Background of the Study
Land tenure systems refer to the legal and institutional arrangements that govern the ownership, use, and transfer of land. In Nigeria, land tenure systems vary significantly across different regions, influenced by traditional, statutory, and customary laws. In Kano State, the traditional land tenure system, which is characterized by communal land ownership, often conflicts with statutory laws and modern urban planning practices (Ibrahim & Usman, 2023). These conflicts can complicate land acquisition, property development, and housing projects, particularly in urban areas like Kano city, where population growth and urbanization are rapidly increasing.
The impact of land tenure systems on urban housing development is critical to understanding the challenges faced by developers, government agencies, and residents in Kano State. In urban areas, the demand for housing is high due to population growth, but the availability of land for development is constrained by various tenure-related issues, such as land disputes, unclear ownership titles, and bureaucratic delays in land registration (Akinyele, 2024). The shift from traditional land tenure systems to more formalized statutory systems has been slow, which has led to challenges in developing affordable housing and ensuring that land use regulations are followed.
This study aims to investigate the impact of land tenure systems on urban housing development in Kano State, focusing on how these systems influence land availability, property development processes, and housing affordability. The findings of the study will provide insights into the role of land tenure systems in shaping the urban housing market and inform policies to improve housing delivery in Kano State.
Statement of the Problem
Land tenure systems in Kano State are often cited as one of the primary obstacles to efficient urban housing development. The persistence of traditional land tenure practices alongside modern statutory systems creates a fragmented and sometimes contradictory framework for land ownership and use. This fragmentation has resulted in delays in land acquisition, disputes over land ownership, and difficulties in securing financing for housing projects. Moreover, the lack of a unified land tenure system hinders the effective implementation of urban planning policies and the development of affordable housing in the state. Despite various efforts to reform land tenure systems, the issues persist, making it difficult to meet the growing demand for housing in Kano’s urban areas.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the impact of land tenure systems on urban housing development in Kano State, Nigeria. It will explore the experiences of landowners, developers, and government officials involved in urban housing projects. The study will not extend to rural areas or focus on agricultural land. A limitation of the study is the potential for incomplete or biased data due to the sensitivity of land ownership issues in Kano State.
Definitions of Terms