Ismail Umar, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has launched the full transition to a digital system for the recertification and issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) and Rights of Occupancy (R of O).
The initiative is aimed at eliminating fraud, curbing counterfeit documents, and safeguarding land ownership records through innovative technology.
Addressing journalists, the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Survey, Barrister Nasiru Aliyu Dantsoho, said that the electronic recertification process, driven by the Sokoto Geographical Information System (SOGIS), will guarantee secure, durable, and verifiable land documents for property owners across the state.
He explained that the new system leverages technology to ensure that property documents are resistant to loss, theft, or destruction.
According to him, the digitally designed certificates have modern security features, including embedded property details, owner’s photographs, and precise geographical locations, making them reliable as collateral for loans and other legal transactions.
“The renewal or recertification of certificates is designed for individuals with old documents and new property owners seeking authentic certificates. The process is straightforward, transparent, and built to protect property rights for years to come,” Dantsoho said.
Highlighting the durability of the new certificates, he added: “The acrylic-based design ensures longevity. Water or any liquid substance can not erase or distort the printed information, and the certificate can withstand handling without compromising its data.”
Barrister Dantsoho stressed that the innovation represents a deliberate shift from analogue to digital systems.
“We are migrating to a modern, technology-driven format that is not only more secure but also improves efficiency in land management. It also allows property owners to enjoy discounts on ground rent payments,” he explained.
He noted that the recertification exercise will cover different categories of property, including private residences, commercial properties, banks, and business structures.
Holders of old certificates and letters of grant are eligible to obtain new digital certificates upon payment of prescribed fees.
“While the process is not compulsory, we strongly encourage property owners to embrace it. Beyond securing individual assets, it will enhance government revenue generation and support the delivery of developmental projects and public services.
“As part of the reform, an annual ground rent has been fixed for property holders within the Sokoto metropolis and environs, including commercial institutions and banks,” he noted.
He further explained that owners of residential certificates would pay N200,000 while holders of certificate of commercial areas would pay N400,000 for the renewal of their Certificates.
He said “Petrol stations category A, would pay 1,000,000 for certificate renewal while those with B and C would pay 750,000 and 500,000 naira respectively for renewal of their Certificates.
“Hotels category A are to pay 1,000,000 naira while holders of certificates for Hotels category B and C are to pay 750,000 and 500,000 naira for renewal of their Certificates respectively,” he stated.
He further stated that, Big time farmers with Commercial Farms lands would pay 250,000 naira for renewal of their Certificates while medium Commercial Farms owners would pay 80,000 naira for renewal of their certificates.
He announced a window of grace for compliance, running from August 11 to December 31, 2025.
During this period, property owners who obtain new certificates will not be liable for backlog payments of accrued ground rents; instead, their records will begin afresh under the new digital land management system.
The Sokoto digital recertification project, spearheaded by Dr. Almustapha Bello, the Lead Consultant, is aimed at harnessing innovation and technology to modernize land administration.
The government hopes to improve transparency, boost investor confidence, and safeguard land assets for generations to come.