‘Develop it or lose it’: Key takeaways in new FCT land reforms you should know

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, recently approved a series of sweeping reforms in land administration, set to take effect from Monday, 21 April 2025.

The new policy direction is designed to ensure legally recognised land titles for property owners, boost investor confidence, and promote sustainable urban development.

The Director of Land Administration, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Chijioke Nwankwoeze, who announced the reforms during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, 11 April 2025, said the changes target critical areas such as the granting of Statutory Rights of Occupancy, titling of mass housing, and regularisation of Area Council land documents.

In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at some key takeaways from the new FCT land reforms:

1. 21-Day Payment Deadline for Land Offers

Allottees must complete payment of all prescribed bills, fees, rents, and charges within 21 days. A duly completed Letter of Acceptance and evidence of payment must also be submitted within this period. Offers will be withdrawn if payments are not made within the deadline, and late payments will be considered invalid.

ALSO READ: Minister advocates made-in-Nigeria products to curb importation

2. Two-Year Development Period for Allocated Lands

A maximum of two years is allowed for allottees to develop their land, starting from the date of the Statutory Right of Occupancy. Under the new framework, any land not developed within two years will risk revocation. This measure aims to discourage land speculation and support timely infrastructure development.

3. 60-Day Window for Regularisation of Area Council Documents

Holders of successfully vetted Area Council land documents will have 60 days to make full payment of all required fees to obtain statutory titles. Non-compliance within the stipulated time will render the offer invalid.

4. Mass Housing and Sectional Title Processing Begins 21 April

Subscribers and developers in mass housing estates are to submit applications to the Department of Land Administration for title processing, commencing from 21 April 2025. The new framework aims to correct a long-standing gap in the Mass Housing Programme by issuing titles to current occupants, many of whom have lived in the estates for years without formal documentation.

TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE