How To Pay Ground Rent In Abuja

Easily Pay Ground Rent in Abuja (Before It’s Too Late)

Ground rent is a crucial but often overlooked obligation for property owners in Abuja. Many people have lost their lands due to non-payment, especially after the FCT Minister’s recent crackdown. If you own property in Abuja, this guide will show you exactly how to pay your ground rent, avoid penalties, and keep your land secure.

What is Ground Rent in Nigeria?

According to the Land Use Act, a federal law that governs land ownership in Nigeria, all lands within the country—including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—are vested in the government. When land is allocated to individuals or entities, it is essentially on a leasehold basis, often for a period of up to 99 years. In return, the occupier is expected to pay ground rent annually.

This fee is like a lease renewal—it keeps your legal hold on the property secure. Neglecting it puts you at risk of losing the land back to the government. Unfortunately, many have already faced revocation of their land titles due to unpaid ground rent, especially with the recent crackdown by the FCT Minister.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

Ground rent might seem minor, but defaulting on it comes with major consequences:

Land Revocation
Legal Action
Delayed Government Services (e.g., title upgrades, building plan approvals)

As more people become aware of these dangers, the urgency to comply is growing.

Failure to pay = Risk of revocation!

Watch the video below or proceed with the instructions highlighted in this article.

How to Pay Ground Rent in Abuja (Step-by-Step)

1. Check How Much You Owe via AGIS

Visit the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) to get a ground rent report. The amount owed is calculated from the date your C of O or R of O was issued.

2. Generate a Remittance on Remita

Go to Remita’s FHA payment portal
Select “Ground Rent” as the payment category
Enter the required details and generate an RRR (Remita Retrieval Reference) number

3. Make Payment

You can pay via:
✔ Bank transfer (using the RRR number)
✔ POS at approved banks
✔ Online payment (card or USSD)

4. Clear Fees at FCTA

Once payment is made:

Take the payment receipt and RRR to the FCT Administration Revenue Office
They will update your records and clear your outstanding fees

You’ll be given a clearance confirmation, and your land title will be safe—until the next yearly renewal.

Important Documents You Need

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or Right of Occupancy (R of O)
Government-issued identification
Payment receipts from Remita

Avoid These Common Mistakes

❌ Assuming ground rent is optional – It’s mandatory!
❌ Delaying payment – Late fees and penalties apply.
❌ Ignoring AGIS updates – Always verify your dues.

By following this guide, you’ll stay compliant, avoid penalties, and protect your property in Abuja. Don’t wait—pay your ground rent today! 💰🏡

Need More Help?

✔ FHA Official Updates
✔ Professional Guide to Avoiding Revocation

FAQs on Ground Rent in Abuja

1. What happens if I don’t pay ground rent?

Your land can be revoked by the FCT Minister. Many property owners have already faced this consequence.

2. How much is ground rent in Abuja?

It varies based on:
✔ Location (high-demand areas like Maitama cost more)
✔ Land size
✔ Property type (residential vs. commercial)
For exact rates, check AGIS.

3. Can I pay ground rent online?

Yes! Use Remita for a seamless online payment process.

4. What’s the difference between C of O and R of O?

C of O (Certificate of Occupancy) = Full ownership rights, issued by the government.
R of O (Right of Occupancy) = Temporary rights, often given by indigenous landowners.
For a deeper comparison, read: C of O vs. R of O – Key Differences

Final Thoughts

Paying ground rent in Abuja is non-negotiable if you want to keep your property. Follow these steps, stay updated, and avoid the risk of losing your land.

How to Pay Ground Rent in Abuja

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