AN APPRAISAL OF THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN ENHANCING SECURITY OF TITLE IN NIGERIA LAND TRANSACTIONS

The security of land titles in Nigeria has long been a critical challenge, with issues such as fraudulent transactions, multiple claims to the same land, and inefficiencies in the registration process undermining investor confidence and economic development. Despite the existence of statutory frameworks like the Land Use Act 1978 and various state land laws, these challenges persist, often due to bureaucratic delays, inadequate record-keeping, and limited integration of modern technologies in land administration. This study aims to appraise the role of technology, particularly digital registration systems and emerging tools like blockchain and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), in enhancing the security of land titles in Nigeria. It seeks to identify how technological interventions can improve transparency, reduce fraud, facilitate efficient land transactions, and strengthen the protection of private and customary land interests. A doctrinal research methodology was employed, involving an extensive review of primary legal sources, including the Constitution, Land Use Act, relevant state land laws, and judicial decisions, complemented by secondary sources such as scholarly articles, policy documents, and case studies. Comparative insights from other jurisdictions, including Ghana and the United Kingdom, were also incorporated to contextualize the Nigerian experience. The findings reveal that technology-driven initiatives, such as digital land registries and electronic issuance of certificates of occupancy, have significantly improved record accuracy, accessibility, and verification processes. Blockchain and GIS applications offer additional opportunities to secure land records against manipulation, ensure traceability of transactions, and integrate spatial and ownership data for effective land management. However, challenges such as limited technical capacity, infrastructure constraints, and resistance to change remain barriers to full adoption. The study concludes that integrating technology into land administration in Nigeria holds substantial promise for enhancing title security, promoting investor confidence, and supporting sustainable land governance. It recommends that federal and state governments prioritize digital reforms, develop supportive legal frameworks for blockchain adoption, and provide capacity-building programs for land administration officials to fully realize these benefits.