Niger govt warns against transactions, development on Hill Top land

The Niger State Government has warned members of the public, prospective property buyers, developers and estate agents against engaging in any purchase, transfer, subdivision or development of land at Hill Top, Minna, without clearance from the appropriate authorities.

The warning was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Hon. (Barr.) Bello Ahmad Agwara, on Friday, clarifying the status of the land located opposite El-Amin International School and adjoining Hill Top Model School, Minna.

According to the Commissioner, the affected area is under government acquisition for overriding public interest, following the directive of the state Governor, Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.

He explained that the Ministry had concluded a verification and compensation survey of the affected interests in consultation with landowners and community stakeholders, adding that government had approved compensation while payment and formal takeover of the area were ongoing.

Hon. Agwara therefore urged members of the public to exercise caution and avoid entering into any transaction involving the affected land until they obtain the necessary clearance from the Ministry of Lands and Survey and other relevant authorities.

He further reminded the public that under the Land Use Act, the assignment, sublease or other alienation of a statutory right of occupancy requires the prior consent of the Governor.

The Commissioner also stressed that no physical development could commence in urban areas of the state without obtaining the required planning approval from the relevant authorities.

He said the clarification was intended to protect unsuspecting members of the public from possible loss and safeguard the interests of existing claimants while the government concludes the compensation exercise.

Hon. Agwara advised anyone seeking clarification on any parcel within the affected area to conduct the necessary title search and planning verification with the Ministry before making any financial commitment.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Niger State Government to transparent land administration, orderly physical development and the protection of legitimate land interests in the overall public interest.