President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the allocation of land in Abuja to ambassadors and high commissioners-designate, a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic engagement and deepening ties with Nigeria.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the envoys, led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, at his residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
Wike explained that the President’s decision was driven by the need to ensure that Nigeria’s diplomatic representatives have a permanent base in Abuja for official engagements and periodic briefings. He encouraged each envoy to apply for land allocation immediately, stressing the importance of establishing a presence in the nation’s capital.
According to him, the initiative is designed to strengthen diplomatic ties while enhancing engagement between foreign missions and the FCT. He also reminded the envoys of their role as representatives of Nigeria, noting that their conduct abroad shapes the country’s global image.
The minister urged them to actively promote the administration’s vision, particularly in attracting foreign investment and fostering international partnerships. He noted that while the President has been engaging global stakeholders to boost investment, diplomats must complement these efforts by building confidence in Nigeria as a viable destination.
Wike also dismissed claims that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party system, maintaining that the country remains committed to democratic principles. He tasked the envoys with clearly communicating this position in their postings.
Highlighting ongoing development in the FCT, he pointed to improved infrastructure and expanding road networks across area councils such as Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali, noting that these projects are positioning Abuja as a competitive global capital.
He further called on the diplomats to attract investors, especially in agriculture and waste management, emphasizing the untapped potential in areas like Gwagwalada and Kwali. Wike added that discussions are ongoing with countries such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, alongside planned engagements with the European Commission, to boost development partnerships.
Expressing optimism about the nation’s outlook, he said Nigeria is on track to become more united, peaceful, and economically stronger in the coming years.
Earlier, Ahmed stated that the visit formed part of the ambassadors’ induction programme, aimed at familiarising them with the strategic role of the FCT in Nigeria’s foreign relations. He noted that Abuja remains central to shaping global perceptions of the country.
He added that the envoys have a critical responsibility to promote economic diplomacy, attract investments, and project Nigeria positively on the global stage. Ahmed also commended the ongoing transformation of the FCT under Wike, particularly in infrastructure and service delivery, describing it as a boost to Nigeria’s international image.
The Permanent Secretary called for closer collaboration between Nigeria’s foreign missions and the FCT Administration to advance investment, cultural exchange, and urban development, stressing the need to align foreign policy goals with domestic development priorities.
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