Family Land: Meaning, Creation and Guiding Principles under Customary Law in Nigeria

Abstract

The different communities and ethnic groups in Nigeria require careful consideration especially when it
comes to disputes over family land which demands legal expertise and strong understanding of customary
law. Using doctrinal research methodology, this paper examined the meaning, creation and guiding
principles of family land under customary law in Nigeria. In addition, usufructuary rights associated with
family land were also discussed. The findings of this paper revealed that under customary law, family land
can be created by inheritance, communal allocation and purchase among several other means. The paper
noted that family land cannot be divided or alienated without the consent of all family members.