The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to commence enforcement actions next week against property owners who default on ground rents, Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) fees and land use conversion charges, following approval by the FCT Executive Council (EXCO).
The Director of Land Administration, FCTA, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the first EXCO meeting of the year held on Wednesday in Abuja.
Nwankwoeze said the council reviewed a comprehensive compliance report on outstanding land-related payments and resolved that defaulters would face sanctions, including revocation of land titles, sealing of properties and other lawful enforcement measures.
He explained that in 2025, the FCTA reviewed properties in default across strategic locations such as Aminu Kano Crescent, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Areas 7 and 8 in Garki, among others, where lands allocated strictly for residential purposes were illegally converted to commercial use.
“These were clear violations of the terms and conditions of the grant of Rights of Occupancy,” he said. “However, after assessing the realities on ground and conducting thorough analysis, the FCTA approved the conversions in line with planning standards.”
According to him, letters of conveyance and approvals were issued to affected allottees with specific payments attached, but while some complied, others failed to do so despite repeated reminders and public notices in national newspapers and electronic media.
“After reviewing the compliance rate, council felt there was a need for enforcement,” Nwankwoeze stated. “From next week, the FCTA will begin enforcement actions. Those still in default are hereby advised to comply or face the consequences.”
He stressed that the revenue drive is critical to sustaining Abuja as a world-class capital city, noting that funds generated from ground rents, C-of-O fees and land use conversion charges are essential for infrastructure development and social service delivery.
Recalling similar enforcement actions carried out last year, Nwankwoeze said they yielded significant compliance. “People never expected it, but shortly after, many came forward to pay. That exercise showed that enforcement works,” he noted.
He warned that compliance is continuous, stressing that previous payment does not excuse fresh defaults. “If you paid last year and default again, enforcement will still apply. Whether you are in Phase One or Phase Two districts, owing is owing,” he said.
The director also pointed out that some developed properties still operate without valid Certificates of Occupancy, while others earn commercial income without meeting their statutory obligations to the FCTA.
“Land allocated for residential purposes but converted to banks or offices attracts different charges. You cannot collect commercial rent and refuse to pay what is due to the FCTA,” he added.
Emphasising fairness and transparency, Nwankwoeze said no individual or organisation would be exempt from the enforcement exercise.
“This is a system-driven process. Once your name comes up as owing, it comes up—whether you are a government agency, corporate body, private individual or even a minister’s associate. There are no exceptions,” he said.
He urged residents and property owners to take advantage of the window to regularise their status and support the administration’s vision of a well-planned, well-maintained and globally competitive capital city.
