AKWA IBOM STATE UNIVERSITY JOUNAL OF ARTS

This paper seeks to explore the effects of land administration and internal migration on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja over the past four decades, from 1976 - 2020. The study reviews the literature on land administration and internal migration in Abuja, as well as identifies key factors influencing them, and assesses widely-varied effects on the Federal Capital Territory, including increased economic opportunities and improved access to public services, while internal migration has had the effect of populations’ redistribution as well as creating new social and political challenges. The study employs both primary and secondary sources of data for its analysis. The primary data is collected through oral interviews, In-depth discussions with local decision-makers, and field visits. The secondary data sources used for this study include the National Population Commission, officials of land registry records, government documents, and GIS mapping software. The result reveals that existing land administration policies have had positive effects on the economic growth and prosperity of the Federal Capital Territory. However, land administration policies have been seen to have relatively little effect on the redistribution of populations within the FCT. Internal migration, on the other hand, has resulted in the redistribution of populations and increased social and political tensions within the FCT. In conclusion, the study has shown that land administration and internal migration have both had significant impacts on the FCT from 1976-2020. Land administration policies have been effective in promoting economic development and improving access to public services, but have been relatively unsuccessful in addressing population distribution. Internal migration has led to population redistribution but has also increased social and political tensions. Going forward, it is important for the FCDA authority to find effective ways to manage the effects of land administration and internal migration to promote economic development and ensure social harmony. The findings of the study can be used to inform future policies in land administration and internal migration.

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