The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured diplomats in Abuja of the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for them to carry out their duties, particularly in terms of security.
Wike gave the assurance while speaking at the European Union Complex in Abuja during the Saint Patrick’s Day reception and the official opening of the new Ireland Embassy on Wednesday.
The event was attended by Ireland’s Minister of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chamber, the Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, as well as other diplomats.
“For us here, we owe you a duty to make sure that we create the right environment.
“We want to ensure that Abuja looks like other capital cities in the world. We will keep providing the right support and conditions so you can do your job, especially when it comes to safety. Of course you’ll agree that things have gotten better in Abuja since this administration took over. We will keep improving everyday.
“Additionally, we are open to partnering with you to see how the relationship with Nigeria continues to develop,” Wike said.
The minister also expressed appreciation to the Irish Ambassador for organising the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration and commissioning the new embassy building.
He said, “I am not representing the Federal Government. I am not representing the Foreign Affairs Ministry. I am here as the FCT Minister and I am here to speak as your landlord. Let me congratulate you on Saint Patrick’s Day and the completion of this beautiful building.”
Wike hinted at a possible visit to Ireland, noting his familiarity with the newly appointed Nigerian ambassador to the country.
“I’ve met the ambassador a couple of times when he came to my office, and he’s been encouraging me to visit Ireland.
“Luckily again, the new ambassador designate to Ireland is my uncle and my leader from my local government. He was the former NBA President, OCJ Okocha. I think God knows the reason I didn’t go. But now that someone I know very well, whose pedigree and capacity I can vouch for, has been appointed as the ambassador, this should be the right time to visit Ireland.”
The minister also urged embassies to develop lands allocated to them within the FCT, warning against leaving such properties idle.
“You saw what happened recently when land allocated to embassies was cornered by a land grabber, who was building houses on the land because the embassies didn’t develop it.
“Of course you know me very well, the law must take its course. We had to let them know that we can’t take anymore. My face might not be liked by a lot of people, but I don’t mind. I’ll keep doing what I think is right. We have written to the embassies to come and reclaim their land for development.”
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