CRGIA Seeks Stronger Ties with Traditional Rulers to Boost Land Administration in Cross River
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Director General of the Cross River Geographic Information Agency (CRGIA), Mr William Archibong, has urged traditional rulers to work more closely with his agency in strengthening land administration across the state.
Archibong made the call when he led a delegation to the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr and Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana, at the Umor-Otutu Palace during activities marking the 2025 Leboku International New Yam Festival.
The CRGIA boss congratulated the monarch on the successful hosting of the cultural festival and highlighted the agency’s services, which include land allocations, mapping, consultancy, and the issuance of tamper-proof, bankable digital Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) for both statutory and customary lands.
He commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for initiating sweeping reforms that have strengthened CRGIA’s operations, particularly in expanding the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy. Archibong emphasised that decentralising land administration to local government levels would give rural communities easier access to bank loans, increase agricultural productivity, and enhance economic empowerment.
“Land security reduces communal crises and fosters peaceful coexistence. By bringing Certificates of Occupancy closer to the people, we are not only securing land rights but also empowering them economically,” he stated.
In his response, Obol Ofem Ubana welcomed the initiative, noting that Yakurr’s vast land resources stand to benefit greatly from modern land management practices. He praised CRGIA’s efforts in addressing disputes and promoting proper land use.
The DG was accompanied by the Project Coordinator, Cross River Geographic Information System, Mr Jesam Iwara, and the Head of Legal Services, CRGIA, Barr. Kenneth Edet.
The visit, which coincided with the Leboku Festival, reinforced the agency’s commitment to partnering with traditional institutions in advancing land management and expanding access to secure land rights across the state.
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