Thesis Abstract

Land tenure systems play a critical role in shaping land use patterns, resource management, and socio-economic development in many regions, including Nigeria. This research project focuses on the land tenure system in Nigeria, specifically in the Ikeduru Local Government Area (L.G.A) of Imo State, with a case study of Owerri Municipal Council. The study aims to examine the existing land tenure arrangements, their implications on land governance, and the challenges faced by stakeholders in these areas. The research adopts a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods to gather comprehensive insights into the land tenure system. Qualitative data will be collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis to understand the historical evolution of land tenure, customary practices, and policy frameworks governing land tenure in the study area. On the other hand, quantitative data will be collected through surveys to assess land ownership patterns, land distribution, and tenure security issues. The study will explore the various forms of land tenure systems present in Ikeduru L.G.A and Owerri Municipal Council, including traditional/customary, statutory, and informal arrangements. By examining the characteristics of these tenure systems, the research aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each system and their impact on land access, land rights, and land use management in the study area. Furthermore, the research will investigate the role of key stakeholders such as traditional authorities, government institutions, land developers, and community members in shaping the land tenure system. By analyzing their perspectives, conflicts, and interactions within the land governance framework, the study seeks to identify opportunities for improving land tenure security, resolving disputes, and promoting sustainable land management practices. The findings of this research are expected to provide valuable insights for policymakers, land administrators, and community leaders to enhance land governance, strengthen tenure security, and promote equitable access to land resources in Ikeduru L.G.A and Owerri Municipal Council. By understanding the complexities of the existing land tenure system and addressing the challenges identified, this study aims to contribute to the sustainable development and socio-economic well-being of the communities in the study area.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

Land Ownership. … If the state of African women’s studies is as bad as these and other authorities suggest, … Taking the case of the Igbo, for instance, scholars have ….. Mbaise consisting of three local government areas (Aboh, Ahiazu and Ezinihitte) was ….. examination of ‘Widowhood Practices’ in Imo State Nigeria. in Igbo communities of South-eastern Nigeria propels the locals to explore the …… Smallholder cooperatives in the study area are independent organisations ….. Cases of family and kindred disputes over land heightened. … Owerri Municipality doubles as both a separate counciland the state capital where the.State Local Government Areas Abia: Aba North, Aba South, Arochukwu, Bende, Ikwuano … IdeatoNorth, Ideato South, Ihitte/Uboma, Ikeduru, Isiala Mbano, Isu, Mbaitoli, … Orsu, Oru East, OruWest,Owerri–Municipal, Owerri North, Owerri West, Unuimo. ….. (c) the establishment of research centres for agriculturalstudies; and.