The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to commence strict enforcement against residents and property owners who violate land use regulations and default on ground rent payments in Abuja.
The decision was part of resolutions reached during the FCT Executive Committee meeting chaired by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, at his official residence in Life Camp.
FCTA to Enforce Land Use and Ground Rent Compliance
Speaking after the meeting, Director of the Department of Lands Administration, Mr. Chijioke Nwankwoeze, stated that the administration had given defaulters sufficient time to comply with its directives.
According to him, the enforcement action became necessary due to continued non-compliance by some residents.
The move signals a renewed effort by the FCTA to strengthen land administration and revenue collection within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Improved Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) Process in Abuja
Providing updates on land documentation, Nwankwoeze disclosed that the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) in Abuja has significantly improved.
He noted that unlike previous years when the process could take several years or even decades, C of O issuance can now be completed in as little as one week.
He explained that once documents are forwarded to the Minister, they are typically signed and returned within two days.
Causes of Delays in C of O Processing
The Director identified key factors responsible for delays in Certificate of Occupancy processing, including:
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Failure to submit passport photographs
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Refusal to accept or decline the offer of Rights of Occupancy within 21 days
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Non-confirmation of Remita payments
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Use of unverifiable addresses such as P.O. Box instead of physical locations
The FCTA urged applicants to ensure full compliance with documentation requirements to avoid unnecessary delays.
FCT Executive Committee Approves Key Projects
During the meeting, three memoranda were presented and ratified by the committee.
Diesel Purchase for Waste Management
The Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Chief Felix Obuah, disclosed that the committee approved N7.3 billion for the purchase of diesel to power waste disposal and management plants in Mabushi, Jabi, Durumi, and Wuye districts.
Procurement of Security Communication Equipment
The Director of the FCT Department of Procurement, Alhaji Musa Idris, revealed that N1,133,802,500 was approved for the supply of communication gadgets and equipment to support FCT security agencies in maintaining law and order.
Support for Flood Victims
The committee also ratified the procurement of food and non-food items for residents affected by flooding in parts of the FCT.
What This Means for Abuja Residents
The enforcement drive is expected to impact:
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Property owners with outstanding ground rent
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Residents violating approved land use
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Applicants delaying C of O documentation
The FCTA’s latest move underscores its commitment to improving land administration, infrastructure support, and security operations within Abuja.
Residents are advised to regularize their land documents and settle outstanding obligations to avoid sanctions.
