…Gives FG ultimatum to review workers’ wages before 2027

The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, has accused the Federal Government of deliberately excluding Nigerian workers from the formulation and implementation of the new tax laws, warning that policies crafted without labour’s input were inflicting hardship and deepening poverty.

Ajaero faulted what he described as the government’s contradiction of shutting out workers from meaningful engagement on tax reforms, only to later accuse them of “agonising” over national economic policies they neither designed nor influenced.

He made the remarks yesterday in Abuja at the 85th birthday celebration and public presentation of the memoir of a former President of the NLC, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, titled ‘Organise, Don’t Agonise’.

Speaking in line with the central philosophy of the book, Ajaero said sidelining the organised voice of labour amounted to designing policies on “shaky and exclusionary foundations,” inevitably leading to social crisis and economic agony, as currently being experienced across the country.

According to him, organised labour had repeatedly drawn the government’s attention to fundamental shortcomings in the new tax laws but was ignored, noting that any tax regime that imposed heavier burdens on workers and the poor could not be described as progressive.

He stressed that if the government was determined to proceed with the implementation of the new tax laws, it must equally demonstrate readiness to improve workers’ welfare, particularly through an upward review of wages ahead of the next statutory National Minimum Wage negotiations scheduled for 2027.

“It is from this standpoint that we must speak directly to the Nigerian Government,” Ajaero said.

“The philosophy of Organise, Don’t Agonise also implies that the state has a duty to engage, not enrage. There is an urgent need for deeper, more sincere, and structured engagement with the trade union movement at all levels.”

He insisted that policies ranging from fuel pricing to taxation, wages and social services must be developed with the active and respected participation of those who represent workers and the broader masses.

“Policies, from fuel pricing to taxation, from wages to social services, must be crafted with the active, respected input of those who represent the workers and the broader masses,” he said.

“To sideline the organised voice of labour is to design policies on shaky, exclusionary foundations, destined to generate crisis and agony as is being witnessed currently.”

Ajaero described the new tax laws as a “poignant example” of the failure of government to engage stakeholders and adhere to due process, alleging that Nigerian workers and the masses, who constitute the largest group of taxpayers, were deliberately excluded from the Presidential Committee on Tax.

“From the Presidential Committee on Tax, which Nigerian workers were deliberately excluded from, we knew that the workers and masses were going to be on the menu,” he said. “We said so and alerted the nation. Even during the legislative processes, we warned of the dangers, but no one listened.”

According to him, the outcome of that exclusion was now evident in laws that made workers and the poor worse off.

“Today, the result is clear; laws with serious alterations directed at making workers and the poor poorer have become the outcome,” Ajaero said.

“A tax law that imposes heavy burdens on workers and the poor is not progressive. A tax law that taxes the national minimum wage is not fair. Taxing the masses who are living in excruciating poverty is regressive.”

He maintained that organised labour saw nothing wrong in suspending the current approach to the tax reforms to allow for proper reconsideration and redirection.

Ajaero also used the platform to demand the immediate and full constitution of the board of the National Pension Commission (PENCOM), while calling for clarity and restraint in the implementation of the tax laws.

“We demand, as Comrade Sunmonu would have, that the Federal Government immediately and fully constitute the PENCOM Board and address the concerns of Nigerians regarding the tax law, instead of the present grandstanding,” he said.

“Insisting on going ahead is akin to muddling along in confusion and darkness, since we do not even know which version of the law is truly operational.”

He warned that persisting on the current path posed serious risks to tax administration and Nigeria’s democratic stability.

“This dangerous pattern seriously undermines the tax administration itself and indeed our democracy,” he said.

Concluding, the NLC president called on the Federal Government to draw lessons from Sunmonu’s legacy by shifting from policies that inflict hardship to inclusive governance that prioritises economic justice.

“Let this celebration of a life spent organising inspire a new chapter,” Ajaero said.

“Let the government move from agonising the people to organising with them. Let us build a democracy that delivers not just political freedom but economic liberation, where the wealth of the nation serves the welfare of its people.

“It is on this note that we once again call on the Federal Government to urgently address the wages of Nigerian workers before the next statutory negotiation of the National Minimum Wage.”

