By Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is taking a bold step to collect outstanding ground rents, some dating back 30 years, to combat impunity and ensure funds for infrastructure development. Minister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike made this known during a monthly media chat held at his Life Camp Official Residence on Monday.
According to Minister Wike, the FCTA is determined to hold powerful individuals accountable and drive progress in the city. “People had said that FCT was not working and now FCT is working. I’m doing things that they refused to do. I have found out that most of them didn’t have the courage to annoy people, to step on toes,” he said.
The Minister emphasized that the collection of ground rent arrears is essential for providing essential infrastructure in the city. He challenged those complaining about the enforcement to acknowledge and pay up their ground rent arrears, emphasizing that without revenue, essential infrastructure cannot be provided.
This move is part of the FCTA’s efforts to revitalize Abuja and ensure good governance. The administration has been working to address long-standing issues and hold influential individuals accountable. As Minister Wike stated, “I take joy when I step on the toes of big men. Those who say that nothing will happen, I take joy in saying that something will happen. All you want me to do is to take decisions against the poor people, but you the rich man, nothing will happen. Something will happen and that’s why we are getting results.”
In addition to the ground rent collection, the FCTA has announced an ambitious 19-day program to commission completed projects, including the long-awaited International Conference Centre, and flag off new projects to celebrate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second year anniversary. Minister Wike stated that President Tinubu is expected to personally commission some key projects.
The FCTA’s commitment to collecting ground rent arrears and commissioning projects is a significant step towards ensuring the city’s development and growth. With this move, the administration is demonstrating its willingness to take bold action and make difficult decisions to transform Abuja.
Other initiatives by the FCTA include improving mass transportation and security with the provision of bus terminals in Mabushi, Kugbo, and the Central Business District. These terminals will be inaugurated by President Tinubu this month, with budgetary provisions for buses to be run by profiled and registered private operators.
The FCTA is also working to protect the Abuja Master Plan, with Minister Wike lamenting that efforts to implement the plan are often politicized. The administration is committed to inclusivity, with President Tinubu’s administration ensuring unprecedented representation for the FCT’s original inhabitants.
The 19-day event will showcase the FCTA’s progress and commitment to delivering results. As the administration continues to work towards transforming Abuja, residents can expect more projects and initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life.
With the FCT’s 2025 capital budget dedicating 85% to completing ongoing projects and 15% to new projects, the administration is poised to drive growth and development in the city. As Minister Wike emphasized, revenue generation is crucial for infrastructure development, and the FCTA is working to improve its revenue streams.
The FCTA’s initiatives demonstrate its commitment to transforming Abuja into a modern, efficient, and sustainable city. As the administration continues to work towards achieving its goals, residents can expect a brighter future for the city.
