Wike to ambassadors-designate: You’re Nigeria’s mirror, protect our image abroad

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged ambassadors-designate to uphold Nigeria’s image in their respective postings.

Wike gave the advice during a courtesy visit by ambassadors-designate led by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed, at his official residence in Abuja on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

“You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” the minister said.

He charged them to effectively communicate the vision and priorities of President Bola Tinubu, particularly in attracting foreign investment and strengthening international 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 for investment,” Wike stated.

The minister also dismissed concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state, insisting that the country remains firmly rooted in democratic principles.

“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 development strides in the FCT, Wike noted that infrastructure expansion and improved road networks across the six area councils Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali were positioning Abuja as a competitive global capital.

He called on the envoys to attract investors, particularly in agriculture and waste management, noting that vast arable land in areas such as Gwagwalada and Kwali remains underutilised.

“There is enormous potential in agriculture within the FCT, but investment is still limited. We need your support to unlock these opportunities,” he added.

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Wike further revealed ongoing efforts to partner with countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt to boost key sectors, while also announcing plans for engagement with the European Commission to enhance development cooperation.

He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying: “I remain confident that by 2027, Nigeria will be more peaceful, more united, and stronger as a nation.”

Earlier, Ahmed commended the ongoing transformation of the FCT under Wike’s leadership, particularly in infrastructure, urban management, and service delivery, noting that such progress strengthens Nigeria’s international image.

Ahmed also called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria’s foreign missions and the FCT Administration to advance investment promotion, cultural exchange, and urban development initiatives.

The visit, he said, underscores the importance of aligning Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives with domestic development priorities, especially in positioning Abuja as a world-class capital and a hub for international cooperation.