FCT Unveils New C-of-O Pricing: N5 Million Now the Norm

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, recently unveiled a significant development in land administration policies during a meeting with estate developers on November 21, 2023, in Abuja. This groundbreaking announcement concerns the cost of issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O), which has been set at N5 million by the FCT Administration. The minister emphasized the importance of this policy change in bringing orderliness and sanity to the land administration system in the FCT.

Wike outlined the payment process, indicating that the N5 million fee for the C-of-O could be settled within four months of land allocation. Subsequently, upon payment completion, the C-of-O would be handed over to the applicant. This move is aimed at streamlining the land allocation process and ensuring that genuine applicants receive their C-of-O promptly.

One notable aspect of Wike’s announcement is his intention to seek President Bola Tinubu’s approval to link applicants’ National Identification Number (NIN) to the C-of-O issuance. This integration is envisioned to enhance the authentication process, adding an extra layer of security and accountability to the land administration system.

Addressing longstanding issues, Wike declared an end to the era where three or more persons were allocated the same plot of land using fake C-of-O. He highlighted the significance of the C-of-O in facilitating legitimate business activities and emphasized that such allocations would no longer be permitted. In his words, “When we make the right decision, some people will be happy, and some will not. The rich will kick against some of our decisions, but anything that will help our people must be done.”

In addition to these policy changes, Wike unveiled measures to ensure the integrity of the land administration system. He promised to instill orderliness and sanity in the processes, acknowledging the importance of making decisions that benefit the people. This commitment to effective land administration is crucial for fostering economic growth and development in the FCT.

Wike also shared concerns about the financial implications of workers’ salaries at the FCT Administration and the Federal Capital Development Authority, revealing that they amount to N8.9 billion monthly. However, he announced with pride that within three months of assuming office, he had managed to save an impressive N110 billion. This significant amount is earmarked for specific projects that will contribute to the overall development of the FCT.

To further enhance the efficiency of land administration, Wike inaugurated a task force on the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy for housing estates and the recovery of land use contravention fees on November 14. The objective of this task force is to ensure that each unit in housing estates possesses its separate C-of-O, promoting transparency and preventing any misuse of land resources.

This move comes as a response to the challenges highlighted by Wike during the task force’s inauguration. He expressed concern that residential areas were being transformed into commercial zones, necessitating corrective action. Those who have contravened the Land Use Act are expected to undergo recertification and pay penalties. Wike pointed out instances where approved residential buildings were converted into commercial structures and vice versa, stressing that the task force includes government agencies responsible for land administration to actively contribute to solving the issues they have inadvertently contributed to.

In conclusion, the recent policy changes and initiatives introduced by Minister Nyesom Wike reflect a proactive approach to addressing longstanding challenges in land administration in the FCT. The focus on transparency, orderliness, and accountability is expected to have a positive impact on the overall development of the territory, fostering a conducive environment for both residents and businesses alike. As these measures take effect, stakeholders will be keenly observing the outcomes and evaluating their contribution to the sustainable growth of the FCT.