Nigeria is taking a significant leap forward in land administration by announcing a blockchain-backed land registry system, set to launch in Lagos. This system is designed to streamline land transactions, eliminate fraud, and increase transparency. Spearheaded by the Lagos State Government and a consortium of local technology firms, this project aims to transform the city’s property market by implementing blockchain’s decentralized, tamper-proof technology.

Blockchain, the digital ledger technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, is renowned for its security and transparency. For Nigeria’s land registry, blockchain will record each property’s ownership, title deeds, and full transaction history in digital form, also known as “digital twins.” This tamper-proof system will allow land transactions to be publicly verifiable and secure from fraudulent alterations, which have long plagued the region’s property transactions.

The blockchain-based land registry will be rolled out in phases over the next 18 months, giving authorities and stakeholders time to adapt. By digitizing and securing property records, the system is expected to attract more local and international investment in Nigeria’s real estate market. With faster title verification and reduced transaction costs, the land registry overhaul is seen as a step toward a more efficient property sector.

Despite these advancements, implementing blockchain for land transactions comes with challenges, including technology investment and public awareness campaigns. As Lagos leads this initiative, the city may set a model for other African nations, contributing to more secure and transparent property ownership systems across the continent.