Land Use Charge and Property Development in Akwa Ibom State

This research examines the impact of the Land Use Charge on property development activity in Akwa Ibom State, South South Nigeria. The Land Use Charge consolidates various property-related rates and levies, and its administration has been a subject of controversy in several Nigerian states due to concerns about accuracy of valuation, equity across income groups, and resistance from property owners. In Akwa Ibom, a state experiencing real estate growth driven by oil revenue spillovers, the Land Use Charge presents both a revenue opportunity and a potential dampener on property investment. A descriptive design is employed, with primary data from 140 property developers, estate surveyors, and homeowners in Uyo, the state capital. Questionnaires assess awareness of charge rates, perceived fairness of property valuations, experiences with payment, and self-reported investment behaviour. Secondary data from the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Lands and secondary literature are also incorporated. Descriptive statistics and simple regression are used. The study anticipates finding that disputed valuations and perceived inequity in charge computation significantly reduce timely payment rates and deter new property development in certain segments. Recommendations include commissioning an independent mass valuation exercise using current market data, establishing a transparent appeals process for disputed valuations, and gradually phasing in charge increases to avoid market disruption. Keywords: land use charge, property development, Akwa Ibom, real estate, property tax.