FCT Minister Warns Against Further Delays In Ground Rent Payment, Inspects Key Infrastructure Projects

According to Ireporter Online, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that there will be no further extension for ground rent payments in the FCT. Speaking to reporters in Abuja on Monday after inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects in Wuse and Life Camp, Wike emphasized that previous two-week and Presidential grace periods granted four months ago have long expired, urging defaulters to settle their dues immediately.

Wike stated, “This is the last opportunity for defaulters to pay. It’s unfortunate that many Nigerians who complain refuse to follow the rules. Even with presidential interventions allowing additional time, more than four months have passed. Projects cannot proceed without citizens fulfilling their tax obligations.”

He further warned that officials of the FCT Administration would seal the premises of defaulters, with such properties reverting to the government. “If you have not paid, we will seal up the premises, and the property will become the property of the FCT Administration,” the minister added.

On the infrastructure front, Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress of key projects, including Transit Way N2, linking the Central Business District to Wuse, and the Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from Life Camp Junction to Karmo. Contractors Levante Construction Ltd and Julius Berger assured timely completion, with the N2 road expected by the first week of June 2026 and the N5 road by the end of January next year.

Highlighting the quality of the work, Wike said, “We are very happy with the quality of the job done. The progress is remarkable, and we are confident of timely completion.” He also noted that the Transit Way N2 was funded through emergency allocations, while the Arterial Road N5 will receive sufficient funding in the FCT’s 2025 budget.

Regarding the operationalization of newly commissioned bus terminals, the minister explained that the selection of operators is ongoing. “It’s a contract, and procurement is still in progress. We aim to complete the process by year-end, ensuring all procedures are properly followed,” Wike stated.