The Nigerian government has intensified efforts to recover unpaid ground rent fees in the capital city of Abuja, with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike directing officials to immediately identify property owners who have defaulted on payments since 2014. The move aims to bolster infrastructure development in the nation’s capital through stricter enforcement of housing tax regulations.
Speaking during the inauguration of two committees tasked with resolving land disputes at the River Park Estate and curbing violations of Nigeria’s Land Use Act, Wike criticized the prolonged non-compliance with payment deadlines. A notice issued on June 2 had initially given property owners two weeks to settle outstanding ground rents – annual fees paid to the government for land use – dating back a decade. However, three months later, authorities say many remain delinquent.
“We can no longer delay enforcement,” Wike stated, hinting at potential penalties such as fines or property seizures. “Funds from these payments are critical for improving Abuja’s roads, utilities, and public services. Without timely revenue, we cannot implement projects outlined in the recently approved 2025 budget.”
President Bola Tinubu had earlier signed off on the FCT’s annual budget, which earmarks funds for urban development. However, the minister stressed that meeting these goals hinges on recovering owed revenues. “Directors overseeing land administration, development control, and urban planning must prioritize this task,” he added, singling out agencies like the Abuja Geographic Information System to expedite data collection on defaulters.
The crackdown reflects broader challenges African cities face in balancing rapid urbanization with fiscal sustainability. Abuja, home to over 3.6 million residents, has grappled with unauthorized constructions and delayed infrastructure projects amid population growth. Analysts note that improved tax compliance could help fund critical upgrades, though enforcement has historically been inconsistent.
While the government has not specified the total amount owed, ground rents in Abuja typically range based on property size and location, with commercial entities often paying higher rates. Officials hinted that updated payment guidelines and digital tracking systems may follow the current recovery drive.
For now, the focus remains on compiling what Wike called a “definitive list” of defaulters, signaling stricter oversight of land use policies in Nigeria’s administrative hub.