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has approved the establishment of a Nigerian Army Training Depot (NATD) in Amasiri community, Afikpo North Local Government Area, as part of efforts to tackle security challenges in the state.

The announcement was made when the governor received a senior delegation of the Nigerian Army, led by Major General Oluremi Fadairo, General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, alongside stakeholders and traditional rulers from Afikpo.

“Our discussions focused on strengthening security collaboration and advancing strategic development in Ebonyi State,” Nwifuru said.

He added, “I am pleased to announce that Amasiri in Afikpo North LGA has been approved as the host community for the new Nigerian Army Training Depot. Following extensive consultations, the people of Afikpo granted their consent for the state government to allocate the land and issue a Certificate of Occupancy to the Nigerian Army. With all approvals now in place, groundwork is expected to commence immediately.”

The governor noted that the project would stimulate economic activities, create employment opportunities, attract federal infrastructure, and enhance security in Ebonyi State. He also highlighted its role in strengthening civil–military relations, promoting national integration, and boosting the state’s profile within Nigeria’s security architecture.

“This milestone complements other strategic federal investments in Ebonyi State, including the ongoing construction of the Nigerian Navy School in Oferekpe Agbaja, reinforcing our state’s position as a destination for national institutions,” Nwifuru said.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to national security and inclusive development, and expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army, the people and traditional institutions of Afikpo, and all stakeholders whose cooperation made the project possible.

Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed condolences and sorrow over the devastating fire incident that occurred at the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, on December 24, 2025.

Three brothers of Anambra descent who were involved in the fire lost their lives during the incident.

The brothers who were described as businessmen plying their trade in the affected facility include Mr. Steve Onyeka Omatu (40), Mr. Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Mr. Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37), all of the Omatu family of Uzoakwa Community in Ihiala Local Government Area.

A statement made available  to journalists in Awka by Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, quoted Soludo as commiserating with all families who lost loved ones in the inferno.

The statement read: “The governor regrets that this catastrophic event, which transformed what should have been a joyous Christmas Eve into a night of unspeakable tragedy, has left numerous hearts heavy with grief.

“The Governor is particularly devastated by the loss of three sons of Anambra State. These industrious young men, who were simply striving to earn an honest living for their families, have been taken from us in the most tragic circumstances. Their loss represents not just a family tragedy but a collective loss to Anambra State.

“Governor Soludo wishes all affected families the strength to bear and recover from their irreplaceable losses, while praying that the souls of all the departed rest in perfect peace.

“He also called on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and ensure that appropriate measures are put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.”

Aburime added that the governor commended the response of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire Service, and all other emergency responders who he said worked tirelessly to rescue victims and contain the situation.

“The governor advised Anambra citizens residing in Lagos and other parts of the country to always prioritise human life and personal safety over recovering property and goods in the event of a fire outbreak.”

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia

The Governor of Abia State has revealed that it will soon commence payment of arrears of gratuities of 16 billion naira owned workers by successive administrations since 2001.

The Governor who broke the cheering news while addressing journalists during the November edition of his monthly media chat tagged; “Governor Otti Speaks to Abians”.

The governor explain that the payment would start gradually because of the humongous amount involved until it is completed,

He reitereted that government, after listening to the yearnings of members of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) and well meaning Nigerians, has decided to start the payment since government is continuum.

Otti disclosed that government would soon revisit the report on EndSARS protest with a view of addressing the injustices that were done then.

He announced that the electric buses ordered from China has started arriving the state, adding that before the end of the year, the buses will be put on the road, while assuring that it will drastically reduced transportation fare across the state.

He hinted that Abia State College of Education, Technical, Arochukwu has secured accreditation for 24 of its courses that lost accreditation under the past administration. Adding that the College is equally undergoing infrastructural turn around. Reitereted that of recent

you will see the massive work going on, the roads, hostels, lecture theatres and classrooms.

The Governor who stated that additional buildings have been completed at the permanent site of the Dr Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba and would soon be commissioned. Noting also that the polytechnic have been supportive.

He further noted that students produce the buckets that the Ebonyi State Environmental Protection Agency uses.

“If you see a bucket around your neighbourhood, it was constructed by our students at Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic”, Gov. Otti stated.

Dr Otti revealed that the government have decided to look into the arrears of pension owned pensioners by successive government. He maintained that they are looking for a way out to ensure that the arrears of pension are cleared.

