President Bola Tinubu has approved the allocation of plots of land in Abuja to Nigeria’s ambassadors and high commissioners-designate, in a move aimed at strengthening their connection to the nation’s capital.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this on Wednesday while hosting the envoys at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
The diplomats, led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, were in the FCT as part of their induction programme ahead of deployment.
Wike said the President’s decision was intended to provide the envoys with a base in Abuja for official engagements when they return to the country.
“The President believes that most of you do not have a place in Abuja… before you leave this morning, each and every one of you should have your form to apply for a land allocation,” he said.
He also charged the diplomats to project a positive image of Nigeria abroad, stressing that their conduct would shape global perception of the country.
“You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” Wike stated.
The minister urged them to complement the administration’s economic diplomacy efforts by attracting investment and 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,” he added.
On concerns about Nigeria’s democratic trajectory, Wike maintained that the country remains committed to a multi-party system.
“There is no plan to turn the country into a one-party state. You must communicate this clearly wherever you serve,” he said.
He further highlighted investment opportunities within the FCT, particularly in agriculture and waste management, noting that vast arable land in Gwagwalada and Kwali remains underutilised.
Wike also revealed ongoing partnership discussions with Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the European Commission to drive development across key sectors.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary Ahmed described the ambassadors’ postings as coming at a critical time, noting that economic diplomacy and investment promotion would be central to their responsibilities.
He also commended ongoing infrastructure development in the FCT, saying improvements in the capital city enhance Nigeria’s global image and attractiveness to investors.
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