Wike Pledges Certificates of Occupancy for Indigenous Residents of Abuja

Wike Moves to Grant Certificates of Occupancy to Indigenous Residents

Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged to grant Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to indigenous residents of Abuja living on their ancestral lands. The commitment aims to address longstanding grievances surrounding land ownership and displacement in the Federal Capital Territory while strengthening tenure security for local communities.

Government Move to Address Historical Land Ownership Concerns

The announcement was made during a thank-you visit by the FCT minister to the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) following recent area council elections.

Wike stated that the initiative is designed to give indigenous communities a formal sense of belonging in the land historically occupied by their ancestors. According to the minister, many native residents have lived for decades without legally recognised titles to their ancestral lands, creating uncertainty around land tenure and increasing vulnerability to displacement.

He emphasised that the FCT Administration intends to correct this imbalance by ensuring that eligible indigenous residents obtain official Certificates of Occupancy.

Recognising Indigenous Communities in Urban Development

Abuja’s rapid urbanisation has historically placed pressure on indigenous settlements within the territory. The expansion of the capital city since its establishment in 1976 led to the relocation of several communities and the acquisition of large areas of land for government infrastructure and urban development.

Wike acknowledged that such processes often left indigenous populations without formal land titles or adequate recognition within urban planning frameworks.

“We must recognise that wherever you go, there are people there,” the minister said while addressing community leaders and residents during the visit.

By granting Certificates of Occupancy, the government aims to integrate indigenous communities more formally into Abuja’s land administration system.

Political Context and Community Engagement

The minister’s visit to AMAC also served as an opportunity to thank residents for their support during the February 21 area council elections. Wike noted that the FCT administration intends to maintain regular engagement with communities as directed by President Bola Tinubu, in order to ensure governance remains responsive to grassroots concerns.

He emphasised that government-community relations should be reciprocal, stating that political leaders must deliver tangible benefits to residents who support democratic processes.

Role of Traditional Leaders and Local Authorities

Traditional rulers and community representatives also raised concerns about land protection and allocation within the territory.

The Sapeyi (Chief) of Garki, Usman Nga Kupi, and other traditional leaders reportedly urged the FCT administration to strengthen measures that protect indigenous settlements and clarify land ownership rights.

In response, Wike reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to addressing land disputes and safeguarding ancestral lands while maintaining balanced development across the territory.

Implications for Land Governance in Abuja

The proposed issuance of Certificates of Occupancy could have significant implications for land governance in the FCT.

A C of O represents the highest form of legal land tenure recognition in Nigeria’s land administration system under the Land Use Act. Granting these titles to indigenous residents would provide legal security of tenure, improve access to property financing, and reduce disputes related to land ownership.

For policymakers and urban planners, the initiative could also serve as a mechanism to formalise land rights while promoting inclusive urban development.

Outlook

If implemented, the planned issuance of Certificates of Occupancy to indigenous residents could mark a notable shift in Abuja’s land administration framework. The policy aims to reconcile urban expansion with the rights of indigenous communities, addressing decades-long concerns about land ownership and displacement.

For the FCT administration, the success of the initiative will depend on transparent implementation, clear eligibility criteria, and effective coordination with traditional authorities and local governments.