Wike Assures Foreign Missions of Safety, Urges Development of Allocated Lands in FCT

Wike Assures Diplomatic Community Of Safe Enabling Environment
By Remi Johnson
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured the diplomatic community in Abuja that the government will continue to provide an enabling environment for them to effectively carry out their duties, particularly in the area of security.

The Minister gave the assurance at the European Union Complex in Abuja during the Saint Patrick’s Day reception and the official opening of the new Embassy of Ireland on Wednesday. He noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working diligently to ensure that Abuja compares favorably with other capital cities around the world.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Republic of Ireland’s Minister of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Mr. Jack Chamber, the Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, as well as other members of the diplomatic corps.
Wike stated that the FCT administration has a responsibility to create the right environment for diplomats, emphasizing that efforts are ongoing to enhance security and improve overall conditions in the capital city. He expressed confidence that noticeable improvements have already been made since the current administration assumed office and assured that such progress would be sustained.
He also expressed the willingness of the FCT administration to collaborate with the diplomatic community to strengthen Nigeria’s international relationships.
The Minister congratulated the Irish Ambassador on the occasion of Saint Patrick’s Day and the inauguration of the new embassy building, describing it as a significant milestone.
Clarifying his role at the event, Wike said he was present not as a representative of the Federal Government or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but in his capacity as the FCT Minister and “landlord” to the diplomatic community in Abuja.
He hinted at a possible visit to Ireland in the near future, noting that the Irish Ambassador had previously invited him. He added that with the appointment of a new Ambassador-designate to Ireland, OCJ Okocha, whom he described as a trusted associate with proven capacity, the timing may now be right for such a visit.
Wike further urged embassies to develop lands allocated to them within the FCT, recalling a recent incident where an undeveloped diplomatic plot was encroached upon by a land grabber.
He stressed that the law would always be enforced, regardless of personal opinions, and reiterated his commitment to doing what is right. He disclosed that embassies have been formally notified to reclaim and develop their allocated lands.