Nigeria TV Info 

Wike Grants Land Titles, Waives Fees for FCT Traditional Rulers

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has approved the allocation of land titles to traditional rulers in the FCT, alongside a full waiver of statutory fees tied to the properties.

The announcement was made during a meeting with members of the FCT Council of Traditional Rulers in Abuja, where the minister formally presented land allocation documents to the monarchs. The initiative, according to Wike, is part of broader efforts by the federal government to strengthen ties with indigenous communities and recognize their historical ties to the land.

Wike disclosed that the fee waiver was granted following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the need to honor and support traditional institutions. He noted that it would be unfair to require traditional rulers—many of whom represent communities that predate the creation of the FCT—to pay for lands they have long occupied.

Highlighting the role of traditional rulers in governance, the minister commended them for maintaining peace and stability, particularly during recent area council elections, which he described as the most peaceful in the territory’s history. He stressed that their contributions to conflict resolution and grassroots leadership remain invaluable to the administration.

In addition to the land allocations, Wike pledged further support to the traditional institution, including the provision of utility vehicles to enhance their mobility and effectiveness in carrying out official duties.

The Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers, the Ona of Abaji, expressed appreciation to both the president and the FCT administration, assuring continued collaboration in promoting peace and development across the territory.

The move underscores ongoing efforts by the federal government to integrate traditional leadership structures into modern governance while addressing longstanding concerns over land ownership and indigenous rights in the FCT.