VIP Property Owners in Abuja Owe Over N300bn in C of O Fees – Wike

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has revealed that VIP property owners in Abuja owe more than N300 billion in outstanding Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) fees, calling for urgent settlement.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), revealed that owners of VIP properties in Abuja owe more than ₦300 billion in unpaid fees for Certificates of Occupancy.

During a media gathering at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, on Sunday night, Wike emphasized the substantial revenue shortfalls resulting from these debts.

He highlighted that his administration’s vigorous efforts to increase revenue have resulted in significant financial improvements since he took office in August 2023.

The minister reported that the Federal Capital Territory’s monthly revenue collections have risen from about ₦9 billion to an average of ₦25 billion. Notably, in December 2024 alone, the FCT generated more than ₦40 billion.

Wike credited the revenue increase to more rigorous enforcement of ground rent collections and landowners’ payments for Certificates of Occupancy. He emphasized that these actions are essential for maintaining development in the capital city.

The minister additionally disclosed that the FCT government allocates ₦13 billion each month for salaries, highlighting the necessity of sustaining a strong revenue base to fulfill financial commitments and support ongoing projects.

Wike stated, “We receive less than N13 billion from VAT and the 1% provided by the Federal Government. Therefore, we need to supplement our internally generated revenue (IGR) in order to afford salaries given the recent wage increases.”

When I arrived, we were generating between N9 billion and N10 billion. Today, by the grace of God, our monthly generation is at least N25 billion.

“Our aggressive revenue efforts have led to significant achievements. In fact, just last month we generated over 40 billion naira, which supports our infrastructure initiatives.”

He questioned, “It must come from taxes. Without tax payments, how can we achieve development?”

“Can you honestly say that the FCT is justifying the revenue or taxes you’re paying? Yes, it’s accurate. We can confidently claim we’re working towards it, but it’s still not sufficient,” he added.