Business

HOW TO HANDLE LAND DISPUTES IN NIGERIA BY DENNIS ISONG

Published

3 years ago

October 16, 2023

HOW TO HANDLE LAND DISPUTES IN NIGERIA BY DENNIS ISONG

Land disputes in Nigeria refer to conflicts and disagreements that arise among individuals, communities, or entities over the ownership, possession, use, or boundaries of land and real property within the country’s territory. Land disputes in Nigeria are not uncommon due to factors like population growth, urbanization, and unclear land ownership records. These disputes often involve issues related to land boundaries, land grabbing, inheritance, and more.

Steps to Legally Handle a Land Dispute in Nigeria:

Consult an Attorney

Seek legal counsel from a qualified attorney experienced in land and property law. They can provide tailored advice and represent you in court if necessary.

Gather Documentation

Collect all relevant documents, including land titles, survey plans, deeds, and any agreements related to the land.

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

In many cases, parties can opt for mediation or ADR methods, such as negotiation and arbitration, to resolve the dispute without going to court. These methods are generally faster and less costly.

File a Lawsuit

If ADR fails or is not an option, you may need to file a lawsuit in court. Your attorney will help you prepare the necessary legal documents and evidence.

Court Proceedings

Land disputes are typically heard in state High Courts. Be prepared for court hearings, cross-examinations, and the presentation of evidence.

Adhere to Legal Timelines

Be aware of statutory limitations and deadlines for filing land dispute cases to ensure your case is not dismissed due to delays.

Court Judgment
The court will make a judgment based on the evidence presented and applicable laws. The judgment may include orders for compensation, eviction, or a declaration of rightful ownership.

Enforcement of Judgment
If you win the case, you may need to take further legal steps to enforce the court’s judgment, such as obtaining a writ of execution.

Appeal (if necessary)
Either party may choose to appeal the court’s decision if they believe there were legal errors in the judgment.

Seek Legal Advice Throughout
Continuously consult your attorney for guidance at each stage of the process, as land disputes can be protracted and complex.

Explore Community Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
In some rural areas of Nigeria, traditional and community-based dispute resolution mechanisms may still be in place. These can involve tribal leaders or community elders. It’s essential to understand and respect local customs and traditions while seeking resolution.

Land Title Verification
Verify the authenticity of land titles and other documents related to the disputed land. In some cases, fraudulent documents can lead to disputes, and exposing such fraud can strengthen your legal position.

Engage Expert Witnesses
Depending on the complexity of your case, consider hiring expert witnesses, such as surveyors or land valuation experts, to provide professional opinions and bolster your arguments in court.

Land Use and Regulatory Compliance
Ensure that the disputed land complies with local land use regulations and zoning laws. Non-compliance could impact the outcome of your case.

Stay Informed About Land Laws
Land laws in Nigeria may change or evolve over time. Stay informed about any updates or amendments to land-related legislation that may affect your case.

Documentation and Record-Keeping
Maintain meticulous records of all interactions, correspondence, and evidence related to your land dispute. Well-organized documentation can be a valuable asset in court.

Consider Settlement Offers
During the legal process, parties may engage in settlement negotiations. Evaluate any settlement offers carefully with the guidance of your attorney to determine if they are fair and acceptable.

Patience and Persistence
Land dispute resolution can be a lengthy and emotionally draining process. Maintain patience and persistence, and trust your legal team to navigate the complexities.

Compliance with Court Orders
If the court issues specific orders or directives, make sure to comply with them promptly. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences.

Post-Resolution Measures
After the dispute is resolved, take steps to secure your land rights, such as updating land titles and ensuring the property is protected against future disputes.

Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS.He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041

Bank

Atlantian Crown Bank Rebrands as Arizona Global Bank LLC, Begins Licensing for Global Expansion

Published

2 hours ago

May 12, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Atlantian Crown Bank Rebrands as Arizona Global Bank LLC, Begins Licensing for Global Expansion

_By AGP News

*UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS* — In a move signaling a push into international markets, the Royal Throne of the United Kingdom of Atlantis on Sunday announced the corporate transformation of Atlantian Crown Bank LLC into *Arizona Global Bank LLC*, as part of a wider restructuring to position the institution for global banking and financial innovation.