He disclosed that his government have issued about 3,562 certificates of occupancy in the last two and a half years, which is unprecedented. Noting that statistics show that there are some States that have not been able to issue that number in eight years and beyond, he said the Process of the CofO have been automated.

He maintained that those criticizing the budget he recently presented to the House of Assembly are ignorant, he said you cannot criticize a budget you have not read.

The governor stated that of recent they are witnessing investors coming into the state and people also relocating to leave in Abia.

The governor disclosed that the Ohuhu water scheme is in the 2016 budget, adding that the repair of Aba water scheme is in advance stage.

At least four pupils from Egbolo, Igalamela-Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State reportedly lost their lives while several were injured after a truck conveying them to school at the nearby Ofuloko community, lost control and plunged into a river.

The incident reportedly occurred around 8:30 am yesterday.

Residents cried out in distress as they helped pull the children out from under the truck.

The residents, who blocked the road in protest after the incident, said their community has no functioning school, blaming the tragedy on the long distances their children must trek through unsafe routes to attend classes in neighbouring villages.

A grieving parent, who lost his son, accused the government of neglecting Egbolo for years and called for urgent action to stop further incidents.

Also, a youth leader of the community, Usman Idrisu, said the accident occurred around 8 a.m., when a truck carrying building materials ferried some of the pupils to drop them at Ofuloko primary school.

He said the truck was involved in an accident leading to the death of four children, with many sustaining various degrees of injuries.

“The truck could not climb the hill after it crossed the bridge and rolled backward before plunging into the river.

“We are seriously grieved in the Egbolo community for the death of four of our children who died in the cause of seeking education,” he lamented.

Idrisu said the community, despite its population, does not have a primary school, lamenting that their children have to trek a long distance to Ofuloko community to enable them get access to basic education.

He appealed to Governor Ahmed Ododo to consider the population of the community and establish a primary school in the community.

President Bola Tinubu yesterday cautioned judicial officers across the country that justice must remain sacred and insulated from corruption, declaring that “justice must never be for sale.”

Speaking at the opening of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges’ Conference of the Superior Courts in Abuja, Tinubu emphasised that judicial officers remain the true custodians of justice and assured continued investment in welfare, training, and the National Judicial Institute. The President stated that continuous learning and ethical renewal must shape the Bench. However, Tinubu warned that no reform would succeed without unwavering integrity. He said, “Justice must never be for sale, and the Bench must never become a sanctuary for compromise.

“Corruption in any arm of government weakens the nation, but corruption in the Judiciary destroys it at its core.”

Tinubu insisted that judicial discipline must be firm and transparent, stressing that safeguarding the courts’ integrity is the responsibility of every judicial officer, not just the National Judicial Council.

Tinubu noted that the growing backlog of cases and the slow pace of justice delivery were unacceptable and harmful to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

He urged the Judiciary to embrace bold, practical reforms that would restore public trust and strengthen the rule of law, warning that the legitimacy of the courts is threatened when justice is delayed or tainted.

“The backlog of cases in our courts must be addressed with urgency. Our courts must no longer be places where cases languish for years.

“Justice exists for the people, and their faith in the judicial process is the foundation of our national stability,” he said.

Tinubu noted that Nigerians have repeatedly expressed frustration over delayed judgments, questionable conduct, and the difficulty of accessing justice.

He said these concerns require honest reflection and decisive action.

“These perceptions, whether wholly justified or not, cannot be ignored. They call upon us to reflect, to reform, and to restore,” he added.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving judicial capacity, working conditions, and infrastructure nationwide.

He said technology must become central to court operations, with digitisation and integrated case management forming the backbone of future reforms.

“Support must be tangible, not ceremonial. We will prioritise modern infrastructure, digital processes, and efficient case management. A digital, transparent judiciary will deepen accountability and public trust,” he stated.

He urged judges to implement reforms that strengthen discipline, reduce congestion in courts, and make justice more accessible and affordable to citizens.

Declaring the conference open, Tinubu said the evolution of Nigeria’s democracy continues to be shaped by the courage, fairness, and integrity of judicial decisions.

He expressed confidence that the conference resolutions would reinforce the Judiciary as the guardian of the nation’s democratic ideals.

