Wike signs 26,272 Certificates of Occupancy in Abuja in three years

In a significant move to streamline business operations and boost economic activity, the administration of President Bola Tinubu has issued a remarkable 26,272 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, within the last three years. This figure represents a substantial increase, surpassing the total number of signatures collected over the previous 13 years by an additional 17,575.

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To aid the ease of doing business in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a total of 26,272 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) have been signed by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, since the President assumed office.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the FCT, has personally signed these certificates as part of the government's commitment to the 'Renewed Hope Agenda.' This agenda prioritizes enhancing the ease of doing business within the territory. The accelerated issuance process ensures that land allottees can now receive their documents within two weeks of completing necessary payments, a stark contrast to previous lengthy delays.

Historically, previous administrations issued far fewer C-of-Os. During President Goodluck Jonathan's five-and-a-half-year tenure, 5,500 certificates were issued. Subsequently, President Muhammadu Buhari's eight-year administration saw 3,197 certificates signed. The current administration's output of 26,272 in just three years highlights a dramatic shift in administrative efficiency and focus.

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This is against a total of 8,697 produced and signed between 2010 and 2023.

Crucially, many of the beneficiaries of these newly issued certificates had received their land allocations more than a decade ago but were unable to obtain their official titles. A Certificate of Occupancy is vital as it serves as reliable collateral for securing commercial loans, mortgages, and capital for business expansion. The inability to obtain these documents has been a significant hurdle for small and medium-sized businesses, restricting their access to essential funding.

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During the five and a half years of President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, a total of 5,500 Certificates of Occupancy were issued and signed, while 3,197 were issued and signed during the eight years of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, emphasized that the FCT Administration under President Tinubu has streamlined the process. This efficiency is expected to unlock economic potential for numerous property owners who have long awaited their official titles, thereby fostering greater investment and growth within Abuja.

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Many of the allottees who are beneficiaries of the 26,272 Certificates of Occupancy produced and signed by the FCT Administration under Wike received their allocations more than 10 years ago.