The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning that lands in Abuja will face potential revocation if landowners fail to settle their substantial outstanding ground rents, collectively amounting to a staggering N34 billion.
During a working visit to his office, Wike made this pledge to members of the House of Representatives Adhoc Committee to Investigate Mass Transportation Failure in Nigeria.
The minister cautioned allottees who owed the Administration ground rents to pay up or have their land revoked and redistributed to those who could.
His words: “I have calculated the debt of non payment of ground rent, which is about N34 billion and I am going to collect all of those back. I don’t care all I want is for the rent to be paid.
“We will be publishing on Thursday for all those who are meant to pay their ground rent. They will be given the grace of two weeks to pay.
“Whoever doesn’t pay, I’ll revoke it and give it to whoever will pay so that the necessary services will be rendered. People want to live in a beautiful city but don’t want to pay their dues which is impossible.”
Governor Wike’s stance on collecting the N34 billion in outstanding ground rents, analysts say, underscores the FCT administration’s determination to bolster its revenue streams. These funds have the potential to be allocated toward vital infrastructure projects, including road construction, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and public services. Ultimately, this investment will contribute to an improved quality of life for residents of the FCT.
Beyond revenue generation, the minister’s action shines a spotlight on the importance of responsible land ownership and effective urban planning in the FCT. By revoking lands held by individuals or entities that have defaulted on their ground rent payments, the government can regain control of underutilized or misused land parcels.
