Abstract

The land acquisition process is critical in Nigeria’s construction sector, influencing the success and timely completion of projects. This paper examines the complexities surrounding the Land Use Act of 1978, Nigeria’s primary legislation governing land ownership and use. The act’s bureaucratic bottlenecks, high registration costs, and failure to integrate customary land tenure systems have posed significant challenges for construction projects. Additionally, the process of land acquisition in Nigeria, particularly its impact on sustainable construction practices, is explored. While the Land Use Act has centralized land administration and aimed to ensure equitable access, its implementation has led to delays, increased costs, and disruptions in project execution. The paper also discusses how the act has both hindered and facilitated the adoption of eco-friendly materials and green building designs, providing a framework for the improvement of sustainable practices in Nigeria’s construction industry. Recommendations for streamlining land acquisition, introducing incentives, and engaging stakeholders are proposed to overcome the challenges posed by the act and promote sustainable development