LEGAL ANALYSIS OF LAND ACQUISITION AND USE: IMPLICATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE FOOD AND SURVIVAL IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Land is a fundamental resource for agricultural production, economic development and human survival in Nigeria. This paper examines the legal framework governing land acquisition and use, particularly the Land Use Act 1978 and the 1999 Constitution, and its implications for sustainable food production and human survival. It analyses the powers of government to acquire land for public purposes, compensation for compulsory acquisition, customary land tenure and the challenges of land-use conversion. The paper argues that indiscriminate acquisition and conversion of agricultural land can undermine farmers ‘livelihoods, agricultural productivity and food security, and identifies inadequate compensation, insecure tenure and bureaucratic land administration as key obstacles. It recommends reform of the Land Use Act, improved compensation, recognition of customary rights and stronger environmental regulation, and concludes that equitable land governance is essential to sustainable food production and the survival of present and future generations in Nigeria.