Abuja – Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike on Thursday dismissed recent criticism that the allocation of land to diplomatic missions favours foreigners over ordinary Nigerians. Speaking to journalists during a project inspection, Wike said the government’s land‑allocation process is a routine policy aimed at attracting investment and advancing urban development, not a preferential giveaway.
Wike highlighted that media organisations, which have been among the vocal critics, operate as profit‑making businesses that generate revenue from advertising, live coverage and commercial news. He pointed to major broadcasters such as Channels TV and African Independent Television (AIT), noting that their headquarters sit on parcels of land granted by the FCT government rather than purchased on the open market.
“Those who live in a glass house should not throw stones,” the minister said, referencing the outlets’ own benefit from allocated land. “You received land and are not among the poor; why complain now?”
The minister clarified that the FCT does not sell land. Allocation is made on the basis of development agreements, and all recipients—including diplomatic missions—must pay prescribed procedural fees for the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). Wike added that many of the allocations under scrutiny were made by previous administrations, underscoring the continuity of government policy.
Wike warned that allocated land must be used for the intended purpose. He cited the example of Jabi Lake, where parcels earmarked two decades ago for entertainment and tourism projects remained undeveloped and were subsequently reclaimed by the government for new investors. The minister argued that high‑value zones require substantial capital to become world‑class facilities and that reserving such land exclusively for low‑income housing would undermine broader development goals.
“Emotional arguments that land should only go to the poor ignore the reality that significant investment is needed to transform these areas into viable tourist and commercial hubs,” Wike said. He affirmed his administration’s commitment to “stand by the truth” and to prioritize realistic urban development and investment over populist pressures.
The minister’s remarks come amid ongoing debate over land use in the capital, where rapid urbanisation has heightened competition for prime parcels. Analysts note that transparent allocation frameworks and strict enforcement of development conditions are essential to ensure that land grants translate into tangible economic benefits. The FCT government has not indicated any immediate changes to its allocation policy, but it reiterated that all allottees must adhere to the stipulated development commitments.
