Anambra State has given landowners until December 31, 2026, to recertify their old Certificates of Occupancy (C of Os). After this date, the state’s old land administration system will be shut down indefinitely, and holders of unrecertified titles will face restrictions on key land transactions processed through the Ministry of Lands.
The directive, issued by the Anambra State Ministry of Lands, is part of the ongoing transition to the Anambra State Geographic Information System (ANAMGIS) digital platform.
What the Deadline Means
According to the official notice:
- The old land administration system will be shut down indefinitely after 31 December 2026.
- Landowners whose old C of Os have not been recertified and captured in the ANAMGIS database will no longer be able to process certain transactions through the Ministry of Lands.
- Affected transactions include mortgages, Deeds of Assignment, Certified True Copies (CTCs), registration of Powers of Attorney, and other services that require processing by the ministry.
Important clarification: The deadline does not automatically invalidate an old Certificate of Occupancy. The immediate consequence of non-compliance is restricted access to specific land administration services, not cancellation of the title itself.
Who Is Affected
The directive applies to holders of old Certificates of Occupancy that have not yet been recertified or integrated into the ANAMGIS database. Landowners who have already completed recertification and whose records are updated in the new system are not affected.
Why the State Is Implementing This
The recertification exercise is intended to:
- Update and digitise existing land records
- Improve the accuracy and reliability of the state’s land information system
- Streamline future land transactions
- Reduce disputes arising from outdated or incomplete records
Practical Steps for Landowners
If you hold an old Certificate of Occupancy in Anambra State, consider the following steps:
- Confirm your current status
Check whether your title has already been recertified and captured in ANAMGIS. - Gather required documents
Typical requirements include the original or certified copy of the old C of O, survey plan, and other supporting documents as specified by the Ministry of Lands. - Submit your application early
Do not wait until the final weeks of December. Processing times can vary, and last-minute applications may face delays. - Use official channels only
Process the recertification through the Anambra State Ministry of Lands or authorised service centres. Avoid unofficial intermediaries. - Keep records of submission
Obtain and safely store all acknowledgment slips, payment receipts, and correspondence. - Follow up
Monitor the progress of your application and ensure your records are successfully captured in the ANAMGIS database before the deadline.
Recommended Contacts and Channels
Landowners are advised to obtain the latest requirements and forms directly from:
- Anambra State Ministry of Lands (official service centre in Awka)
- The Ministry’s official website or designated ANAMGIS service points
- Verified contact numbers published by the Ministry
Final Thoughts
The December 31, 2026 deadline is a clear call to action for holders of old Certificates of Occupancy in Anambra State. While failure to recertify will not automatically cancel your title, it will restrict your ability to carry out important transactions through the Ministry of Lands after the old system is shut down.
Acting early is the most effective way to protect your ability to mortgage, transfer, or otherwise deal with your property without disruption.
If you own land or property in Anambra with an older C of O, now is the time to begin or complete the recertification process.
Have you started the recertification process, or do you have questions about the requirements? Share your experience or concerns in the comments.
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