Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong warning against officials and landowners failing to comply with regulations in Abuja, vowing to take decisive action against non-compliance with extant laws.
Wike, during a media chat on Sunday night, highlighted the importance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) in driving business growth and economic development.
He stated that his administration was committed to clearing the backlog of C of Os and ensuring businesses have access to the necessary documentations for financing.
Underlining the significant progress his administration has made, Wike revealed that while previous administrations issued about 7,000 to 8,000 C of Os from 2015 to 2023, his administration has already signed 7,000 C of Os in just two years.
He noted that acquiring a C of O gives businesses the right to occupancy, which can be used as collateral for loans, helping them thrive in the competitive market.
Wike also made it clear that he will not tolerate inefficiency or lack of commitment within his team.
“When I identify that you are not willing to work, I will kick you out,” he declared, sharing that he had already made the decision to remove two directors from FCT Administration.
“I don’t give a damn. When I see you’re not working, I will kick you out. Heaven will not fall.”
The minister further expressed frustration over unpaid land fees, including the staggering N300billion owed for Right of Occupancy (R of O) fees, which he argued has been delaying infrastructure development in three FCT.
He stressed that, with increased revenue generation now surpassing N25billion, paying taxes and clearing backlogs were essential for funding the Federal Capital Territory’s growth and development.
“Government gave you land, and you can’t go and pay over 15 to 16 years, what kind of country are we in?” Wike expressed.
