The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, has approved sweeping reforms in land administration to promote sustainable urban development and bolster investor confidence within the territory. The new policies, set to take effect on April 21, 2025, introduce stringent timelines and compliance measures for land allottees and developers.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

At a press briefing on April 11, 2025, the Director of Land Administration in the FCT, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, highlighted the major components of the reforms. These include updated processes for issuing Statutory Rights of Occupancy, titling for mass housing projects, and regularizing land documents from Area Councils.

One key reform mandates that allottees must pay prescribed fees, rents, and charges within 21 days of receiving an offer for a Statutory Right of Occupancy. They must also submit the completed Letter of Acceptance and proof of payment within this timeframe. Failure to comply will lead to the automatic withdrawal of the offer, and any late payments will be invalid.

Additionally, allottees will be required to begin construction on their allocated plots within two years of receiving the Statutory Right of Occupancy. This policy aims to combat land speculation, encourage timely infrastructure development, and improve revenue generation for the FCT Administration.

On the regularization of land documents issued by Area Councils, Nwankwoeze explained that only fully paid documents will be eligible for statutory titles within 60 days of notification. Despite receiving over 261,000 regularization requests between 2006 and 2023, only a small fraction have been processed. The reforms aim to streamline this process for more efficient outcomes.

The new reforms also cover the titling of mass housing projects, allowing developers and subscribers to apply for titles starting April 21, 2025, under the new operational framework. The reforms are expected to reduce administrative bottlenecks, curb illegal practices, and expedite development across the FCT.

“These measures will ensure that genuine property owners and investors receive the security of title they deserve and protect the integrity of land administration in the FCT,” said Nwankwoeze. These reforms mark a significant shift in land governance in the capital and are expected to stimulate urban planning, attract investments, and foster growth in Abuja.