In a landmark gesture, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has approved and signed more than 1,000 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) for homeowners in the prestigious River Park Estate, Abuja.
The move has been hailed as a game-changer for real estate investment in the nation’s capital.
At a ceremony on Saturday, the estate’s developer, Mr. Paul Odili, handed over the certificates to jubilant homeowners.
He praised the minister’s swift action, describing it as a vote of confidence in Abuja’s real estate sector.
“The Honourable Minister of the FCT has done something unprecedented by signing over a thousand C-of-Os at once,” Odili said. “This gesture will undoubtedly encourage more investment in real estate and strengthen trust among stakeholders.”
Odili emphasized the importance of transparency in the issuance process. “These certificates were entrusted to us by the FCT administration, and it was vital to show that they have been delivered to the rightful beneficiaries. This is not just about houses, it’s about securing people’s investments and dreams,” he noted.
In a significant development, Odili also announced his full acquisition of the estate, previously co-owned by international partners.
Houses for Africa Holdings, led by John Townley-Johnson, and Jonah Capital Limited, founded by Adrian Ogun, have sold their stakes to Odili.
Confirming the transfer, Townley-Johnson said, “We are confident that Mr. Odili’s leadership will take the estate to greater heights.
He has the expertise and vision to deliver on the promises made to homeowners.”
Ogun echoed similar sentiments, highlighting his long-standing partnership with Odili and expressing trust in his ability to maintain high standards in the estate.
For many beneficiaries, the event marked the culmination of years of effort and hope. Engr. Benjamin Ogwuche, President of KRPC Cooperative Society, Kaduna, said, “This is a monumental day for us. Our members now have the peace of mind that comes with legal ownership of over 100 properties here.”
Another recipient, Mr. Daniel Okoebor, expressed his excitement. “Holding this certificate in my hands today means my investment is secure. It’s a validation of my trust in this estate,” he said.
Odili highlighted the broader implications of the minister’s actions, noting that the issuance of the certificates would inspire more confidence in Nigeria’s real estate sector. “This is a strong message to investors that Abuja is open for business, and the FCT administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for growth,” he stated.
The ceremony concluded with optimism, as stakeholders applauded Wike’s leadership and expressed hope that similar initiatives would be extended to other estates across the FCT.
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