Wike Grants 14-Day Grace Period for FCT Ground Rent Defaulters

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved a 14-day grace period for property owners who have defaulted on ground rent payments, following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This decision comes after the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) began sealing off properties over non-payment of ground rent—some of which have been overdue for up to 43 years. The affected properties, totaling 4,794, include those owned by government institutions, corporate organizations, and individuals.

According to a statement released on Sunday, May 26, 2025, by Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Land Administration in the FCT, the reprieve is a result of the President’s intervention to give defaulting property owners a final opportunity to settle their outstanding obligations.

“By Mr. President’s intervention, holders of the affected properties now have 14 days to settle the outstanding ground rents, along with the prescribed penalties,” the statement read.

Penalties vary by district:

Property owners in Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II, and Guzape will pay N3 million in penalties in addition to the ground rent owed.

Defaulters in Wuse I, Garki I, and Garki II will pay N2 million.

Those in the Central Area face a N5 million penalty.

Additionally, individuals who have purchased properties without registering their interests through the mandatory Minister’s Consent and Deed of Assignment have also been given 14 days to complete the process.

Wike warned that failure to comply within the grace period will result in the revocation of property titles. He further urged all property owners in the FCT to ensure prompt payment of all bills and charges to support ongoing developmental projects.

The FCTA emphasized that the enforcement effort reflects its commitment to upholding statutory responsibilities without fear or favour.