Wike Clarifies Misconceptions on Abuja Land Ownership: “C of O Doesn’t Mean You Own the Property”

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has addressed growing public misconceptions about land ownership in Abuja, particularly surrounding the Golf Course property. Speaking during a televised interview with ESET TV, Wike made it clear that the Golf Course remains under public ownership and has not been sold or privatized.

He clarified that holding a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) does not equate to full ownership of a property. Instead, it grants specific rights and serves as a legal document for usage, but not outright ownership. Wike emphasized that government institutions, including universities and agencies, are issued C of Os to safeguard public lands and prevent encroachments — not to transfer ownership.

Wike pointed out that the FCT administration operates an investment company which allocates land and issues C of Os to support regulated development and protect public interest.

He said, “We’re still the owners of the Golf Course; it’s not privatized. Some of you may have heard the view that because the government gave you a C of O, it means that the property belongs to you, No. The government has set up agencies like universities. The government gives universities a C of O to protect the property. Even us in Abuja, we own an investment company; we give them land and give them a C of O.”

His remarks are part of a broader effort to reinforce the government’s role in managing Abuja’s land assets responsibly, ensuring they serve public and developmental interests rather than becoming tools for private takeover.