The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced the consideration of strict penalties against property owners who violate land use regulations in Abuja, including a ₦5 million fine and a 7.5 percent conversion levy on properties that the owners have illegally altered.
The measures come after recommendations of a special committee set up to investigate violations of the Land Use Act was adopted. The committee, chaired by Muktar Galadima, Director, Development Control, indicated that many titleholders have converted properties from residential to commercial or mixed-use properties without the necessary approvals. Major areas of infractions include estates on Ademola Adetokunbo Street, Aminu Kano Crescent, Yakubu Gowon Street, Gana Street, and parts of Garki and Wuse. The estimated value of the properties involved is over ₦1.03 trillion to date.
According to the new regulations, property owners found in violation of the laws must pay the ₦5 million fine within 30 days after being informed. For the owners who have changed the use of their property without the necessary approval, they must also pay a levy of 7.5 percent of the assessed capital value of property within 30 days. The committee indicated that for properties that have illegal extensions, mergers, and subdivisions, owners must pay a charge of two percent on the capital value of the assessed property. Title holders of property would also be required to pay statutory Right of Occupancy fees associated with their new land use classification.
The FCTA has indicated that defaults would invoke severe consequences which included sealing off properties, demolition of illegal structures, cancellation of titles, and disposal of cancelled titles of land to create revenue for the federal government. According to the minister, these measures are not intended as punishment, but as a corrective action and policy aim to restore order to land administration in Abuja.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to end the long-standing culture of disrespect for land use regulations and to promote compliance. He has indicated that many property owners act like they can convert residential properties to commercial properties for profit. As a result, the proper urban planning for the capital territory has suffered. “This is non-negotiable. Defaulting property owners must pay both the penalties and the conversion fees. If the defaulting owners do not comply, we will cancel the title and sell the property. Either way, we will get the funds needed to make a capital investment,” the minister reiterated.
In addition, the FCTA has directed owners of undeveloped plots in the Central Business District and other designated areas to develop the plots or the plots would be cancelled within three months. In addition, the administration has taken steps to resolve disputes in estates like River Park and established a transitional management committee that would oversee title regularization, security, and dispute resolution.
The new policy represents a significant change in Abuja’s land governance structure and signals the FCTA’s willingness to enforce compliance to strengthen urban planning and raise revenue for infrastructure capital investment. With the 30-day compliance period now commenced, affected property owners have been advised to act urgently to avoid having their land titles revoked and losing their investment.