Abuja – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the allocation of land in Abuja to incoming ambassadors and high commissioners. The declaration was made during a courtesy visit by a delegation of ambassadors‑designate, led by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dunoma Umar Ahmed, at the minister’s official residence in Life Camp on Tuesday.
Wike explained that the land‑grant programme aims to provide diplomatic representatives with a permanent residence in the capital, facilitating regular briefings and strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement. “Before you leave this morning, each of you should have your form to apply for a land allocation in Abuja,” the minister said.
The initiative is positioned as a measure to deepen the diplomatic presence in the Federal Capital Territory and to enhance cooperation between foreign missions and the FCT administration. Wike urged the envoys to uphold Nigeria’s image abroad, noting that “the way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria.” He also called on the diplomats to convey President Tinubu’s vision for attracting foreign investment and expanding international partnerships.
Addressing concerns about the country’s political system, Wike affirmed that Nigeria remains a multi‑party democracy and that there are no plans to move toward a one‑party state, urging diplomats to communicate this message in their postings.
Highlighting recent development in the capital, Wike cited infrastructure expansion and road improvements across the six area councils—Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali— which he said are positioning Abuja as a competitive global capital. He identified agriculture and waste management as priority sectors for investment, pointing to under‑utilised arable land in Gwagwalada and Kwali.
The minister also disclosed ongoing bilateral talks with Saudi Arabia and Egypt to boost key sectors, and announced forthcoming engagement with the European Commission to enhance development cooperation. “I remain confident that by 2027 Nigeria will be more peaceful, more united, and stronger as a nation,” Wike added.
Permanent Secretary Ahmed described the visit as part of the ambassadors’ induction programme, intended to familiarise them with the strategic importance of the FCT in Nigeria’s foreign relations. He praised the FCT’s transformation under Wike’s leadership, noting improvements in infrastructure, urban management, and service delivery that bolster the country’s international image.
Ahmed called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria’s foreign missions and the FCT administration to promote investment, cultural exchange, and urban development. He said aligning foreign policy with domestic development priorities is essential for positioning Abuja as a world‑class capital and a hub for international cooperation.
