Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to seal off properties of individuals and organisations that have failed to pay their statutory ground rents, warning that non-compliance undermines Abuja’s infrastructural development agenda.

Speaking during his monthly media chat in Abuja yesterday, the former governor of Rivers State lamented the failure of property owners to comply with a directive issued by President Bola Tinubu in May this year, which gave defaulters a two-week ultimatum to settle their debts. Despite the grace period now extending beyond three months, many have reportedly refused to pay.

“You should know what I’m going to do next,” Wike declared, adding: “I thank God the President said two weeks, we are at more than three months. That is Nigeria for you. Very soon, we are going to seal up all those properties. I am going to seal them up.”The minister emphasised that such revenues were critical to financing essential infrastructure and public services in the federal capital city.

In preparation for the FCT’s 50th anniversary in February 2026, Wike announced the Native Abuja Project, designed to rejuvenate key urban spaces. He also revealed that during President Tinubu’s planned visit to China in November, the FCT would sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Chinese construction firms, CGC and ECC, to address persistent issues with street lighting.

“We’ve insisted that contractors not only install, but also maintain streetlight infrastructure for four to five years -without asking for additional payment. This new strategy ensures sustainability and puts an end to the endless cycle of vandalism and non-functional equipment,” he explained.

Additionally, Wike disclosed the construction of three youth-focused sports centres – one in Bwari and two within Abuja city – to foster youth engagement and development.

Responding to criticisms that his administration has not engaged with stakeholders, the minister insisted that the FCTA has held consultations across all six area councils, directly influencing key decisions like the creation of the FCT Service Commission and approval for a new university in Abuja.

He criticised the National Assembly members representing the FCT for what he described as their inaction in lobbying for special intervention funds.