Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Nyesom Wike, has stated that the significant reforms in land administration in the FCT are aimed at combating land speculation and accelerating the development of the nation’s capital.
Speaking shortly after inspections of key infrastructure projects in Abuja Tuesday, Wike indicated that the reforms are designed to discourage individuals from holding onto land allocations for speculative purposes, often waiting for market appreciation before selling.
He also stated the importance of timely development and payment to ensure the efficient allocation and utilisation of land resources.
He said, “We are trying to stop land speculators. Somebody who says he wants land in Abuja but cannot develop it in two years …that’s land speculation. Secondly, if you have been given allocation, you should be able to pay within 21 days to have your C of O. What is wrong with that? That’s also to generate funds for the government.”
Addressing concerns regarding the 21-day deadline for the payment of associated fees for the issuance of C of O, Wike questioned, “Why would you not pay your fees within 21 days? What is wrong with it? There is nothing wrong. You cannot apply for land and then you don’t have money to pay for the C of O. It doesn’t make sense. 21 days is enough.”
He also said the FCT minister possesses the authority to implement reforms without the need for additional enabling legislation.
Speaking on his observation of all the projects sites he visited, the FCT minister expressed satisfaction with the progress of work on the projects, including the 15-kilometer Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) connecting Apo and Wasa Districts, the Mabushi Bus Terminal, and the Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) and its interchanges linking Jahi to the Kubwa/Zuba expressway and Jabi/Utako Districts.