‘FCT doesn’t sell land,’ Wike explains allocation policy

Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike has hit back at critics regarding the allocation of land to diplomatic personnel, accusing media organisations of hypocrisy for questioning policies from which they have previously benefited.

​In a pointed response to recent criticisms that the government is prioritising foreign diplomats over “ordinary” Nigerians, the Minister argued that land allocation is a standard government procedure designed to drive investment and urban development.

Addressing journalists during a project inspection on Thursday, Wike emphasised that media houses operate as profit-driven businesses rather than charitable organisations.

He noted that these organisations charge for adverts, live coverage, and commercial news to fund their operations and salaries.

​The Minister specifically named major media outlets, such as Channels TV and AIT, stating they currently operate from headquarters built on land allocated by the FCT government rather than purchased on the open market.

​”When you are living in a glass house, don’t throw stones. You were given land, and you are not among the poor, so why are you complaining now?” he stated.

ALSO READ: Nigeria, India push textile sector revival, manufacturing growth

​
​The Minister sought to dispel misconceptions regarding the “sale” of land in the FCT, clarifying that the government allocates land based on developmental agreements.

He said: “The FCT does not sell land; it allocates it based on specific conditions and investment proposals.

​”All allottees, including diplomats, are required to pay procedural fees for the processing of their Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).”

Wike noted that many of the allocations being questioned were made by previous administrations, as the government is a continuous entity.

​The Minister warned that land allocated for development must be used as agreed.

He cited cases where land allocated 20 years ago for entertainment and tourism hubs remained undeveloped and would be reclaimed by the government for new investors.

​
​Wike dismissed the “emotional” arguments that land should only go to the poor, stating that high-value areas require significant investment to transform into world-class facilities and tourist attractions.

​He concluded by vowing to “always stand by the truth,” maintaining that his administration would prioritise realistic urban development and investment over playing to the gallery.