Wike Declines Customs' Bid to Regain Revoked Land in FCT.

(FCTA) recently revoked land allocations previously set aside for a variety of recipients, encompassing agencies, institutions, and individuals, including the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). This action was taken due to their noncompliance with the specified obligation to develop the designated plots.

During a convened session in Abuja, Minister Nyesom Wike of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) firmly declined the request for reconsideration presented by the NCS, led by acting comptroller-general Adewale Adeniyi. Mr. Wike stressed the utmost significance of adhering to the land development guidelines delineated by the FCTA.

Among the entities affected by the land revocations was the Nigeria Customs Service, which was seeking to obtain land for the establishment of primary and secondary schools catering to the educational needs of over 2,000 customs officers residing in the FCT.

Upon reviewing the NCS's request, Minister Wike expressed his disappointment with the agency's previous handling of the allocated land. He emphasized the need for government agencies to take proactive steps in developing the lands they acquire within the FCT.

Regarding the potential allocation of land for school construction, Minister Wike assured the customs chief that such a consideration would be contingent on a firm commitment from the agency to initiate and complete the development within a specified timeframe. He made it clear that failure to adhere to this condition would result in the land being reclaimed.

Mr. Wike emphasized his reluctance to allocate land without a concrete plan for its development, stating, "I will not allocate land that will lay to thy kingdom come." He insisted that the NCS must convincingly demonstrate their genuine intent to construct schools for both their personnel and the local community.

Furthermore, Minister Wike stressed the importance of timely payment of ground rent as a prerequisite for any potential land allocation to the NCS. He assured the customs officials that once the requisite application is submitted, he would promptly approve the allocation and instruct the director of lands to facilitate the process.

In the early stages of the meeting, the head of the Nigeria Customs Service extended congratulations to Minister Wike on his appointment as the FCT Minister, commending him for his exceptional achievements thus far in his tenure. The customs officials expressed their eagerness to collaborate with the FCTA in achieving their shared goals and objectives.