FCT Minister Wike Threatens Revocation Over Idle Varsity Land

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the lack of development on land allocated to the University of Abuja, warning that the government will not tolerate underutilized property.

Speaking during an inspection of the EFCC Academy access road in Giri District—situated within the university’s land—Wike criticized the institution for acquiring over 10,000 hectares without visible progress or development.

“This is unacceptable,” Wike stated through his media aide, Anthony Ogunleye. “Why would any university take 10,000 hectares of land without a clear plan or results to show for it?”

He emphasized that the value of a university lies in its infrastructure, not in the size of its landholding. Many universities across the country, he noted, operate on significantly smaller land but deliver better impact through developed facilities.

The minister cautioned that the FCT Administration would reclaim and reassign any portion of land that remains undeveloped, reiterating that land allocation must serve public development, not be hoarded.

Wike also drew attention to unused land allocated to the Nigeria Police in the same area and expressed optimism that ongoing road construction would catalyze development by surrounding landowners.

While inspecting other projects, including the 15-kilometre Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) to Wassa—handled by China Geo-engineering Corporation (CGC)—the minister praised the quality and speed of construction, expressing confidence that the projects would be completed in time for the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration.

“Our government is committed to finishing every project it starts,” Wike affirmed. “There is no room for abandonment. Every contract awarded must be completed and put to use.”