Wike Vows to Secure Land Rights for Original Inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Wyeson Wike has pledged to grant Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to indigenous communities in the for their ancestral lands, in what many observers describe as a major step toward addressing long-standing land ownership concerns in Abuja.
Wike made the announcement during a thank-you visit to the , where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights and interests of original inhabitants of the FCT. He acknowledged that for decades, many indigenous families have occupied ancestral lands without formal documentation, leaving them vulnerable to displacement, disputes, and compensation challenges.
According to the Minister, the move to issue Certificates of Occupancy will provide legal recognition and security of tenure for indigenous residents. He emphasized that under the leadership of President , the FCT Administration is determined to promote fairness, inclusion, and structured land reforms that will safeguard the future of native communities.
The absence of formal land titles has remained a sensitive issue since the creation of the FCT, with many natives expressing concerns over marginalization and limited participation in land administration processes. By granting C of O documents on ancestral lands, the government aims to reduce land-related conflicts, strengthen community confidence, and promote sustainable development within the territory.
Stakeholders across Abuja are closely watching the development, as implementation details, verification procedures, and timelines will ultimately determine the impact of the policy. If successfully executed, the initiative could reshape land ownership dynamics and redefine indigenous land rights in Nigeria’s capital city.
Read alsoFCT Minister Nyesom Wike Donates 50 Operational Vehicles to Bolster Security
