President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the allocation of plots of land in Abuja to Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate, to deepen diplomatic ties and provide them with permanent residences in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, made this disclosure during a courtesy visit by the envoys, led by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed. The move, Wike explained, addresses the lack of accommodations for diplomats returning for briefings.
“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 where you can stay. Before you leave this morning, each and every one of you should have your form to apply for a land allocation in Abuja,” he stated.
He charged the ambassadors to serve as the country’s mirror, projecting Nigeria positively abroad, while advancing President Tinubu’s investment drive. “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,” the minister added.
He dismissed fears of Nigeria sliding into a one-party state, affirming, “Nigeria remains a multi-party democracy. There is no plan to turn the country into a one-party state. You must communicate this clearly wherever you serve.”
Spotlighting FCT’s progress, he highlighted infrastructure gains across the six area councils, comprising Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje and Kwali, and urged investment in agriculture and waste management. “There is enormous potential in agriculture within the FCT, but investment is still limited. We need your support to unlock these opportunities,” he said.
The minister revealed partnerships with Saudi Arabia, Egypt and plans with the European Commission and expressed optimism, saying, “I remain confident that by 2027, Nigeria will be more peaceful, united and stronger as a nation.”
Earlier, Ahmed described the visit as part of the envoys’ induction, emphasising Abuja’s role as Nigeria’s diplomatic hub. “Our Ambassadors and High Commissioners have been entrusted with representing Nigeria at a pivotal moment in our nation’s development,” he said, praising Wike’s transformations in infrastructure and urban management.
He called for collaboration between missions and the FCT to boost economic diplomacy, cultural exchanges and position Abuja as a global capital.
