The Nigerian government has issued a strict ultimatum to all property owners with Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to pay ground rent or risk losing their land titles. Ground rent is a key revenue source for the government, and non-compliance is no longer an option under the current administration.
The consequences are clear: either settle your dues or face the consequences, which could be the revocation of your C of O.
Why Must You Pay Ground Rent?
Ground rent is a statutory fee that property owners pay for the land they occupy. It forms part of the government’s revenue, which is critical for national development. If you don’t pay ground rent, you’re putting your property rights at risk. The government uses this money to fund projects that benefit the public, such as infrastructure development, housing, and community services.
What Happens if You Don’t Pay Ground Rent?
Failure to pay ground rent can lead to severe consequences. The government has made it clear that non-compliance will result in the revocation of your Certificate of Occupancy. This means that your rights to the land will be taken away, and you could lose ownership. The government is no longer tolerating defaults, as trillions of Naira have already been lost due to unpaid dues.
Who Do You Pay Ground Rent To?
Property owners often ask, “Who do you pay ground rent to?” The answer is straightforward: ground rent is paid to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development or the respective state land authority that issued your Certificate of Occupancy. It’s essential to know the right body to avoid confusion and ensure your payments are directed to the proper channels.
Grounds for Not Paying Rent: Are There Any?
Are there valid grounds for not paying rent? Legally, there aren’t. Every property owner with a C of O is obligated to pay their ground rent. Failing to do so is a violation of the terms set in the Certificate of Occupancy, and the government will enforce penalties, including C of O revocation, to recover lost revenue.
How to Pay Ground Rent Online
The Nigerian government has simplified the process of how to pay ground rent online. Now, property owners can settle their dues through digital platforms set up by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
This move reduces the administrative bottlenecks of the past. To pay online, visit the ministry’s website, input your property details, and complete the transaction with ease. The government is focused on making it as convenient as possible for property owners to comply.
The 60-Day Notice: A Final Warning
Recently, the government issued a 60-day ultimatum to property owners across the country to settle their unpaid ground rent. This final warning serves as a critical reminder to those who have ignored their obligations. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development emphasized that the 60-day window is the last opportunity to comply before the C of O revocation process begins.
Consequences of Default
For those wondering, “What happens if you don’t pay ground rent?”—the answer is simple: you risk losing your land title. The Federal Ministry of Housing has warned that this non-compliance will no longer be tolerated. Revoking the Certificate of Occupancy means losing all legal rights to your land, and it could be reallocated to someone else.
The Impact on National Development
The non-payment of ground rent has resulted in the loss of trillions of Naira in revenue, hampering national development efforts. The government has made it clear that this revenue is critical for delivering on its promises to Nigerians, particularly under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
Taking Action Now
To avoid revocation, take immediate action. Paying ground rent is now simpler, and with online payment options available, there’s no excuse. It’s essential to check your outstanding dues, ensure they are paid in full, and avoid the risk of losing your land.
By complying with this directive, property owners not only secure their assets but also contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria. Don’t wait until it’s too late—pay your ground rent today.
Final Thoughts
Ignoring the government’s mandate to pay ground rent online could cost you your land title. The consequences are severe, and with the new 60-day deadline, time is running out. Whether you’re unsure of who to pay ground rent to or simply haven’t gotten around to making the payment, it’s crucial to act now. The consequences of inaction—losing your C of O—are too great to ignore.
Donald Karo
