Unpaid Rent Threatens Ghana’s Abuja Mission
The Ghana High Commission in Abuja risks being shut down over unpaid ground rent, part of a crackdown by Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). On June 9, 2025, the FCTA listed 34 embassies, including Ghana’s, owing ₦3.66 million in total for over a decade of unpaid rent.
The FCTA, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, started enforcing payment after revoking titles for 4,794 properties, including embassies, on May 26, 2025. Ghana’s Defence Section owes ₦5,950, with extra penalties of ₦2-3 million possible. President Bola Tinubu gave a 14-day grace period, ending June 9, to settle debts or face closure.
Ghana’s High Commission told local media it hasn’t received official notice from the FCTA but plans to work with Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry to resolve the issue. Other embassies, like Germany, also said they weren’t formally notified. The FCTA insists that defaulters must pay to avoid losing their properties.
The unpaid rent, some dating back to 2014, has sparked concerns about diplomatic relations. The FCTA’s push aims to boost revenue for city projects, but sealing embassies could strain ties. Ghana’s mission is vital for citizens in Nigeria, handling visas and trade matters.
As the deadline passes, Ghana and other embassies are scrambling to clear debts. The FCTA’s Director of Land, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, warned that non-payment could lead to property seizures, putting pressure on Ghana to act fast to keep its mission open.