By Ben Adoga, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration to allocate plots of land in Abuja to all Nigerian ambassadors-designate as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic engagement and provide returning envoys with permanent residential stakes in the nation’s capital.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike disclosed this while hosting ambassadors-designate at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
The diplomatic delegation was led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed.
Wike said President Tinubu’s directive was intended to ensure Nigerian diplomats have a home base in Abuja whenever they return for official briefings or consultations.
“The President believes that most of you do not have a place in Abuja. He wants to encourage you to secure land where you can build and stay.
“Before you leave this morning, every one of you should have your form to apply for a land allocation in Abuja,” Wike said.
He described the initiative as part of broader efforts to deepen diplomatic presence in Abuja and encourage stronger ties between Nigeria’s foreign missions and the FCT.
Wike charged the ambassadors-designate to serve as credible representatives of Nigeria abroad, emphasising that their conduct would shape global perceptions 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,” he stated.
He urged the envoys to actively promote President Tinubu’s vision, particularly in attracting foreign investment, strengthening economic partnerships, and reinforcing Nigeria’s democratic image.
Addressing concerns over Nigeria’s political trajectory, Wike dismissed claims of an emerging one-party system.
“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 Abuja’s transformation, Wike pointed to major infrastructure expansion, improved road networks, and urban renewal projects across all six area councils as evidence of the FCT’s emergence as a globally competitive capital.
He also called on diplomats to attract foreign investors into key sectors such as agriculture and waste management, especially in underutilised districts like Gwagwalada and Kwali.
“There is enormous potential in agriculture within the FCT, but investment is still limited. We need your support to unlock these opportunities,” he said.
Wike revealed ongoing development partnerships with countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, alongside planned engagements with the European Commission.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, said the visit formed part of the ambassadors’ induction programme and was designed to expose them to Abuja’s strategic role in Nigeria’s diplomatic and development agenda.
He praised the FCT Administration’s infrastructural progress, noting that Abuja’s transformation enhances Nigeria’s global image and strengthens its foreign policy objectives.
