Property owners in Abuja who illegally convert residential buildings to commercial use will now pay a fine of ₦5 million and obtain a new Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O), the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced.
The decision affects properties on Gana Street (Maitama), Gimbiya Street (Garki), Aminu Kano Crescent, Ademola Adetokunbo Street (Wuse II) and other locations in the city centre where homes have been converted to offices, hotels, and businesses without approval.
READ ALSO: Wike Warns PDP National Convention May Not Hold
The measure follows recommendations by an ad-hoc committee on the review of land use clauses, inaugurated by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike on August 8.
The committee, chaired by the Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, reported widespread illegal conversions in highbrow districts.
The committee recommended that offenders pay:
- 7.5% of the assessed Capital Value of the property as a land use conversion fee.
- Statutory Right of Occupancy charges based on the new land use.
- 2% extension/merger/subdivision fees, where unapproved alterations exist.
READ ALSO: Wike Confirms Death of FCT Head of Service, Grace Adayilo
Receiving the report on Tuesday, Wike warned that the FCTA would sanction defaulters and, where necessary, revoke land titles to deter future violations.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
