In a major development push, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reclaimed 7,000 hectares of land from the University of Abuja in the Giri area of the capital.
Speaking during the official commissioning of a new access road in the district, Wike revealed that the university had originally laid claim to 11,800 hectares a figure unsupported by valid documentation. Following a formal review, the FCT Administration confirmed the university’s ownership of 4,000 hectares, while the rest was taken back for future use.
“We’ve got to be honest with land management,” Wike said. “You can’t just lay claim to land without proper approvals.”
New Road to EFCC Academy Commissioned
The event also marked the unveiling of a newly constructed access road linking the community to the EFCC Academy, a key facility that will house cybercrime training hubs and law enforcement research centers.
According to Wike, the road will ease movement for residents and staff while paving the way for swift development around the academy. He praised the contractor for delivering the project ahead of schedule and promised more projects would soon follow.
Infrastructure Expansion on the Horizon
Wike directed agencies under the FCT Administration to begin work on internal road networks, electricity, and water supply across Giri and neighboring areas. He assured residents that within the next 12 months, significant transformation would be visible.
“We’re not stopping here. This is just the beginning. The next phase will cover all the essentials roads, lights, water everything a functioning community needs.”
Crackdown on Illegal Land Use
Sounding a note of warning, Wike made it clear that the era of unregulated land occupation is over. He urged institutions, developers, and individuals to ensure their land holdings are backed by legitimate documentation.
“If your land isn’t properly approved, don’t expect us to look the other way. We’re cleaning house,” he declared.
Presidency Applauds the Move
President Bola Tinubu, represented at the event, praised the FCT’s renewed focus on inclusive development and infrastructure equity. He described the land recovery and road project as part of a broader mission to ensure that no community in the capital is left behind.
“We must spread development to all corners of Abuja. Every district matters,” the President said.
With this assertive move, the FCT Administration appears poised to not only reclaim underutilized land but also to transform neglected zones into hubs of progress.
