Empirical Assessment of Land Information Systems for Land Administration in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study critically examines the adoption, effectiveness, and limitations of the Land Information System (LIS) in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, to evaluate its role in modernizing land administration. Grounded in institutional theory and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the research explores stakeholder awareness, system usage, operational challenges, and the potential impact of full digitalization. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining structured questionnaires and in depth interviews with 100 purposively selected participants, including government officials, landowners, and geospatial experts. Findings reveal low system penetration, with 52.8 % of respondents unaware of the LIS and only 20.8 % using it regularly. Major barriers to adoption include inadequate technical training, poor data reliability, and bureaucratic resistance. Despite these constraints, the LIS demonstrates value in enhancing transparency, accessibility, and the speed of land transactions. The study concludes that a fully digital LIS, supported by institutional reforms and capacity building, could reduce corruption, increase revenue generation, and minimize land related disputes. Policy recommendations include targeted training programs, improved data integration, legal framework updates, and system optimization to ensure wider adoption and long term sustainability.

Keywords: Land Information System, Land Administration, GIS, Digital Transformation, Ebonyi State, Nigeria