FCT MINISTER’S INSURANCE OF CERTIFICATES OF OCCUPANCY SEEN AS ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT- MEDIA AIDE

By Zainab Bakare

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has taken significant steps not only to enhance infrastructural development but also to economically empower Nigerians, according to his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and New Media, Mr. Lere Olayinka.

Speaking during a news briefing in his office on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, Mr. Olayinka highlighted the issuance of over 5,000 Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to land allottees in the FCT within the past year as a testament to this commitment.

“The issuance of such a large backlog of C of Os aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and will significantly contribute to the economic empowerment of Nigerians,” Olayinka stated.

He emphasized the economic impact of possessing a C of O, noting its potential to unlock financial opportunities. “When you have your C of O, you can leverage it to secure loans for your business or engage developers to build on your land,” he explained. “Previously, people hesitated to pay because those who had paid were not receiving their documents. Now, the trust is being restored as payments lead to timely issuance.”

Olayinka revealed that under Wike’s leadership, land allottees can now receive their C of Os within two weeks of payment, a significant improvement compared to the years-long delays experienced in the past. “This builds trust and encourages more people to regularize their land ownership,” he added.

Addressing allegations of land grabbing, Olayinka assured the public of transparency, stating that the names of C of O recipients would be published in national newspapers. Additionally, the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) will send automated SMS notifications to inform recipients when their documents are ready for collection and confirm when they have been collected.

Since assuming office in August 2023, Wike has signed and issued 5,481 Certificates of Occupancy. The Media Aide described this achievement as a significant milestone in promoting trust and economic growth in the FCT.

“Having a C of O not only represents land ownership but also opens doors to economic opportunities for individuals and the nation. The Minister’s actions reflect his commitment to ensuring that governance translates to tangible benefits for the people,” Olayinka concluded.