President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the allocation of plots of land in Abuja to Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate, according to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The initiative aims to deepen diplomatic engagement and strengthen Nigeria's global presence.
Wike Announces Land Allocation During Envoys' Visit
Wike made the disclosure 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 said the President's decision was informed by the need to ensure that Nigeria's representatives abroad maintain a tangible presence in the nation's capital, particularly during periodic consultations and official engagements.
"The President believes that most of you do not have a place in Abuja. He wants to encourage you to see how you can put up somewhere you can stay. Before you leave this morning, each and every one of you should have your form to apply for land allocation," Wike said.
He noted that the initiative would not only provide accommodation for returning envoys but also strengthen the institutional link between Nigeria's foreign missions and the FCT.
Envoys Urged to Drive Investment Push
Wike placed greater emphasis on the strategic role of the ambassadors in advancing the administration's economic agenda, urging them to actively drive President Tinubu's foreign investment push. "You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria," he said, stressing the need for the envoys to project a positive image of the country in their respective postings.
He added that while the President had undertaken extensive international engagements to attract investors, it was incumbent on the diplomats to consolidate those gains. "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 stated.
The minister further charged the envoys to promote economic diplomacy by identifying opportunities and attracting investors, particularly in critical sectors such as agriculture and waste management within the FCT and beyond. Highlighting the untapped potential in the territory, Wike pointed to vast arable land in councils such as Gwagwalada and Kwali, noting that increased foreign participation could significantly boost productivity and economic growth. "There is enormous potential in agriculture within the FCT, but investment is still limited. We need your support to unlock these opportunities," he added.
Wike Dismisses One-Party State Fears
On the political front, Wike dismissed concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state, insisting that the country remains firmly anchored in democratic principles. "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," he said.
He also outlined ongoing efforts by the FCT Administration to partner with countries, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as planned engagements with the European Commission to boost development cooperation and investment inflows. Expressing optimism about the nation's trajectory, Wike said Nigeria was on course for greater stability and unity in the coming years. "I remain confident that by 2027, Nigeria will be more peaceful, more united, and stronger as a nation," he said.
Induction Programme Highlights FCT's Role
Earlier, Ahmed said the visit formed part of the ambassadors' induction programme, designed to acquaint them with the strategic importance of the FCT in Nigeria's foreign relations architecture. He described Abuja as the nation's administrative and diplomatic hub, noting that its development plays a critical role in shaping international perceptions of Nigeria.
"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 were expected to promote economic diplomacy, attract investment, and project the country positively on the global stage.
He commended the ongoing transformation of the FCT under Wike, particularly in infrastructure development, urban management, and service delivery, stressing that such progress enhances Nigeria's global image. Ahmed also called for closer collaboration between Nigeria's foreign missions and the FCT Administration to advance investment promotion, cultural exchange, and urban development initiatives.
The visit, he said, underscores the importance of aligning Nigeria's foreign policy objectives with domestic development priorities, especially in positioning Abuja as a world-class capital and a hub for international cooperation.
