Land Development Act, 1956 (No. 474)

This Act makes provision in matter of land development and, to this end, lays down the institutional framework to be devoted to the elaboration and implementation of projects, programmes and other activities related to land development. The Act consists of the following Parts: (I) Introductory; (II) Federal Land Development Authority; (III) Local Land Development Boards; (IV) Corporations; (V) Regulation and Incorporation of Boards and Corporations; (VI) Loans; (VII) Movable and immovable property; (VIII) General.
Section 3 establishes and further regulates the duties and powers of the Federal Land Development Authority, which shall mainly: (a) undertake and carry out land development projects; (b) promote and assist in the investigation, formulation and implementation of projects for development, settlement and management of land in the Federation; (c) enhance the modernization of the agricultural sector. The Authority shall be subject to the directives of the competent Minister. In particular, a report relating to the activities carried out during the preceding year shall be transmitted annually to the Minister. Moreover, section 7 provides for the establishment of the Land Development Fund. In addition to the Federal Authority, Local Land Development Boards shall be set up in conformity with Part III of the Act. The Authority as well as the mentioned local boards are entitled to make loans. They may also acquire, purchase, take, hold and enjoy movable and immovable property (section 57).