Abuja Property Owners Get 14 Day Grace Period

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has granted a 14‑day extension for property owners in Abuja to regularize their land use and pay a penalty fee of ₦5 million. The decision, announced by Minister Nyesom Wike after the original 30‑day deadline expired, creates a new grace period that begins on 11 November 2025. It applies to owners in the Asokoro, Maitama, Garki and Wuse districts who violated land‑use conditions.

According to a statement by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, the extension is part of the minister’s effort to encourage voluntary compliance before stricter enforcement measures are implemented. Property owners who fail to comply within the 14‑day period will face enforcement actions by the FCT Administration.

The affected properties are located on specific streets in the Federal Capital City, including Gana Street (Maitama District) and Yakubu Gowon Crescent (Asokoro District); Usuma Street (Maitama District); and Aminu Kano Crescent and Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent in Wuse II District.

Earlier, the FCT Administration announced a revised Land Use/Purpose Clause for properties across 15 streets and areas. Owners who changed the use of their land without official approval are required to pay a ₦5 million violation fee and any other applicable charges. To regularize their land use, affected owners must visit the Department of Land Administration with their original title documents and a valid ID to obtain letters of approval for the land‑use change. The Administration will then issue new title documents—including the Statutory Right of Occupancy and Certificate of Occupancy—reflecting the updated use and valid for a new 99‑year term.

This opportunity does not apply to lands or properties previously revoked for reasons such as non‑development or failure to pay ground rent. The extension provides a final chance for owners to comply with the terms and conditions of the land‑use change approval. The FCT Administration’s decision demonstrates its commitment to enforcing land‑use regulations while supporting owners who wish to regularize their properties. With the new deadline in place, owners are advised to act immediately to avoid enforcement actions and further penalties.