Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has pledged that indigenous residents of Abuja will receive Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) for lands they have traditionally occupied.
The minister made the promise during a thank-you visit to residents of the Abuja Municipal Area Council in Nigeria’s capital city.
According to Wike, granting legal land titles to indigenous communities is necessary to give them a stronger sense of ownership and belonging in their ancestral homeland.
Plan to Address Longstanding Land Concerns
The minister acknowledged that many indigenous families have faced displacement and uncertainty regarding land ownership since the creation of the Federal Capital Territory.
Wike said the administration intends to address the issue by ensuring that those living on ancestral lands are properly recognized through official documentation.
He noted that providing Certificates of Occupancy would strengthen the relationship between the government and host communities across the FCT.
Call for Inclusive Governance
During the visit, Wike emphasized the importance of inclusive governance and recognition of indigenous communities.
According to him, political leadership in Abuja must acknowledge the rights and presence of original inhabitants.
“We must change the pattern of politics in Abuja. Everywhere you go, there are people there, and they must be recognized,” he said.
The minister also said he understands the emotional and cultural attachment communities have to their ancestral lands, stressing that the government will work toward a lasting solution.
Visit Linked to Council Election Support
Wike explained that his visit to AMAC was also meant to appreciate residents for supporting candidates aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the area council elections.
He said the electoral support demonstrated by the community would not be forgotten by the administration.
According to the minister, political relationships must remain mutually beneficial between leaders and the people.
“Relationships should not be one-sided. If you support me, I support you; if you stand with me, I stand with you,” he said.
Tinubu Directs Ministers to Engage Communities
Wike further disclosed that President Tinubu has directed ministers responsible for the Federal Capital Territory to maintain close engagement with residents.
He said the president insisted that government officials must regularly visit communities to understand their needs directly.
The directive, he explained, is part of efforts to strengthen grassroots governance and ensure policies reflect the concerns of ordinary residents.
Effort to Bring Governance Closer to Residents
The minister assured residents that he would continue to interact with communities across the FCT to ensure their concerns are addressed.
He noted that frequent engagement with residents would help the government develop policies that improve living conditions and strengthen local participation in governance.
The plan to issue Certificates of Occupancy is expected to become one of the administration’s key steps toward resolving long-standing land ownership challenges affecting indigenous communities in Abuja.