“Each fair judgment strengthens the Republic; each courageous ruling preserves its soul,” he said.

The Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday sentenced Prof. Cyril Ndifon, suspended Dean of Faculty of Law, University of Calabar (UNICAL), to five years’ imprisonment without an option of fine.

Justice James Omotosho, in a judgment, held that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) had been able to prove the evidence in counts one and two beyond a reasonable doubt against the 1st defendant.

Justice Omotosho, therefore, sentenced Ndifon to a two-year jail term in count one and a five-year imprisonment in count two, which must run concurrently.

The judge, however, discharged and acquitted Sunny Anyanwu, who was earlier a member of Ndifon ‘s team of lawyers, of the charges against him.

He held that the anti-corruption commission was unable to link the offences in counts three and four, in which Anyanwu’s name appeared, to the co-defendant.

The reports said that the ICPC had, in the amended charge dated Jan. 19, 2024, preferred four counts against Ndifon (1st defendant) and his lawyer, Sunny Anyanwu (2nd defendant)

Although Ndifon was initially the sole defendant in the sexual harassment charge, Anyanwu was later joined as 2nd defendant in the amended charge.

The development followed allegations that Anyanwu had attempted to pervert the course of justice by calling the star witness on her mobile phone during the pendency of the charge against Ndifon to threaten her.

Anyanwu, while being a lawyer to Ndifon, was said to have called TKJ not either honour the ICPC’s invitation or write any statement in respect of the allegations of sexual harassment case against his client.

In the amended charge, counts one and two accused the professor of sexually harassing some female students of the school.

The commission said that Ndifon, while serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Law at UNICAL, asked a female Diploma student, identified as TKJ and a star witness, to send him “pornographic, indecent and obscene photographs of herself” through WhatsApp chats.

He was also accused of having, on different occasions, asked TKJ to give him “a blow job” as an exchange for gaining admission into the institution to study law.

Ndifon, a public officer, was alleged to have sexually harassed many female students of the institution using his position to gain undue advantage over them.

While count three was preferred solely against Anyanwu, the two defendants were accused of attempting to influence the course of justice in count four of the charge.

The anti-corruption commission had, on Feb 14, 2024, closed its case against the suspended professor and Anyanwu.

ICPC counsel, Osuobeni Akponimisingha, told Justice Omotosho after Bwaigu Fungo, the 4th prosecution witness, a Forensic and intelligence Analyst with the commission, was cross-examined by the defence lawyer.

But the defendants opted for a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had failed to sufficiently prove the allegations against them.

But Justice Omotosho had, on March 6, 2024, dismissed the no-case submission filed by Ndifon and Anyanwu against the charge.

In defending himself, Ndifon testified as the first defence witness (DW-1), while CSP Babagana Mingali, a Forensic Analyst who works at the laboratory of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), gave his testimony as DW-2.

Delivering the judgment, the judge said the commission had been able to prove the ingredients of the offences in counts one and two.

He observed that Ndifon was unable to controvert the evidence that he unduly pressurised TKJ to perform the immoral act with her.

He said: “The victim was desirous of being admitted into the university and the 1st defendant was in advantage to help her being the dean and the diploma course is under his supervision, “The instances of undue advantage are so much. The 1st defendant abused his office.” According to him, the court observes the 1st defendant and see that the 1st defendant is not a witness of truth and cannot be believed by any reasonable court. “Consequently, the 1st defendant is hereby convicted of count one and count two,” he said. The judge said being a first-time offender, he was minded to temper justice with mercy as prayed by Ndifon and his lawyer, Oladimeji Ekengba.

On count three, the judge said he observed that although Anyanwu made a phone call to TKJ, this was about four months before the investigation commenced into the case and a charge preferred against Ndifon.

He said the court cannot assume or speculate the intention of the 2nd defendant at the time the act was committed.

Justice Omotosho, therefore, discharged and acquitted Anyanwu of count three and likewise count four which both the defendants were charged.

The judge, however, condemned Anyanwu’s unprofessional act by calling a supposed witness in his client’s matter.

Also Justice Omotosho berated Ndifon’s immoral conduct.

He said: “It was with dismay I read through this case that a Dean of Law can turn himself to a sexual predator.”

He said his randy nature should be condemned by all.

