The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) experienced a significant surge in the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) in 2024, marking a substantial shift in land administration under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike. A total of 5,481 C-of-Os were signed in 2024 alone, a figure that eclipses the combined number issued between 2010 and 2023. This accelerated processing and issuance reflects the minister’s commitment to streamlining bureaucratic processes and aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” of improved service delivery and efficiency in governance. This achievement underscores a renewed focus on transparency and responsiveness within the FCT administration.
The significant increase in C-of-O issuance in 2024 signals a paradigm shift in land administration within the FCT. Historically, obtaining a C-of-O was a protracted and cumbersome process, often taking years and deterring land allottees from completing the necessary payments. This backlog created uncertainty and hampered development within the territory. The minister’s proactive approach has effectively addressed this long-standing issue, simplifying the process and reducing the waiting time to a mere two weeks upon payment completion. This efficiency not only benefits individual land owners but also contributes to a more dynamic and predictable land market within the FCT.
The expedited processing of C-of-Os is a tangible manifestation of the Renewed Hope Agenda’s focus on improving governmental efficiency and responsiveness to citizens’ needs. The streamlined procedures and reduced processing times demonstrate a commitment to cutting red tape and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. This shift aligns with the broader goal of creating a more conducive environment for investment and development within the FCT, ultimately contributing to economic growth and improved quality of life for residents. The administration’s emphasis on efficient service delivery echoes a broader commitment to modernizing governance and building public trust.
Beyond the sheer number of C-of-Os issued, the FCT administration has also implemented technological advancements to enhance transparency and accessibility. The digitization of record-keeping and information sharing, including real-time updates on C-of-O collection status, represents a significant step towards modernizing land administration. The implementation of auto-generated SMS notifications to inform allottees of the readiness of their documents further underscores the administration’s commitment to proactive communication and citizen engagement. These measures aim to eliminate information asymmetry and ensure that land owners are kept informed throughout the process.
A comparative analysis of C-of-O issuance over the past 15 years reveals a stark contrast between the current administration’s performance and that of its predecessors. While a total of 5,655 C-of-Os were produced and signed between 2010 and 2015, the subsequent periods witnessed a significant decline, with only 1,174 issued between 2015 and 2019 and 1,571 between 2019 and 2023. The 5,481 C-of-Os issued in 2024 alone not only surpasses the figures from these previous periods but also signals a renewed focus on efficient land administration. This dramatic increase highlights the effectiveness of the new policies and procedures implemented under Minister Wike’s leadership.
The streamlined processes, coupled with technological advancements and proactive communication strategies, represent a significant stride towards a more efficient and transparent land administration system in the FCT. This transformation not only benefits individual land owners by reducing waiting times and providing greater clarity but also fosters a more conducive environment for investment and development. The FCT administration’s commitment to efficient service delivery and transparency aligns with the broader goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda, ultimately contributing to a more prosperous and vibrant capital territory. The increased issuance of C-of-Os is a tangible indicator of positive change within the FCT, promising a more dynamic and investor-friendly future.
