By Ismaila Jimoh, Abuja
There is a strong indication that properties built on the recently revoked 4,794 land titles in the nation’s capital will soon be taking over by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
This was confirmed by the Director of Land, FCTA, Mr. Chijioke Nwankwoeze while briefing journalists after the FCT Executive Committee meeting chaired by FCT Ministet, Barr. Nyesom Wike in Abuja.
He said the Administration is taking over the properties following their forfeiture due to unpaid ground rent exceeding 10 years.
The Minister earlier on Monday approved the revocation of aforementioned land titles after repeated warnings to no fewer than 8,375 property owners who collectively owe ₦6.97 billion in ground rent.
Nwankwoeze listed some of the affected institutions and organizations, including: Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA); Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN); Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); National Universities Commission (NUC); Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPC); Conoil, Borno State Government, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ministry of Environment; and Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company
He emphasized that the affected properties now belong to the FCTA and possession will be taken in due course.
While reaffirming the administration’s stance, Nwankwoeze noted that affected land title holders could appeal to the minister for possible reinstatement.
“Any individual or organization whose title has been revoked can write to the minister for reconsideration. The minister may reinstate the title, attach conditions to reinstatement, or decline the request altogether,” he explained.
He cautioned against blackmail, stressing that affected landowners should seek due process rather than making unfounded claims.
Most revoked titles, he added, are located in Phase 1 districts, fully serviced with infrastructure. He urged landowners in Phase II districts including Gudu, Utako, Mabushi, Jabi, Daki-Biyu, Katampe, Katampe Extension, and Kado to settle their outstanding payments to avoid similar actions.
“If the government has fulfilled its obligation by providing infrastructure, landowners must also play their part. Failure to do so makes city management difficult,” Nwankwoeze stated.
