The Prospects and Limitations of Adoption of Community Land Trusts for Rural Development in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the prospects and limitations of adopting Community Land Trusts (CLTs) as a participatory land and housing model for rural development in Benue State, Nigeria. Using a mixed-methods design, quantitative data were collected from 338 respondents across conflict-affected communities, complemented by six key informant interviews with policymakers and housing experts. Descriptive findings showed a predominantly youthful population (51.2% aged 18-34), a slight female majority (54.4%), and a high incidence of displacement (76%), underscoring the urgent need for sustainable and community-based housing solutions. Awareness of CLTs was generally low (70.7% disagreed they knew the concept), yet respondents expressed openness to their principles, particularly community participation (54.8% agreement) and affordability potential (39.4% agreement). A multiple regression model revealed that CLT-related perceptions accounted for 4.2% of the variance in housing outcomes (R² = 0.042, p = 0.046). Only one predictor, “land tenure customs may limit CLT adoption”, was statistically significant (β = -0.179, p = 0.001), indicating that entrenched customary land systems remain a major barrier to feasibility. Thematic insights reinforced the need for legal reform, institutional support, and extensive sensitisation before CLTs can be effectively implemented. The study concludes that while CLTs hold conceptual promise for affordability and community stewardship, their practical adoption in Benue State requires alignment between formal law, customary tenure, and community-based governance frameworks.