Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed that all land within the Abuja territory legally belongs to the FCT Administration (FCTA), in line with a Supreme Court ruling.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Friday, Wike emphasized that there is no such thing as “Area Council land” under the law, noting that the administration would not revoke existing allocations but will instead regularize them to ensure landowners receive valid Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).
“The Supreme Court has made it clear—every land in the FCT belongs to the FCTA,” he said. “We’re not canceling previous allocations, but we’re insisting on regularization so landowners can be issued their C of O.”
The minister urged allottees to promptly pay required fees and commence development on their land to discourage speculation and promote efficient land use. He reiterated that “Abuja land is not free” and warned that the administration would take necessary action against defaulters.
Wike also announced continued development plans for the Maitama II District and addressed concerns about potential changes to the Abuja masterplan. He urged residents to be patient, assuring them that any adjustments would respect the city’s original design.
“The Abuja masterplan is to keep the city as it was envisioned,” Wike said. “We won’t compromise on this. Illegal structures, such as those in Kpaduma, Asokoro, will be removed to make way for planned road construction and other infrastructure.”
He concluded by stating that the FCT Administration will not hesitate to demolish any developments that violate Abuja’s masterplan, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to law, order, and sustainable urban planning.
