In a decisive move to enforce compliance with land regulations, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has revoked 4,794 land titles due to non-payment of ground rent spanning over a decade. This action targets properties in some of Abuja’s most affluent districts, including Asokoro, Maitama, Wuse I and II, Garki I and II, Guzape, and the Central Area.
According to the FCT Administration (FCTA), a total of 8,375 property owners have defaulted on ground rent payments, accumulating arrears amounting to ₦6.97 billion as of the end of 2024. Despite multiple public notices and reminders issued since 2023, many allottees failed to fulfill their financial obligations, prompting the revocation in accordance with Section 28(5)(a) and (b) of the Land Use Act .
The FCTA emphasized that ground rent is a statutory requirement, payable annually on the first day of January without demand. The non-compliance by property owners, particularly in high-end areas, undermines the revenue base essential for infrastructural development within the capital territory.
In a bid to encourage compliance, the FCTA has granted a 21-day grace period to property owners who have defaulted for less than ten years. Failure to settle the outstanding dues within this period will result in the revocation of their land titles as well .
Minister Wike reiterated that the administration’s objective is not to seize properties but to ensure that landowners meet their obligations, thereby facilitating the development and maintenance of the FCT’s infrastructure. He noted that while many elites diligently pay taxes on their overseas properties, they often neglect similar responsibilities within Nigeria, a practice he described as detrimental to national development.
The FCTA’s firm stance serves as a reminder to all property owners of the importance of adhering to statutory obligations, highlighting the government’s commitment to enforcing compliance and promoting equitable development across the Federal Capital Territory.
