Katsina Sets 16-day Deadline For Property Re-certification

The Katsina State Government has issued a 16-day ultimatum for all property owners to secure updated Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) as part of its preparations for the 2026 reform agenda.

The announcement came during a one-day sensitisation event organised by the Katsina Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), where the agency’s Director-General, Ibrahim Tukur Jikamshi, addressed residents and investors in the State.

Speaking at the event, Jikamshi stressed that owning property without proper certification renders it “dead capital,” preventing owners from using it as collateral for loans, investing in business ventures, or accessing other economic opportunities.

He explained that the state has digitised land records through the Geographic Information Service (GIS), ensuring faster, more secure, and transparent processing of C of O applications.

Noting further that the State Executive Council recently approved the new 16-day timeline for issuing C of O certificates, a significant improvement from the previous 20-day processing period. Residents are expected to update their certificates promptly, as older documents will no longer be recognised.

Property owners must also settle outstanding charges, including ground rent, before receiving the new digitised certificates.

Jikamshi further emphasised that the reforms were part of a broader agenda to create a business-friendly environment, promote investment, and enhance economic competitiveness across the state.

He urged residents to take advantage of the government’s support mechanisms, including facilitation services for businesses and streamlined processes for leveraging property assets.

The Katsina State Government’s 16-day directive underscored the urgency of compliance, signalling that all residents and property owners must regularise their holdings to fully benefit from the 2026 reforms and emerging investment opportunities.