According to the judge, he is a disgrace to the community of learner persons and must be made to face the wrath of the law.

He said this would serve as a deterrent to others like him in public office who have penchant for taking undue advantage over the female folks.

The League of Nigerian Columnists (LNC) is mourning the passing of Mr. Dan Agbese, a distinguished journalist and influential columnist whose work profoundly shaped Nigeria’s media landscape. His death marks the end of an era defined by integrity, insight, and professional courage.

“The legacy of Dan Agbese is one that every journalist in Nigeria should aspire to,” said Prof. Anthony Kila, Secretary General of the LNC. “He exemplified the highest standards of journalism, demonstrating that integrity and clarity of thought must always guide our writing.”

As a co-founder of Newswatch, Agbese played a pivotal role in fostering informed public discourse. “Dan was more than just a reporter; he was a steward of public trust,” noted a close colleague. “His calm authority and deep analytical insight helped illuminate critical national issues, making him one of the country’s most respected voices.”

Agbese’s writing was marked by elegance and discipline. “He wrote without malice and challenged those in power without theatrics,” said another prominent columnist. “He showed us that courage need not be loud, and that true conviction can foster constructive dialogue.”

In 2021, Agbese was awarded the prestigious LNC Fellowship, the highest honour for a columnist in Nigeria. “This recognition reflects his unwavering commitment to truth and the public good,” Prof. Kila added. “At a time when public discourse often leans toward polarisation, Dan’s example reminds us of the dignity inherent in responsible writing.”

The LNC extends its heartfelt condolences to Agbese’s family, friends, and colleagues. “Nigeria has lost a thoughtful voice, and journalism has lost a beacon,” said Kila. “We, as columnists, have lost one of our finest. His legacy will continue to guide us as we strive for a better society.”

As the LNC commemorates Dan Agbese’s life and work, they hope his example inspires future generations of writers to uphold the values he lived by: intellectual honesty, dedication to truth, and service to the public. “May his memory continue to inspire and uplift us all,” Kila concluded.

The Federal Government has opened the application portal for the Student Venture Capital Grant, a new national initiative aimed at supporting student-led innovation with equity-free grants of up to ₦50m.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education and signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations yesterday.

At the launch, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, said the initiative was central to the government’s innovation drive.

In his words, “The President has challenged us to look for the next Moonshot within our tertiary institutions.

“We are not just looking for projects; we are scouting for future Nigerian Unicorns whose roots will be planted right here in our universities and colleges.

“This is an equity-free seed investment in Nigeria’s future.”

The ministry said the grant is targeted at students building innovations in STEMM fields, Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medical Sciences. It was stated that the initiative is designed to “ignite and support student-driven innovation by funding ventures that address real-world challenges with clear potential for scale and commercialisation.”

It added that successful applicants will be placed in a full support system that includes incubation, mentorship and access to tools.

The ministry also announced a partnership with Google to strengthen the programme’s evaluation process.

It stated that one of the objectives is to ensure that “our students begin their entrepreneurial journey with the very best tools available globally. We are building a powerful innovation funnel from idea to market domination.”

The statement further explained that Google’s Gemini AI will power automated evaluation on the portal, and that every applicant will receive a free one-year Gemini Pro licence and premium learning resources.

The portal for applications is now open at svcg.education.gov.ng, and students in accredited tertiary institutions are encouraged to apply.

According to the ministry, applicants are advised to submit proposals that demonstrate “scalability, market relevance, and potential to solve critical national or global challenges.”

Dangote Refinery has explained that the recent drop in the pump price of premium motor spirit (PMS) by Nigerian petroleum products marketers nationwide is linked to itself.

The company, in a statement yesterday, clarified that the fuel price reduction was not due to the recent suspension of the 15 per cent import duty tariff by the federal government.

The 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery stressed that the recent fuel price drop was due to its gantry price cut to N828 per litre from N877.

“Dangote Petroleum Refinery clarifies that the recent reduction in PMS pump prices by oil marketers was a direct response to our price cut on November 6. It was not caused by the temporary reversal of the 15 percent import tariff.

“We reduced our PMS gantry price from N877 to N828 and coastal price from N854 to N806, and marketers adjusted afterwards,” the oil firm stated.

