Federal Government Warns Of Mass C-Of-O Revocations Over Unpaid Ground Rents

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has issued a 60-day ultimatum to holders of Federal Government Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to settle outstanding ground rents and statutory charges or face the revocation of their titles. The directive was delivered during the 29th Conference of Directors of Lands in Abuja. Dangiwa warned that non-compliance has already resulted in the loss of trillions in revenue for the Federal Government.

The Minister stressed that such losses can no longer be tolerated under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, as the government urgently requires these funds to support critical development initiatives.

“Several owners of Federal Government titled properties have failed to meet their obligations for years, depriving the government of much-needed revenue. If payments are not made within 60 days, we will revoke their titles,” Dangiwa stated.

He also addressed reports of residents’ associations obstructing ministry officials from carrying out billing and enforcement duties in various estates, warning that those who fail to comply with the terms of their C of O would face strict penalties.

He also highlighted ongoing land reforms, including a landmark partnership with the World Bank to register and title land parcels nationwide.