In Edo State, business investors are becoming increasingly confident as the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS), initiated under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, continues to simplify the process of securing property titles. This advancement has significantly reduced the cost, time, and complexity associated with land administration, making it easier for companies to operate with confidence, especially in the agriculture sector.
One of the prominent beneficiaries of this reform is Okomu Oil Plc, a leading agro-allied company in the region. Dr. Graham Hefer, the Managing Director of the company, commended EDOGIS for providing much-needed stability to businesses in the agricultural space. He explained that the digital land administration system ensures that businesses can avoid land disputes, which have historically been a major challenge, particularly for agricultural investors. With clear, government-backed land records, businesses can now easily resolve any ownership disputes by simply referencing EDOGIS data.
Dr. Hefer emphasized that land security is a critical factor for attracting and retaining investors, particularly in agriculture. “A stable land environment is crucial,” he said. “If the boundaries are clearly established, companies don’t have to worry about potential claims or conflicts over land. This creates a secure atmosphere for both large investors and smallholders alike, making it easier to secure financing and build assets.”
The impact of EDOGIS extends beyond large corporations. Small-scale landowners now have the ability to use their land as collateral for loans, increasing their access to financing. This positive feedback loop boosts investor confidence, enhances land value, and strengthens the local economy by making financial institutions more willing to provide loans.
Moreover, Dr. Hefer praised the Edo State Government for its improved business approach, particularly the proactive stance of government institutions in facilitating seamless collaboration with businesses. He highlighted the state’s efforts to streamline the process of obtaining necessary documentation and ensuring that taxes paid by companies are being used for infrastructure development, thereby contributing to a better business environment.
In a separate interview, Imasuen Izoduwa, the CEO of Ughoron Investment Limited, a real estate firm based in Benin City, echoed similar sentiments. Having worked as one of the initial staff members of EDOGIS, Izoduwa referred to the service as a “masterpiece” that has significantly addressed the long-standing land administration issues in the state. His experience with EDOGIS provided him with firsthand insight into how digitizing land records has improved the system.
Izoduwa noted that the governor’s decision to digitize land administration was a strategic move that has revolutionized the sector, stating that the digital approach has streamlined land transaction processes and reduced the administrative burden for investors and landowners alike.
Established by the Edo State Lands Administration and Geographic Information Service Law in 2018, EDOGIS is responsible for regulating land data, managing master plans, and overseeing the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy and other land-related documents. The service also supervises land use allocation and ensures compliance with land transaction laws. With these systems in place, EDOGIS has fostered a sense of security for investors, ensuring transparency and efficiency in property dealings.
