Ondo State Signage and Advertisement Agency (OSSAA) in Akure on Wednesday.

The committee’s chairman, Abiola Oladapo, said efficient land administration was critical to creating an enabling environment for businesses and property owners to unlock the economic value of their assets.

Mr Oladapo said the visit was aimed at assessing the agencies’ activities and budget performance, identifying operational challenges and determining areas requiring legislative intervention.

He specifically sought explanations for delays in the processing of C of O, stressing that property owners needed the documents to secure loans and other financial facilities for investment.

The lawmaker also directed the ministry of lands and housing to submit documents relating to its ongoing projects and contractors, saying members of the committee would inspect some of the projects to assess their level of completion.

Mr Oladapo assured the ministry and agencies of the legislature’s support through appropriate legislation, noting that regular engagement would enable the assembly to better understand their challenges and reflect them in its reports and budget considerations.

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye, the permanent secretary, Niyi Akinbola, said the ministry was responsible for land administration, construction of public buildings, and upgrading and renovation of government facilities across the state.

At the OSDPC, the general manager, Nene Ogunleye, said the corporation, under the supervision of the ministry, was responsible for providing affordable housing but faced challenges in fully delivering on its mandate.

Ms Ogunleye expressed appreciation to the committee for the visit, saying stronger collaboration with the legislature would help the corporation address some of its challenges.

At OSSAA, the permanent secretary, Morayo Bayo-Philips, said the agency was collaborating with local governments to identify and capture signage owners, businesses and outdoor advertising structures across the state.

She said the initiative would establish a comprehensive statewide database, reduce revenue leakages and improve compliance in the outdoor advertising sector. 

(NAN)