The Managing Director of Powell Homes and Shelters Limited, Chibuikem Onyekachi, has commended the Enugu State government for its transformative Land Use Regulation 2025 and Executive Order No. 1, which designate several areas in the state as urban zones.
Onyekachi described the initiatives as game-changing measures that will boost property values, attract investments, and drive economic growth across Enugu State.
Governor Peter Mbah signed the regulation and executive order last Thursday, declaring it a milestone for land administration in the state. According to the governor, the move aims to streamline land transactions, eliminate hidden charges, and enhance transparency within the Enugu State Land Administration System.
The executive order designates Enugu-East, Enugu-North, and Enugu-South local government areas entirely as urban zones. Other local councils, such as Udi, Nkanu-West, Nkanu-East, and Nsukka, have also been designated urban areas in full. In addition, several parts of other local government areas, including Aninri, Ezeagu, Igbo-Etiti, Igbo-Eze North, Igbo-Eze South, Isi-Uzo, Oji-River, Udenu, and Uzo-Uwani, were also marked as urban zones.
The governor highlighted the significance of the regulation, noting its potential to tackle corruption and inefficiencies in land transactions. “A lack of transparency feeds corruption. This regulation ensures clarity and eliminates hidden charges in land applications. It is a major step toward enhancing the state’s revenue and creating an environment conducive to business,” Mbah said.
Addressing journalists in Enugu, Chibuikem Onyekachi praised the regulation as a catalyst for economic empowerment. “This bold initiative will significantly increase property values and provide residents with better access to essential resources. By enabling property owners to secure Certificates of Occupancy, it removes a significant barrier to economic opportunities,” he said.
Onyekachi explained that Certificates of Occupancy would enable property owners to access loans and other credit facilities, promoting entrepreneurship and spurring economic growth in the state. “The ripple effect of this policy cannot be overstated—it fosters trust in the system, encourages investment, and creates a sustainable framework for development,” he added.
The Managing Director also lauded the administration’s focus on transparency and efficiency, emphasizing that the regulation addresses longstanding issues such as double allocations and land-grabbing. “This is the visionary leadership we need to attract investors and establish a development-friendly environment. It sets an example other states should emulate,” he said.
Onyekachi expressed optimism that public awareness campaigns promised by the administration would ensure residents understand the new processes. He urged property owners and stakeholders in the real estate sector to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the regulation, particularly in securing Certificates of Occupancy to safeguard their investments.
Reaffirming Powell Homes’ support for the state government’s initiatives, Onyekachi stated, “We are committed to collaborating with Governor Mbah’s administration to develop sustainable housing solutions for Ndi Enugu. Our goal is to help create a state where property ownership translates to prosperity and security for all.”
This landmark regulation is anticipated to usher in a new era of urban development and economic growth in Enugu State, setting a precedent for other states across Nigeria.
