The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the allocation of land in Abuja to ambassadors and high commissioners-designate as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations and foster closer engagement with Nigeria.
Wike made this known during a courtesy visit by the envoys, led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, on Tuesday.
Addressing the diplomats, the minister explained that the President’s decision was intended to ensure that Nigeria’s representatives abroad have a permanent residence in Abuja when they return for official duties.
“The President believes that most of you do not have a place in Abuja… he will encourage you to see how you will put up a place where you can stay.
“Before you leave this morning, each and every one of you should have your form to apply for land allocation in Abuja,” Wike stated.
He added that the initiative is designed to deepen diplomatic presence in the capital and enhance engagement between foreign missions and the FCT Administration.
“You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” he said, urging the envoys to represent the country positively in their postings.
Wike also charged them to effectively communicate the administration’s priorities, particularly in attracting foreign investment and strengthening international partnerships.
“Mr President has travelled extensively to attract investment and partnerships. It is now your role to reinforce that effort by building confidence in Nigeria as a viable destination for investment,” he added.
The minister dismissed concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state, insisting that the country remains a multi-party democracy and urging the envoys to convey this message abroad.
Highlighting development efforts in the FCT, he noted ongoing infrastructure expansion and improved road networks across the six area councils—Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali—positioning Abuja as a competitive global capital.
He also encouraged the envoys to attract investors to sectors such as agriculture and waste management, pointing out that vast arable land in areas like Gwagwalada and Kwali remains underutilised.
Wike further disclosed ongoing plans to collaborate with countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as engagements with the European Commission to boost development partnerships.
Expressing optimism about the country’s future, he said Nigeria would become more peaceful, united, and stronger by 2027.
Earlier, Ahmed stated that the visit formed part of the ambassadors’ induction programme, aimed at highlighting the strategic importance of the FCT in Nigeria’s foreign relations.
He noted that Abuja, as the administrative and diplomatic hub, plays a vital role in shaping global perceptions of the country.
“Our ambassadors and high commissioners have been entrusted with representing Nigeria at a pivotal moment in our nation’s development,” Ahmed said, adding that they are expected to promote economic diplomacy, attract investment, and project a positive image of Nigeria globally.
He commended ongoing developments in the FCT under Wike’s leadership, particularly in infrastructure and service delivery, noting that such progress enhances Nigeria’s international standing.
Ahmed also called for stronger collaboration between foreign missions and the FCT Administration to advance investment promotion, cultural exchange, and urban development initiatives.