Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has addressed the ongoing land reforms, including the regularization of Area Council land titles.

Wike emphasized that the Supreme Court’s ruling, which states that all land within the capital belongs to the FCT Administration, must be adhered to. He reassured landowners that the FCTA is committed to regularizing current allocations and providing Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).

“The Supreme Court has ruled that all land belongs to the FCT, so there’s no such thing as Area Council land. We’re not canceling allocations but are instead working to regularize them so that landowners can obtain their C of O,” he said during a media briefing in Abuja.

Wike also stressed the importance of timely payment of fees and the development of allocated lands to prevent land speculation and ensure proper use of land.

On the development of the Maitama II District, the Minister confirmed that work would continue and reminded land allotees in the FCT to pay the necessary fees, reiterating that land in Abuja is not free.

Regarding the Abuja masterplan, Wike urged patience, explaining, “The masterplan is meant to preserve the city’s original design.” He emphasized that any illegal developments, like those in Kpaduma, Asokoro, would be dealt with, and illegal structures interfering with road construction would be removed.

The Minister made it clear that he would not hesitate to take down any structure that goes against the Abuja masterplan.