However, the spokesperson of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria has linked the recent cut in petrol price to the easing of tension in the downstream sector due to the federal government’s suspension of the 15 per cent import duty.

It would be recalled that the federal government suspended its 15 per cent import duty on petrol and diesel, which was intended to support Dangote Refinery.

The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma has unveiled a modern sporting facility built by former Senator representing Imo East District, Senator Chris Anyanwu.

The event which held on Saturday, at the premises of Hot FM Owerri, a radio station owned by the Senator, attracted dignitaries, including politicians, sports enthusiasts, students, among others.

The governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, praised Senator Anyanwu as “a woman of substance” and commended the facility, saying, it aligns with the Shared Prosperity initiatives and 3R agenda.

He noted that the facility complements the state’s infrastructure development and youth empowerment efforts.

The Governor expressed happiness at the peaceful atmosphere that presently exist in the state, as he said:

“Few years ago, insecurity made it difficult for people to gather in the State for an event of this nature, but today, thanks to our proactive efforts, peace has returned. We now need more of these positive developments that complement the infrastructure strides of our administration.

“Many people may not have known such a beautiful facility existed here but now, they know. This is a gift to our people, and we will enjoy it”.

The Governor also reiterated the readiness of his administration to partner with and support private investors in the state.

“The government is ever ready to partner with you and other investors in the state, providing incentives and supports to help you prosper”.

Senator Anyanwu expressed gratitude to the Governor and other dignitaries, explaining that the facility is designed for sports, entertainment, and youth-oriented programmes.

The event featured a guided tour and live radio interaction on Hot FM Owerri.

Dignitaries present at the occasion included the husband of the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Chief (Barr) Chukwuma Ekomaru, SAN; Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu; Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha; Dr. Casmir Anyanwu (husband to the host); Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie; Commissioner for Lands, Barr. Enyinnaya Onuegbu; Commissioner for Works, Hon. Ralph Nwosu; Commissioner for Youths and Talent Hunt, Hon. Mandela Ukaegbu; and Chairman of the Imo State Football Association, Mr. Ifeanyi Dike, among others.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved an additional 14-day grace period for property owners who violated land use conditions in parts of Abuja to pay a penalty fee of ₦5 million and other related charges.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the new grace period begins on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, and applies to property owners in Asokoro, Maitama, Garki, and Wuse districts.

Olayinka said the decision followed the expiration of the initial 30-day deadline for affected allottees and title holders to regularize their land use.

“Failure to comply within the stated 14 calendar days grace period will result in enforcement actions by the FCT Administration,” he warned.

The statement added that the grace period is part of Wike’s effort to encourage voluntary compliance before the administration begins stricter enforcement measures.

The statement read; “Sequel to the Public Notices made by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Monday 8th September 2025, Tuesday 9th September 2025, and Wednesday 10th September 2025, in some national dailies and online platforms, in respect of the reviewed Land Use/Purpose Clause of properties in the FCT, the general public particularly allottees/title holders of properties on the underlisted streets/locations of the Federal Capital City (FCC) are hereby informed that the 30 days period given for the payment of penalty/violation fee of ₦5 million and other applicable fees for Land Use Change/Conversion had since one month ago expired.

“However, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), His Excellency, Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has magnanimously granted a final grace period of 14 calendar days from Tuesday November 11, 2025, for all affected allottees/holders of properties along the said streets/locations to comply with the terms and conditions of the approval for land use change/conversion.

“The affected streets/locations are Gana Street, Maitama District, Usuma Street, Maitama District, Yakubu Gowon Crescent, Asokoro District, Aminu Kano Crescent and Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent in Wuse II District, Ladoke Akintola Boulevard, Gimbiya Street and Onitsha Street in Garki II District.”

“Others are Ogbomosho Street, Lafia Close, Yola Street, District, Abriba Close, Danbatta Street, Ringim Close and Ilorin Street in Garki I District.”

Recall that on September 8 and 9, 2025, the FCT Administration announced the approval of a reviewed Land Use/Purpose Clause for properties located across 15 streets and areas within the Federal Capital City.

According to the notice, property owners who changed the use of their land without official approval violated the terms of their Right of Occupancy. They were given 30 days from September 10, 2025, to pay a ₦5 million violation fee and other applicable charges.