Unregistered Land: Nigeria’s $300 Billion Opportunity, Says Housing Minister

Nigeria’s Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has revealed that more than 90 percent of the nation’s land remains unregistered, representing an untapped capital potential of approximately $300 billion.

Addressing state commissioners at the 13th National Council on Housing, Lands, and Urban Development in Gombe, Dangiwa stressed the Federal Government’s readiness to collaborate with state authorities to register, document, and title land parcels nationwide.

Dangiwa highlighted that formalizing land ownership across Nigeria is essential for encouraging development and investment, providing both financial security and clarity for landholders. “Currently, over 90 percent of the country’s land remains unregistered, representing an estimated $300bn in untapped capital,” he stated, adding that improving land titling could catalyse economic growth and unlock access to credit for millions of Nigerians.

The council meeting underscored the significance of land registration to foster economic stability and development, as well as attract foreign and local investment. According to Dangiwa, the government’s joint efforts with states aim to bring land assets into the formal economy, empowering landowners and setting the stage for widespread infrastructure expansion across the country.