The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has taken decisive steps to address issues of land use violations in Abuja by inaugurating two key committees. The first committee will focus on identifying areas in the nation’s capital where the terms of the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) have been violated, while the second will investigate issues between the FCTA and the private estate River Park, located along the airport road in Abuja.
During the inauguration ceremony, Wike expressed concern that commercial and residential areas in Abuja were not properly distinguished, thus violating the master plan of the city. He noted that this was a significant issue, as Abuja’s layout was designed with a specific blueprint to separate commercial zones from residential ones.
Wike also highlighted a recurring problem where letters of intent for mass housing projects were often issued, but the agreements tied to them were frequently violated. He urged the committees to conduct thorough investigations and come up with practical recommendations for corrective measures.
The minister has given the committees a two-week deadline to complete their investigation and present their findings. He emphasized that the committees should carry out their duties professionally and warned that violators of the regulations would face appropriate consequences.
In addition, Wike recently announced that the FCTA would begin sealing properties of owners who have not paid their ground rents as part of ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with land regulations and maintain the integrity of the city’s development plan.
This proactive approach signals the FCTA’s commitment to preserving the planned structure of Abuja and addressing the challenges caused by improper land use practices.
