Nigerian Ambassadors and High commissioners-designate have been rewarded with lands in Abuja by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
This was disclosed on Wednesday by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday when he played host to the envoys led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed.
Speaking, Wike explained that the initiative is intended to provide Nigeria’s diplomatic representatives with a lasting presence in the capital, particularly during their periodic returns for official briefings.
“The President believes that most of you do not have a place in Abuja, and he wants to encourage you to see how you can put up a place 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 said.
According to the Minister, the policy is also designed to strengthen the diplomatic footprint within Abuja and promote closer interaction between foreign missions and the FCT Administration.
“You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” Wike said, urging the envoys to uphold the nation’s image in their respective postings.
He further tasked them with advancing the administration’s economic diplomacy agenda by promoting Nigeria as an attractive destination for investment.
“Mr. President has traveled 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.
Addressing political concerns, Wike dismissed claims that Nigeria is veering toward a one-party system, stressing the country’s continued adherence to democratic governance.
“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.
Highlighting ongoing developments in the FCT, the Minister pointed to infrastructure upgrades and expanded road networks across the six area councils—Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali—as key factors enhancing Abuja’s competitiveness as a global capital.
He urged the envoys to channel investment into priority sectors such as agriculture and waste management, noting that large portions of arable land in Gwagwalada and Kwali remain untapped.
“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 also revealed that the FCT Administration is exploring partnerships with countries such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, alongside planned engagements with the European Commission, to drive development across critical sectors.
Earlier in his remarks, Ahmed said the visit formed part of the ambassadors’ induction program, aimed at acquainting them with the strategic role of the FCT in Nigeria’s foreign relations architecture.
He noted that Abuja serves as both the administrative center and diplomatic hub of the country, making it central to shaping international perceptions.
“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 are expected to champion economic diplomacy, attract investment, and promote a positive image of Nigeria globally.