Niger State Exempts Religious Sites, Emir’s Palaces, Senior Citizens, and Others from Land Use Charges

Niger State Exempts Religious Sites, Emir’s Palaces, Senior Citizens, and Others from Land Use Charges

By Fly Cable News

The Niger State Government has announced exemptions for places of worship, senior citizens’ homes, correctional facilities, Emir’s palaces, and the residences of elderly citizens from its upcoming land use charges.

Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Barr Maurice Bello Magaji, explained that the government is introducing these charges to improve land administration. He noted that the charges would be based on property assessments, considering factors such as location, purpose, and property type.

This move is part of efforts to consolidate land and property rates in line with the State Revenue Harmonisation Law, aimed at boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and enhancing social amenities.

Despite the new charges, properties such as religious institutions, elderly care homes, correctional facilities, Emir’s palaces, and senior citizens’ residences will remain exempt.

Additionally, the statement revealed that Governor Muhammad Umar Bago has approved an upgrade to the state’s Geographical Information System (GIS), which will improve data management, facilitate land acquisition, and enhance planning, particularly for agricultural lands and house numbering.