Of Lagos and digital transformation in land administration

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IN 2019, Lagos State embarked on a transformative journey by launching the Aumentum Land Administration Solutions, a cutting-edge digital system designed to automate and streamline land records management. This system, which has been adopted by governments around the world, enhances the transparency and efficiency of property transactions while securing land documentation. The Aumentum solution has positioned Lagos State as a leader in the digital revolution of land administration in Nigeria, offering a new benchmark in governance excellence. Before the introduction of Aumentum, land title processing in Lagos was largely manual, resulting in numerous challenges such as misplaced files, fraud, and long delays in processing property transactions. The transition to a digital system has transformed this cumbersome process into a streamlined, secure, and efficient operation. Aumentum allows for the automation of land records, eliminating human error, and ensuring a transparent process that adheres to state regulations. The Lagos State government has progressively embraced digitalization in land administration, beginning with the Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) in 2013 and the electronic Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in 2014. The culmination of this transformation was the 2019 launch of the Aumentum Solution, a system designed to meet the growing demand for land documentation, adhere to global best practices, and support e-government initiatives.

Aluminum offers a suite of tools that have revolutionized land administration in Lagos State: Aumentum Cadastre: This feature integrates a range of survey and cadastral management tools, enabling government agencies to collect and manage property data effectively. It ensures that this data is accessible to the public, improving transparency. Aumentum Registry: The registry system automates the management of land records and facilitates the registration of real estate transactions. By digitizing these processes, Aumentum simplifies land information management and property tax revenue collection, while providing secure title registration for both public and private properties. The system also includes a point-of-sale application that automates the fee schedule, manages financial reporting, and provides seamless customer service.

The introduction of Aumentum has not only streamlined land records management but has also addressed significant challenges related to urban development, land valuation, and geographic information services. This system aligns with global standards, ensuring that Lagos remains at the forefront of land administration technology. Key benefits include: Improved land title security: Digital documentation reduces the risk of falsification and secures land transactions. Enhanced transparency: The system creates a more controlled and transparent environment, reducing opportunities for corruption. Increased revenue mobilisation: Automation of property tax collection has improved efficiency in revenue generation. Reduced human interaction: The digital platform minimises the need for face-to-face interactions, which can reduce bureaucratic delays and inefficiencies. The digitization of land records also supports Lagos State’s broader economic objectives, including its 21st-century economic agenda. By creating a one-stop shop for land inquiries and administration, Aumentum has enabled better collaboration between government agencies and improved service delivery to the public.

As Lagos continues to grow, the need for efficient land administration systems becomes even more critical. Aumentum has laid the foundation for a robust, future-proof system that will serve the state for generations to come. However, sustained investment in both the technology and the personnel required to operate it is essential. Experts have recommended that Lagos State prioritize the following: 1. Investment in skills development*: Personnel involved in land administration must be trained in the use of Aumentum and other geo-information technologies. 2. Standardization across agencies* The state should establish common standards for digital land administration, ensuring that databases are synchronized across various ministries and departments. 3. Ongoing infrastructure improvements* Continuous investment in digital infrastructure will ensure that the state remains a leader in land management. The Aumentum Land Administration Solutions have revolutionized land management in Lagos State, propelling it to the forefront of global best practices. The state’s commitment to digitalization has not only improved the efficiency and transparency of land transactions but has also set new standards for governance excellence in Nigeria. As Lagos strives to maintain its pioneering status, sustained investment in this technology will be critical to ensuring the continued success of its land administration reforms. Lagos’ journey from manual to digital land administration is a model of progress and innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of land management for other states and nations to follow.