Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reclaimed 7,000 hectares of land from the University of Abuja, reducing the institution’s landholding in the Giri District from 11,000 to 4,000 hectares.
Speaking during the commissioning of newly constructed access roads in the area, Wike accused the university of illegally acquiring and fencing off large portions of land without proper documentation.
“The university allocated 11,000 hectares to itself—without approval, without documents. I said it won’t happen. They were already fencing everywhere, and soon they would have begun selling off the land,” Wike stated.
Following this, the minister directed the FCT Director of Lands and relevant agencies to formally allocate only 4,000 hectares to the university. The remaining land, he said, would be repurposed for planned infrastructure and development projects within the district.
Wike emphasized his administration’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure to stimulate growth and improve residents’ quality of life. He disclosed that plans are underway to begin internal road construction within the district.
“Now that we’ve opened up access, I’ve directed the FCDA and relevant agencies to work on the internal road network. Within a year, this place will look completely different,” he assured.
The minister also revealed intentions to collaborate with the National Assembly to establish new educational institutions in the area. He pledged the FCT Administration’s full support in providing land to accelerate these initiatives.
Wike further announced that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Academy, located within the district, would commence operations immediately following the completion of the access roads.
“They can now bring in equipment and start full operations. This development will attract others to invest and build in the area,” he said.
Underscoring the importance of infrastructure in attracting investment, Wike promised to provide essential amenities—including roads, water, and electricity—to support future growth.
“Often, land is allocated without basic infrastructure, and that discourages development. We’re committed to reversing that trend by ensuring the necessary facilities are in place,” he concluded.
