FCTA announces enforcement campaign in Abuja, targeting defaulters on ground rents, C-of-O payments, and land use fees across the city

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has announced a renewed enforcement campaign targeting property owners who owe government fees, with actions set to begin next week.

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The announcement followed the first meeting of the FCTA Executive Council for 2026, presided over by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday.

Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Land Administration, told journalists that the operation will focus on defaulters of ground rents, Certificate of Occupancy payments, and land use conversion charges.

Measures will include sealing affected properties and revoking land titles to compel compliance.

He highlighted properties originally approved for residential use but later converted to commercial purposes without completing statutory obligations.

Areas under review include Aminu Kano Crescent, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, and sections of Garki Areas 7 and 8, among others.

“The council approved that as from next week, the FCTA will embark on enforcement actions, including revocation of titles, sealing of properties, and all other legal measures necessary,” Nwankwoeze said.

He added that notifications had been repeatedly issued through national newspapers, social media, and public notices, but compliance levels remained below expectations.

Nwankwoeze emphasised transparency, noting that the enforcement mechanism is automated. “There are no exceptions. Once we run a query, whoever owes will be identified. Government bodies, corporate organisations, and private individuals will all be treated equally,” he said.

The director explained that revenue from land charges is critical to sustaining Abuja’s development and infrastructure. “You cannot enjoy the full size of a property and collect rent without meeting your obligations.

This is the only way the administration will continue to provide world-class infrastructure and maintain the city to the standard we all want,” he stated.

Property owners were advised to visit the Abuja Geographic Information Systems or the Land Administration Department to settle outstanding bills to avoid sanctions.

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Since mid-2025, the FCTA has intensified efforts to recover arrears, including revoking 1,095 property titles for non-payment and violations of the Land Use Act.