The announcement was made at a press conference in the UKA capital by *HRM Queen Amb. Cletus C. Leaticia*, Chief Executive Officer of the newly named bank. She told reporters the rebranding marks _“more than a name change”_ and reflects a strategic pivot toward digital finance, cross-border investment, and modern banking standards.

_“This transformation represents our commitment to innovation-driven banking and our vision to become a globally competitive financial institution,”_ Queen Leaticia said.

*Licensing Process Underway*

According to the Department of Financial Administration and Corporate Affairs, which issued the official communication, Arizona Global Bank LLC has formally begun the process of applying for a *Banking Operational Licence* under UKA’s financial regulatory framework.

Once licensed, the bank plans to operate as a modern financial enterprise focused on four pillars:

1. Innovation-driven banking and digital financial solutions

2. Corporate financing and structured investment services

3. International financial partnerships and cross-border trade facilitation

4. Financial inclusion initiatives

Bank officials stressed that the institution will _“maintain strict compliance with all banking regulations and supervisory standards”_ set by UKA financial authorities.

*Strategic Shift Amid Global Ambitions*

Management described the rebranding as part of a broader restructuring initiative to _“strengthen the bank’s international identity, expand its global financial footprint, and align operations with contemporary banking standards.”_

Representatives called the licensing and rebranding process a _“major milestone”_ aimed at supporting economic growth, international trade, and cross-border investment initiatives.

*No Disruption to Existing Commitments*

Addressing potential concerns from clients and partners, management reassured stakeholders that _“all existing institutional commitments, operational objectives, and long-term strategic plans remain fully intact throughout the transition process.”_

The Royal Throne indicated that further updates on the licence approval, commencement of operations, corporate partnerships, and investment programmes will be released through official UKA and Arizona Global Bank LLC channels.

_The Department of Financial Administration and Corporate Affairs, Royal Throne of United Kingdom of Atlantis, issued the official statement._

Bank

Fidelity Bank grows Gross Earnings by 45.6% for FY 2025

Published

3 hours ago

May 12, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Fidelity Bank grows Gross Earnings by 45.6% for FY 2025

Lagos, Nigeria – Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading Nigerian financial institution, has announced its audited financial results for the year ended 31 December 2025, reporting Gross Earnings growth of 45.6% from N1.04 trillion in 2024 to N1.52 trillion in FY 2025, reflecting stronger topline momentum across core business segments.

The Group recorded a Profit Before Tax of N347.7 billion. This performance was underpinned by a 38.7% year-on-year increase in interest income to N1.11 trillion (FY 2024: N803.1 billion) and a 44.7% year-on-year rise in fees and commission income to N113.4 billion (FY 2024: N78.4 billion).

On the balance sheet, total assets grew by 18.6% year-on-year to N10.46 trillion (FY 2024: N8.82 trillion), while customer deposits increased by 16.1% year on year to N6.89 trillion (FY 2024: N5.94 trillion), reflecting continued franchise strength and growing customer confidence in the brand. Net loans and advances declined by 2.4% year-on-year to N4.28 trillion (FY 2024: N4.39 trillion) as customers paid down on their mature obligations.

The Bank also strengthened its capital position during the period, with eligible capital rising to N561 billion, above the regulatory minimum of N500 billion for banks with international authorisation. In addition, capital adequacy remained robust, with Capital Adequacy Ratio of 30.94 percent as at 31 December 2025 (FY 2024: 23.47 percent).

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Business

ALIKO DANGOTE FOUNDATION’S FORGES PARTNERSHIP WITH ISLAMIC DEVELOPMENT BANK

Published

5 hours ago

May 12, 2026

Sahara Weekly

ALIKO DANGOTE FOUNDATION’S FORGES PARTNERSHIP WITH ISLAMIC DEVELOPMENT BANK

Ms. Zouera Youssoufou, Managing Director & CEO of Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) in company with Mr. Ahmed Iya, Head of Community Engagement & Polio Eradication of ADF visited Dr. Rami Ahmad, Vice President (Operations) of the Islamic Development Bank at IsDB Headquarters in Jeddah.

The delegation used the occasion to highlight the activities of the Foundation so far which made great impact on people of all races by enhancing opportunities for social change through strategic investments that improve health and wellbeing, promote quality education, and broaden empowerment opportunities for individuals and communities.

Dr. Rami also expressed his expectation of a good and rewarding partnership between the two organisations, as many member countries of the IsDB face pressing debt challenges that constrain their investments in people and livelihoods.