Systematic Land Titling Empowers Maiduguri's Urban Poor

The Systematic Land Titling (SLT) project in Maiduguri, spearheaded by the Rehabilitation Empowerment and Better Health Initiative (REBHI) with support from the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC), aims to transform the lives of urban poor by providing official land ownership. Many residents, especially women and families in informal areas like Bolori and Galtimari, previously relied on unverified local agreements, leaving them vulnerable to land grabs and inheritance disputes.

The project began by engaging traditional and religious leaders to build trust, as initial community skepticism stemmed from fears of taxation and land loss. Alhaji Abba Bukar, the District Head of Maisandari, noted that community engagement was crucial in overcoming these fears.

The initiative also collaborates with the Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS) and technical experts to ensure effective implementation. Ms Ajikatu Imam, the Executive Director of REBHI, emphasized that land tenure security is essential for addressing urban poverty and recovery in Borno State.