The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is tightening the noose around thousands of property owners in Abuja who have failed to settle their annual ground rent dues, a legal obligation under Nigerian land tenure laws.
Over 3,000 property holders, including major federal institutions, state liaison offices, and foreign embassies, are on the verge of forfeiting their land titles as a final grace period winds down. The ultimatum, which lapses on Monday, June 16, 2025, marks the end of a 14-day window offered after a presidential intervention.
According to the FCTA, these rents have gone unpaid for years, and the debt has now grown to nearly ₦24 billion. Following an earlier enforcement drive in May, where high-profile buildings were sealed, the President stepped in to grant a short grace period for defaulters to comply.
But as the clock runs out, officials say the consequences are clear: titles will be revoked, and certificates withdrawn, in line with the law.
Some of the foreign missions named in the list have denied owing anything, while others say they were never officially notified. Despite this, the FCTA insists the public notice issued earlier this month serves as sufficient warning.
Authorities say several defaulters have since rushed to pay, but many others remain at risk. Once the deadline passes, the city may witness another round of enforcement, only this time, it could mean permanent loss of land rights.