In a decisive step towards reforming the land administration system within Nigeria’s capital territory, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the constitution of specialized vetting teams to review and regularize land allocations issued by the six Area Councils of Abuja. The move, which underscores the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, marks a significant milestone in resolving long-standing issues surrounding land titling in the FCT.
The announcement was made by the FCT Director of Land Administration, Mr. Chijioke Nwankwoeze, during the official inauguration of the vetting teams in Abuja on Friday. Nwankwoeze stated that the teams were formed under the minister’s directive, with a clear mandate to accelerate the regularization process and provide legal backing for thousands of landholders.
The primary objective of the newly formed vetting teams is to sanitize the process of land allocations, especially those related to mass housing schemes. Over the years, thousands of residents have faced challenges in obtaining Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) and other legitimate title documents due to administrative bottlenecks, incomplete documentation, and unverified claims.
“The Minister has given us the political backing to ensure this process is thorough, fair, and concluded within a reasonable timeline,” said Nwankwoeze. “This approach will bring resolution to the age-long challenges related to the titling of mass housing plots and deliver long-awaited land titles to thousands of subscribers.”
According to the Director, all subscribers under various mass housing initiatives will now be properly captured, evaluated, and issued individual titles—a move that will provide legal clarity and unlock real estate value for homeowners.
Abuja’s land allocation system has faced criticism over the years for lack of transparency, fraudulent practices, and inconsistent record-keeping. With this latest initiative, Wike’s administration aims to address these issues head-on and restore public confidence in the system.
Nwankwoeze explained that the vetting process will focus on authenticating allocations issued by Area Councils, many of which have been marred by duplications, conflicting claims, and overlapping boundaries. He emphasized that the government is committed to resolving these irregularities in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
As the process commences, Nwankwoeze called on developers and prospective titleholders to cooperate with the vetting teams to ensure a smooth, efficient exercise. He reassured stakeholders that the FCTA remains dedicated to effective service delivery, promising that all vetted cases would be treated with fairness and urgency.
“This is a bold, irreversible step toward restoring sanity in Abuja’s land management. The vetting process will not only help protect genuine landowners but will also deter fraudulent land speculators,” Nwankwoeze added.
He further reiterated the minister’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption in land administration, warning that any official found sabotaging the process would face disciplinary measures.
Analysts have hailed the development as a crucial step toward unlocking the full potential of Abuja’s real estate sector. The issuance of verifiable land titles is expected to boost investor confidence, encourage development in underutilized areas, and facilitate access to financing for property owners.
Industry experts say the initiative could trigger a wave of economic activity, particularly in the housing and construction sectors, if implemented effectively.
“This effort will improve Abuja’s urban planning landscape, encourage private sector investments, and foster greater public trust in government institutions,” said urban development consultant, Aisha Bello.
With the launch of the vetting teams, stakeholders are optimistic that Abuja is on the path to resolving its land title crisis. However, success will largely depend on transparency, speed, and fairness throughout the vetting process.
Wike’s proactive approach has sent a clear message that land reforms in the FCT are not only necessary but are now being prioritized with political will and administrative backing.
As the process unfolds, residents, developers, and investors will be watching closely to see if this initiative lives up to its promise of restoring order and integrity to Abuja’s land title system.