FG engages embassies over N3.6bn ground rent debt

The Nigerian Federal Government has initiated diplomatic engagements to resolve outstanding ground rent debts owed by several foreign embassies in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), amounting to over N3.6 billion.

Speaking with our correspondent on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed that the issue would be addressed through appropriate diplomatic channels in collaboration with the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

“The ministry will take up the matter with the FCTA and it will be addressed via diplomatic channels,” Ebienfa stated.

This assurance comes amid reports that the FCTA is considering enforcement measures, including the possible sealing of 34 diplomatic missions for failing to pay ground rent arrears dating as far back as 2014.

According to a public notice issued by the FCTA, the embassies collectively owe billions in unpaid dues, prompting renewed efforts by the government to recover the funds.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had earlier ordered enforcement actions on nearly 4,800 properties over prolonged non-payment of ground rent. However, President Bola Tinubu later intervened, granting a two-week grace period for debt settlement.

In addition to the outstanding rents, the FCTA’s Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, stated that defaulters may also face penalties ranging from N2 million to N3 million, depending on property location.

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Some of the embassies listed among the defaulters include:

• Ghana High Commission Defence Section – N5,950
• Embassy of Thailand – N5,350
• Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire – N5,500
• Embassy of the Russian Federation – N1,100
• Embassy of the Philippines – N5,950
• Royal Netherlands Embassy – N5,950
• Embassy of Turkey – N3,350
• Embassy of the Republic of Guinea – N5,950
• Embassy of Ireland – N500
• Embassy of Uganda – N5,950
• Embassy of Iraq – N550
• Zambia High Commission – N1,189,990

Despite the growing concern, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured that all discussions and resolutions will follow internationally recognized diplomatic norms and avoid actions that could breach bilateral relations.