Background of the Study
Land use policies serve as a foundational element in guiding regional development and economic performance in Nigeria. These policies determine how land is allocated for agriculture, industry, residential, and commercial purposes, thereby influencing investment patterns, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability (Ibrahim, 2023). In recent years, the Nigerian government has introduced reforms to streamline land use, mitigate conflicts, and promote efficient resource utilization. Proponents of these reforms argue that clear, well-enforced land use policies can stimulate economic activity, enhance property values, and support sustainable growth across regions (Afolabi, 2024). However, the implementation of land use policies has often been hampered by overlapping jurisdictional claims, bureaucratic inertia, and corruption, which result in inefficient land management and underutilized resources (Chinwe, 2023). These challenges are compounded by rapid urbanization and increasing population pressures, which necessitate a rethinking of land allocation strategies to ensure equitable regional development. This study explores the relationship between land use policies and regional economic performance by analyzing policy outcomes, investment flows, and the spatial distribution of economic activities. By identifying both the successes and shortcomings of current land use policies, the research aims to propose actionable recommendations for optimizing land allocation in ways that foster balanced economic growth and sustainable development (Olu, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the potential of land use policies to drive regional economic performance, Nigeria continues to face challenges in ensuring effective policy implementation. Conflicts over land rights, inadequate regulatory frameworks, and corruption contribute to inefficient land allocation and underdevelopment in many regions (Bello, 2023). These issues result in a misalignment between the intended economic benefits of land use policies and the actual outcomes observed on the ground. In many cases, land that could support commercial or industrial development remains idle or is used inefficiently, leading to lost economic opportunities and exacerbating regional disparities. Addressing these issues is critical for unlocking the full economic potential of Nigeria’s regions. This study seeks to identify the structural and procedural barriers that hinder the effective implementation of land use policies and to propose strategies that can improve regional economic performance through better land management (Nwachukwu, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
• To assess the impact of land use policies on regional economic performance.
• To identify barriers to effective land use policy implementation.
• To recommend strategies for optimizing land allocation to boost regional growth.
Research Questions:
• How do land use policies affect regional economic performance in Nigeria?
• What are the key barriers hindering effective land use management?
• Which strategies can improve the alignment between land allocation and economic development?
Research Hypotheses:
• H1: Land use policies have a significant impact on regional economic performance.
• H2: Bureaucratic and corruption challenges impede the effectiveness of land use policies.
• H3: Improved land management strategies can enhance regional economic outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses on selected regions with diverse land use practices. Limitations include regional disparities in policy enforcement and challenges in obtaining reliable land records.
Definitions of Terms:
• Land Use Policies: Regulatory frameworks that determine the allocation and utilization of land resources.
• Regional Economic Performance: The overall economic health and development of a geographic region.
• Land Management: The process of administering and regulating land use to optimize economic and environmental outcomes.
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